Park Maintenance Worker III

Job Overview

Apply today and join our parks operations team in a vital role that performs the full range of park maintenance and landscaping duties! The ideal candidate is an experienced team player with the ability to lead a crew and perform skilled work in the maintenance and construction of City parks, landscaped areas, horticulture, and irrigation and facility maintenance. This position is a crucial role that ensures the safety and functionality of our City's landscape and recreational facilities. The recruitment timeline: The most highly qualified candidates will be invited to participate in the in-person examination process (this includes both an Qualifications Appraisal Interview and Practical Exam). The examination process is scheduled for the date below. Successful candidates will be placed on the eligible list for employment consideration for at least six months. Examination date: Thursday, August 20, 2026 Extensive City Benefits: Full Medical/Dental/Vision insurance, defined CalPERS Retirement, job security, Flexible Spending Accounts, and Wellness Incentives. The City contributes $1,700 per month towards Medical Insurance in 2026 ($1,850 per month effective January 2027).

Typical Duties

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• Leads and participates in landscape activities, including planting, pruning, mowing, fertilizing, irrigating and renovation of landscaped areas;
• Operates trucks, tractors, renovators, mowers, trenchers, rototillers, top dressers and other landscape and construction equipment;
• Mixes, applies and monitors pesticides, herbicides, soil conditioners and wetting agents;
• May be assigned to the pesticide spray crew;
• Participates in the preventive maintenance and emergency repair of recreational facilities including carpentry, painting and masonry work;
• Programs and adjusts irrigation controllers to support water conservation and efficiency goals;
• Monitors, repairs, and maintains park irrigation systems;
• Builds, installs and repairs fences, masonry walls, pavers, bleachers, benches, backstops and playground equipment;
• Maintains required records related to work activities, materials, and time;
• Ensures safe work practices and proper use of tools and equipment;
• Trains and assists assigned staff in maintenance techniques and safety procedures.

Qualification Guidelines

Education: Equivalent to graduation from high school supplemented by additional training in the care and maintenance of landscaped areas. Experience: At least three years experience in parks maintenance, landscaping, and related improvements. Experience in pesticide application is required. Special Requirements: A valid California Class C driver's license with a safe driving record, which must be maintained throughout employment in this class, is required at the time of appointment. As a condition of passing probation, a valid California Class A driver's license with a safe driving record and a California Qualified Applicator's Certificate with categories B – Landscape Maintenance and C – Right of Way is required within 12 months of employment. Employees in this position who possess a California Class A driver's license are subject to the mandatory drug and alcohol testing as required by the Department of Transportation. Applicants selected will be given a conditional offer of employment pending the outcome of a post-offer physical and drug screen. Additionally, applicants will be required to provide written authorization allowing the City to contact previous employers to determine if the applicant has previously tested positive for drugs or alcohol, or refused to submit for testing.

Additional Information

Why Work for El Cajon: The City of El Cajon is a leader among San Diego County and a wonderful location to live, work, and play. Its workplace culture empowers employees to maintain a strong work-life balance and make a positive impact in the community. The City offers exceptional benefits, retirement plans, wellness programs, and professional development opportunities. Ultimately, El Cajon is a shining example of a local government that provides exceptional municipal service with an innovative mindset.