Parks Crew - Field and Grounds Maintenance

The Grounds Maintenance Crew Staff is responsible for maintaining parks and recreational facilities, including but not limited to mowing, trimming, and basic landscaping. This role also involves groundskeeping of parking lots and athletic fields, managing basic irrigation systems, troubleshooting, as well as proper disposal of hazardous chemicals or materials. The position requires physical stamina, solid work ethics, attention to detail, and teamwork, with a strong focus on safety and environmental standards to create an enjoyable outdoor environment for the community.

At Pelican Park, we firmly believe in the power of unity. When we come together, as One Team, we create a safe space where every individual and effort matters. Whether you are a visitor or part of our Team, we all share in the overall success of this incredible park and programs. Let’s grow, connect, and thrive together—because we are all part of something bigger.
One Team. One Park. One Vision.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Perform daily trash pickup and safety inspections on assigned athletic fields and park grounds.
• Mow, weed eat and prep assigned athletic fields daily or as required.
• Move sport/non-sport equipment from athletic fields as per daily schedule.
• Assist in the replacing and/or repair of worn turf areas on athletic fields.
• Maintain parking lots and common grounds by mowing and weed eating.
• Assist turf operator in field top dressing, fertilizing, overseeding and aerating.
• Water, pruning, and treat trees, plants and shrubs as required
• Assisting in construction projects when necessary.
• Assist in field irrigation repairs: inspect, troubleshoot and replace parts as needed.
• Set up of basketball, volleyball, and pickleball courts, dance floor and stages as required.
• Use commercial floor cleaning machines on gym courts and foyers.
• Use electric and gas-powered hand tools.
• Use a variety of chemicals to perform duties and responsibilities and learn proper application, disposal and storage of chemicals.
• Sanitation and maintenance of gym and park restrooms including litter pickup and disposal, as required.
• Additional assignments as required and are subject to change based on Park needs.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS

• Must have a minimum of a high school diploma or G.E.D.
• Must be 21 years of age and possess a valid driver’s license.
• Park maintenance or construction experience preferred

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Requires above average experience/knowledge of the operation of mechanical equipment such as tractors, mowers, weed eaters, chainsaws, etc.
• General understanding of sports athletic fields layout, terminology and preparation.
• Ability to read, write, read a tape measure and understand verbal unsupervised directions.
• Ability to communicate effectively with people, staff, and supervisors within the District organization.
• Must possess the ability to perform effectively under pressure, managing strict and unforeseen deadlines
• Must adapt quickly, learn, and familiarize oneself with the special requirements inherent in recreation.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS

• At least 21 years of age
• Current driver’s license issued by state of residence.
• Satisfactory Motor Vehicle Report.

PHYSICAL AND DEXTERITY REQUIREMENTS (with or without accommodation)

• This position involves heavy manual labor, must be able to lift 60 lbs.
• Must physically be able to bend, twist, kneel, squat, push, pull, lift, carry, and hold possible large and/or heavy objects for extended periods of time.
• Ability to properly use hand and/or powered equipment.

SENSORY REQUIREMENTS (with or without accommodation)

• Visual Acuity: Ability to distinguish colors and identify potential hazards, plant health, and maintenance needs.
• Auditory Skills: Ability to hear equipment operation, communicate effectively with team members, and recognize environmental sounds (e.g., warning signals).
• Tactile Sensation: Ability to feel textures and temperatures when handling tools, plants, and materials.
• Smell: Awareness of scents to detect issues like plant diseases, chemical spills, or odors indicating safety concerns.
• Physical Coordination: Good hand-eye coordination for operating machinery and performing tasks like trimming and planting.

ENVIRONMENTAL HAZARDS

In this role you may be exposed to any of the following:

• Chemical Exposure: Risk of exposure to fertilizers, pesticides, and herbicides.
• Weather Conditions: Exposure to extreme temperatures, or changes in weather patterns depending on the season.
• Allergens: Contact with plants, pollen, or mold.
• Uneven Terrain: Contact with wet surfaces, or obstacles in certain park areas and/or construction.
• Insects and Wildlife: Potential encounters with bees, ticks, snakes, or other wildlife.
• Noise Exposure: Prolonged exposure to loud machinery and equipment.

DISCLAIMER STATEMENT

Recreation District #1 of St. Tammany Parish, Pelican Park is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace where all individuals are treated with respect and dignity. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability, age, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other characteristic protected by law, including the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and the ADA Amendments Act (ADAAA). We encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds and experiences and strive to create a workplace that reflects the communities we serve. Reasonable accommodation will be provided for qualified individuals with disabilities throughout the application process and employment.