Parks Maintenance Worker

Parks Maintenance Worker

Salary

$56,796.00 - $79,908.00 Annually

Location

City of Santa Cruz, CA

Job Type

Regular Full-Time

Job Number

27-022

Department

Parks & Recreation

Opening Date

10/08/2026

Closing Date

10/15/2026 5:00 PM Pacific

• Description
• Benefits
• Questions

The Position

The City of Santa Cruz is recruiting for Parks Maintenance Worker in the Parks & Recreation Department. The current vacancy is in the Wharf and Beaches Division. APPLY NOW to be considered for the current Wharf and Beaches vacancy or any Parks Maintenance Worker vacancies that may occur in the Parks and Recreation Department within the next year. Other Parks Maintenance Worker assignments may include: Golf Course, Greenways, Open Spaces, Community Parks, Neighborhood Parks, and Urban Forestry.

Current Vacancy: Wharf and Beaches Division. Parks Maintenance Workers assigned to the Wharf and Beaches are responsible for maintaining Cowell Beach, Main Beach, and the Municipal Wharf. Duties include cleaning and preparing public areas for events, removing litter and debris from the beaches, performing facility inspections, completing minor repairs, and operating power tools and beach-grooming equipment. Parks Maintenance Workers respond to constantly changing coastal conditions in support of daily operations and public events so that the Wharf and Beaches remain clean, safe, welcoming, and accessible for residents and visitors.

To learn more about the City of Santa Cruz Parks & Recreation Department, please visit: https://www.santacruzca.gov/Government/City-Departments/Parks-Recreation.

The eligible list established from this recruitment may be used to fill other Regular, Full Time, Part Time, Limited Term, and Temporary Parks Maintenance Worker vacancies in other assignments that may occur during the life of the list. The eligible list established from this recruitment is valid for up to one year from the date established unless the list is extended or abolished by the Human Resources Director.

Recruitment #27-022

APPLICATION AND SELECTION PROCESS:

The following process may be changed as deemed necessary by the Human Resources Director. The information contained within this announcement may be modified or revoked without notice and does not constitute either an expressed or implied contract.

• On Thursday, 10/15/26 recruitment will close. All application materials must be received by the Human Resources Department by 5:00 pm; postmarks are not accepted. To apply, submit:

• Application - online application only. Resumes are not accepted in lieu of filling out the application form completely. Click the Apply button to begin the online process.

• Response to supplemental questions - will be a primary tool in the evaluation of your qualifications for this position. Any work experience described here must also be included in your employment history on the main application.

• Week of 10/19 and 10/26/26: Applications will be competitively screened based on the minimum qualifications for this position. Candidates will be notified of their status in the recruitment by 11/06/26.

• Week of 11/16 and 11/23/26: Interviews will be tentatively scheduled for top candidates. The examination process will include an interview and may include a written and/or performance exercise.

Basic Function

Under supervision, the Parks Maintenance Worker performs a variety of unskilled and semi-skilled tasks in the development and maintenance of City Parks and Recreational facilities; and does related work as required. Incumbents are trained in and perform a broad range of duties in the basic grounds keeping, landscaping, construction, restoration, and maintenance trades as necessary for the section or crew to which assigned. Incumbents generally work as a member of a crew, but may be given independent assignments and may lead a small crew of temporary aides and volunteers. Incumbents are subject to call-back for after hour emergencies.

Distinguishing Characteristics

This classification is the entry and working level of the Parks Field Operations series. This classification is distinguished from the next higher classification of Senior Parks Maintenance Worker in that the incumbents of the latter classification are assigned tasks which require the application of a more advanced skill or a specialized knowledge of the techniques and tools used in park maintenance and/or which require the regular use of specialized equipment, and duties are performed without direct or continuing supervision. Senior Parks Maintenance Workers may be assigned to lead a small crew of Parks Maintenance Workers and/or temporary aides as required.

Typical Duties

(May include, but are not limited to, those duties listed below.)

