PARKS & FACILITIES YOUTH APPRENTICESHIP

Description

Summary:

Provides hands-on experience in skilled trades related to construction, repair, and park facility maintenance including carpentry, plumbing, electrical work, and general repairs. Develops practical skills while assisting in the upkeep and improvement of park buildings, recreational structures, and infrastructure. This opportunity begins in June after the student’s junior year and concludes in August the following year with a varied work schedule: 12-30 hrs/week in summer and 12-20 hrs/week during school year which includes working evenings, weekends, and holidays from time to time.

Immediate Supervisor:     report directly to the Superintendent of Parks and Facilities

Supervision Exercised:    None

Essential Functions:

• Responsibilities include lawn care, planting, pruning, and general site upkeep.
• Practice safety protocols with personal protective equipment: equipment operation and storage of equipment (lawnmowers, trimmers, and leaf blowers), and weather hazards.
• Operate and maintain tools and equipment used in construction and facility upkeep.
• Follow safety protocols while working with power tools, heavy equipment, and hazardous materials.
• Learn and practice
  • playground and athletic field maintenance
  • pest and disease management
  • proper watering, fertilization, and pruning techniques
  • basics of landscape design (layout, functionality, aesthetics).
  • plant selection for specific climates, seasons and purposes.
  • planting and transplanting techniques.
  • mulch application, edging, and irrigation systems.
• Assist with repairs and maintenance of park buildings, shelters, and other structures.
• Learn swimming pool seasonal opening and closing procedures and maintenance 
• Learn basic carpentry, plumbing, electrical, and HVAC maintenance tasks.
• Support the installation and repair of park infrastructure, such as fences, pathways, and signage.
• Participate in safety trainings
• Assist with set ups and take downs for District special events
• Assist with inspections of facilities to identify maintenance and repair needs.

Duties vary based upon need and season:

1. Fall: Leaf removal, prepping gardens for winter.
2. Winter: Snow removal, caring for dormant plants.
3. Spring: Planting, aeration, and dethatching.
4. Summer: Water conservation techniques, pest control.

FINAL PROJECT: Design and execute a facility or trades project. OR Design and execute a landscape project for a designated area.

Psychological Considerations:

Managing workload expectations to prevent burnout, stress, or frustration

Physiological Considerations:

Tasks involve lifting, bending, standing for long periods, and working with tools. Use proper body mechanics, lifting techniques, and PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) use. Take regular breaks, especially in extreme weather conditions. Use proper safety gear while operating tools and machinery.

Environmental Considerations:

Working outdoors in heat, cold, rain, or wind; hazards with uneven terrain, moving equipment, and slippery surfaces, handling paints, adhesives, cleaning supplies, and other chemicals while working around loud machinery and potential airborne debris, proper ventilation in enclosed spaces. Awareness of potential hazards, such as insects, allergens, or toxic plants.

Cognitive Considerations:

Must troubleshoot irrigation, plant health, and soil conditions. Pay attention to detail in pruning, planting, and maintaining landscapes. Understand plant life cycles, seasonal maintenance, and sustainability practices. Will diagnose and repair facility issues efficiently. Use precision in measuring, cutting, and assembling materials. Will gain understanding building codes, safety regulations, and trade techniques.

Qualifications

Qualifications:

• Completed Junior year with School District 214 and related Career Pathway coursework
• Valid Illinois driver’s license
• CPR/AED Certification within 60 days of hire date.
• Be on track for high school graduation and college and/or career ready