Municipal Groundworker

Description

Municipal Groundworker
City of Covington, KY
Public Works – Urban Forestry Division
Full-time
Salary: $58,588.14

Why Covington?

Welcome to the bold side of the river! Covington, Kentucky, is where history and progress come together. As a Municipal Groundworker, your work will directly contribute to the future of our community. We attract individuals ready to make an impact—innovators, changemakers, and problem-solvers who want to be part of something bigger. Your role in the Urban Forestry Division will help maintain the beauty and health of our public spaces, keeping the City vibrant and sustainable.

Covington is a place that celebrates its unique spirit—from our rainbow crosswalks to locally owned businesses, and warm Kentucky hospitality. It’s where timeless traditions meet future possibilities. We are a diverse city, and we believe everyone has something valuable to contribute. If you want to grow your career in an environment that values people, Covington is the place for you.

Role Overview

The Municipal Groundworker will support the Urban Forestry Division by performing essential landscaping and arboriculture tasks to maintain public spaces. Reporting to the Urban Forestry Supervisor or the City’s Urban Forester, you will be involved in tasks such as tree planting, invasive species control, pruning, and general groundskeeping activities across the City. You will operate machinery, follow safety protocols, and contribute to creating beautiful and sustainable urban spaces.

This is a dynamic, hands-on position that requires physical labor, technical skills, and a commitment to maintaining public spaces for the benefit of all residents. A successful Municipal Groundworker will be motivated, detail-oriented, and capable of working independently and as part of a team.

Key Responsibilities

• Landscaping & Tree Maintenance: Plant, stake, and care for trees, shrubs, and flowers in public areas.
• Invasive Species Control: Identify and manage invasive plant species.
• Tree Removal & Pruning: Safely remove fallen trees, limbs, and stumps; assist with trimming street and park trees.
• Equipment Operation: Operate and maintain equipment such as chainsaws, chippers, and stump grinders.
• Herbicide & Pesticide Application: Safely apply herbicides and pesticides to control weeds and pests.
• Safety Compliance: Follow safety guidelines and ensure tools and equipment are maintained properly.
• Teamwork & Communication: Collaborate with team members and supervisors to complete tasks and ensure safety standards are met.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Knowledge:
• Understanding of landscaping, tree care, and grounds maintenance techniques.
• Knowledge of safety standards, work zone guidelines, and pesticide application.
• Familiarity with basic equipment maintenance and operation.

Skills:
• Ability to identify and care for various plant species and trees.
• Strong equipment handling and mechanical aptitude.
• Good physical dexterity and stamina to perform manual labor.

Abilities:
• Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions.
• Ability to follow safety standards and instructions while maintaining public safety.
• Ability to lift and move heavy materials and tools.

Qualifications

Minimum Requirements:

• High school diploma or GED
• 3-6 months of related experience or training in landscaping, tree care, or maintenance.
• Must have a Class A Commercial Driver’s License (CDL)
• Must obtain a Kentucky pesticide applicator license upon hire.

Preferred Qualifications:
• Associate’s Degree in a related field (Landscape Horticulture, Arboriculture, etc.).
• Master Gardener certification.

Physical Demands

• Regular lifting up to 50 pounds, occasionally up to 100 pounds.
• Requires ability to kneel, crouch, climb, and stand for extended periods.
• Vision and dexterity to handle tools and equipment safely.

Work Environment

• Work performed outdoors, often in inclement weather.
• Exposure to mechanical, chemical, and safety hazards.
• High noise levels due to equipment use.

Why Join Us?

• Impactful Work: Directly contribute to the beautification and sustainability of Covington’s public spaces.
• Supportive Work Environment: Work alongside a dedicated team that values communication, respect, and continuous improvement.
• Career Growth: Opportunities for professional development and advancement within the Public Works – Urban Forestry Division.

EEO Statement

The City of Covington is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workforce that reflects the rich variety of perspectives, backgrounds, and experiences in our community. We encourage individuals from all walks of life to apply and proudly provide equal employment opportunities to all applicants, regardless of race, color, sex (including gender, sexual orientation, and gender identity), religion, national origin, age, disability, or any other protected characteristic.

Qualifications

Salary : $58,588