• Prepares soil for planting and plants various trees, shrubs and flowers.
• Weeds flower beds and other planting areas.
• Mows, rakes and edges lawns and turfs.
• Waters plants by hand and with irrigation systems.
• Rakes, gathers, loads and hauls refuse and cut vegetation from parks and recreational facilities.
• Cleans and stocks restrooms.
• Assists in applying fertilizers.
• Assists with the installation, repair and maintenance of irrigation systems.
• Trims and prunes trees, shrubs and ground coverings.
• Loads, unloads and operates pick-up and light dump trucks to transport maintenance supplies and materials.
• Participates in digging, widening and backfilling trenches and other excavations.
• Uses general groundskeeping, carpentry and mechanical tools such as picks, shovels, hoes, rakes, shears, edgers, loppers, saws, drills, wrenches, screwdrivers and hammers. Operates landscape construction, turf maintenance, and weed removal equipment such as chain saws, concrete saws, pavement breakers, sprayers, cement mixers, aerators, compactors, rollers, small multi-purpose tractors, brush chippers, weed eaters, blowers, front end loaders, trucks, small and large riding mowers, rototillers and seeders.
• Identifies and removes invasive plant species and weeds from sensitive habitats.
• Apply erosion control measures such as digging berms, laying down jute netting or installing silt fencing or wattles.
• Maintains paths and trails in safe conditions including removing debris and obstructions, leveling uneven surfaces and identifying and repairing potential trip hazards and awkward transitions.
• Performs minor electrical repairs on park lights, switches and irrigation clocks.
• Assists with the installation, maintenance and repair of picnic tables, trash cans, barbecues, drinking fountains, playground equipment and other park items.
• Inspects parks, playgrounds and recreational areas for hazards and unsafe conditions and removes or repairs them.
• Picks up and removes trash and debris using hand operated "grab stick"; Replaces trash can liners.
• Performs basic repairs including plumbing, in park restrooms, park buildings and other park facilities.
• Performs rough carpentry and cement work in the construction, installation and repair of fences, barricades, tables and benches, signs, boxed tree supports, walkways and street medians.
• Paints fences, curbs, building interiors and exteriors, floors, and other facility structures or infrastructure equipment as needed.
• Performs light graffiti cleanup.
• Performs routine maintenance and repair of tools and equipment.
• Maintains inventory of maintenance supplies and materials; prepares material requests and keeps work logs as necessary.
• Places traffic control flags, signs and cones to direct traffic around work sites or other obstructions.
• Tactfully responds to questions and comments from the public or conveys information as appropriate.
• Constructs and installs park signs.
• Performs other related duties that may be reasonably expected as part of this classification.

If assigned to the Wharf or beach parks, in addition to the above typical duties:

• May operate or work out of a power boat, barge or personal watercraft.
• Operate beach grooming equipment and street sweeper.
• Work in and around large crowds of people.

If assigned to the swimming pool facility, in addition to the above typical duties:

• Cleans pool by brushing sides and bottom, scrubbing tile, skimming with net, and vacuuming; cleans and maintains maintenance equipment to ensure a clean environment for patrons.
• Tests and regulates chemical balance of water, adds chemicals to tanks and changes filters and tanks as needed; cleans and maintains filters, controls, pumps, and heaters to ensure healthy levels of pool sanitation.
• Cleans and sterilizes restrooms, dressing rooms, showers, and pool decks.
• Checks, cleans, and services various pool equipment (i.e., diving boards, ladders, cover, etc.) in order to enhance a safe swimming environment.
• Maintains records of pool testing results, chemical adjustments made, and maintenance performed.
• Paints swimming pool decks, equipment, and interior walls.

If assigned to the Open Spaces, in addition to the above typical duties:

• Assist with vegetation management in support of wildfire prevention and land management objectives.
• Assist with ecological restoration work including, but not limited to, grading, construction of engineered features, planting, seeding, weeding, and maintenance of areas undergoing restoration.

