Park Leader

POSITION: Park Leader

DEPARTMENT: Parks

LOCATION: Anderson Trail County Park

WORK SCHEDULE: M-F, 7:00 AM – 3:30 PM

JOB CATEGORY: Full-Time, Non-Exempt

SALARY: $20.26 per hour

STATUS: Open Until Filled

To perform this position successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential function. The requirements listed in this document are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or abilities required. St. Joseph County provides reasonable accommodations to qualified employees and applicants with known disabilities who require accommodation to complete the application process or perform essential functions of the job unless those accommodations would present an undue hardship.

Incumbent serves as Park Leader for the St. Joseph County Parks & Recreation Department, responsible for overseeing general upkeep and maintenance of Park facilities and grounds (Anderson Trail, Bendix Woods, Ferrettie/Baugo Creek, St. Patrick's, Spicer Lake, etc.), as assigned.

Benefits

Affordable Medical, Dental, and Vision Plans

Paid Vacation, Personal, and Sick Days

Employer Paid Life Insurance

Short-Term and Long-Term Disability (STD/LTD)

Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) for healthcare and dependent care

Gym Membership Discounts

Employer-Funded Public Employees' Retirement Fund (PERF)

Access to additional voluntary benefits and resources

Responsibilities

Oversee and participate in the maintenance, repair, and upkeep of park grounds, buildings, trails, roads, and recreational facilities.

Perform and supervise mowing, landscaping, tree trimming, snow removal, painting, carpentry, plumbing, electrical repairs, and general maintenance.

Identify and properly treat/remove invasive species.

Ensure parks remain safe and accessible during all seasons.

Supervise maintenance staff and seasonal employees.

Assign daily work tasks and priorities.

Provide training on maintenance techniques, equipment operation, and safety procedures.

Monitor work quality and provide coaching and performance feedback.

Participate in hiring and onboarding efforts as needed.

Lead and assist with the construction of park facilities, shelters, trails, signs, and other infrastructure projects

Coordinate resources and monitor project progress to ensure successful completion.

Safely operate a variety of equipment including tractors, mowers, dump trucks, snowplows, chainsaws, chippers, backhoes, and other maintenance tools.

Perform routine inspections and preventative maintenance on vehicles and equipment.

Maintain records and prepare reports related to facilities, inventory, projects, and incidents.

Assist with budget planning and provide recommendations for equipment, supplies, and facility improvements.

Respond to weather-related emergencies, snow events, and alarm calls as needed.

Assist with maintenance and operations at additional park properties when assigned.

Provides excellent customer service by assisting park visitors, answering questions, promoting park rules and safety guidelines, addressing concerns, and helping create a welcoming, positive, and enjoyable experience for all guests.

Performs related duties as assigned.

Reports directly to the Operations Manager.

Qualifications

High school diploma or GED.

Minimum of four (4) years of supervisory experience or an equivalent combination of education and experience in facilities maintenance, building trades, or park operations.

Experience in one or more skilled trades, including carpentry, plumbing, electrical, HVAC, or construction.

Valid driver's license with a safe driving record.

Must be at least 21 years of age.

Knowledge of grounds maintenance, facility maintenance, and repair practices.

Ability to safely operate and maintain a variety of vehicles, equipment, and tools.

Strong leadership, communication, and team-building skills.

Ability to prioritize projects, maintain records, and prepare reports.

Working knowledge of OSHA safety standards and safe work practices.

Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Ability to communicate professionally with staff, contractors, and the public.

Ability to handle confidential information appropriately.

Physical Requirements

This position requires regular physical labor and outdoor work in all weather conditions. Employees must be able to lift up to 50 pounds, work on uneven terrain, operate hand and power tools, and perform duties that involve walking, standing, bending, kneeling, climbing, and reaching for extended periods. Work may involve exposure to heavy equipment, noise, dust, chemicals, and varying weather conditions.

Work is performed both indoors and outdoors and may involve exposure to heavy equipment and machinery, traffic, noise, dust, dirt, fumes, chemicals, wet or slippery conditions, and extreme temperatures. Employees are required to follow all safety procedures and use appropriate protective equipment when necessary.