If assigned to the Golf Course, in addition to the above typical duties:

• Mow, edge, and trim turf on fairways, greens, and trees.
• Rake sand bunkers, pick up debris, and keep path and playing areas clean.
• Assist with basic irrigation tasks

WORKING CONDITIONS

Position requires sitting, standing, balancing or walking on uneven and slippery surfaces, reaching, twisting, turning, climbing, kneeling, bending, stooping, squatting, crouching, grasping, reaching overhead and making repetitive hand movement in the performance of daily duties. The position also requires both near and far vision when inspecting work and operating assigned equipment, plus the ability to speak and to hear. The ability to lift, carry, walk, hike off-trail, push and pull tools, equipment and supplies weighing up to 60 pounds is required. The incumbent in this position works outdoors in all weather conditions, including wet, hot, and cold. The work frequently involves work with hands in water and work on ladders or scaffolding. The incumbent may use chemicals including fertilizers, grease and oils or solvents which may expose the employee to fumes, dust, and air or skin contaminants. May be exposed to biohazards and/or hazardous chemicals. The nature of the work requires that the incumbent to use power and noise producing tools and equipment and drive motorized vehicles, commonly subjecting the incumbent to vibration. Some of these requirements may be accommodated for otherwise qualified individuals requiring and requesting such accommodations.

Minimum Qualifications

The minimum qualifications for Education, Experience, Knowledge, Skills and Abilities are the following:

Education and Experience:

• High school diploma or tested equivalent; and
• One (1) year of manual labor experience including some grounds keeping or construction.

Knowledge:

• Basic grounds keeping and/or construction and related tools and equipment

Abilities:

• Maintain safe work environment.
• Act in a courteous and diplomatic manner with members of the public.
• Work effectively alone or as a member of a crew.
• Follow oral and written instructions given in English.
• Complete simple records in English.
• Safely perform manual labor.
• Learn and effectively perform basic plumbing and rough carpentry.
• Learn the operation of power tools and equipment and the performance of a variety of semi-skilled tasks.
• Safely handle fertilizers.
• Perform basic arithmetical calculations.

If assigned to the Wharf or beach parks:

• Learn the operation of a power boat, barge or personal water craft.
• Operate beach grooming equipment
• Must be able to work in close proximity with the public under crowded conditions.

If assigned to Open Space:

• Learn how to identify sensitive wildlife and plant species and nesting birds.

Willingness:

• Work outdoors under any weather conditions.
• Perform call-back duty as required.
• Work irregular shifts, holidays and weekends.
• Wear a uniform.

Licenses and Certificates:

• Possession and continued maintenance of a valid California class C driver's license.
• Possession of a valid California Boater Card within six months of hire, is required for wharf or beach parks job assignments or qualification under an approved exemption as defined by law, such as California Harbors and Navigation Code §678.11.

DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS

• Knowledge of the basic techniques, equipment and materials used in groundskeeping, landscaping, carpentry and plumbing.
• Knowledge of the safety procedures for operating power equipment and tools and equipment.
• Knowledge of the proper procedures for safely handling and applying fertilizers.
• General knowledge of western states horticulture.
• Skill to effectively and safely operate the tools and light equipment used in landscape construction and turf maintenance.
• Skill to perform routine preventive maintenance and repair on tools and equipment.

If assigned to the Wharf or beach parks:

• Some knowledge of the ocean environment (tides, currents, wildlife, weather and swell conditions).
• Beach driving experience.

If assigned to Open Space:

• Knowledge of basic trail maintenance, invasive plant removal, and Open Space restoration practices.

Career Ladder

• Field Supervisor
• Parks Field Crew Leader
• Senior Parks Maintenance Worker
• Parks Maintenance Worker

SALARY - This classification belongs to the Service bargaining unit. The current salary range for this position is posted on the City website. See the CITY OF SANTA CRUZ SERVICE EMPLOYEE MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING on the City website for details on pay rates and practices.

UNION REPRESENTATION - This classification belongs to the Service Employees bargaining unit. All employees within this unit are represented by the Service Employees International Union.

APPOINTMENT - Any candidate selected by the appointing department may be required to pass a pre-employment medical exam administered by a City-selected physician before hire to non-sedentary positions. Prior to starting work, all newly hired employees will be fingerprinted, to check conviction history. A conviction history will not necessarily disqualify an applicant from appointment. Candidates must present documentation verifying authorization to work in the United States and take a loyalty oath as required by the State of California at the time of hire. Appointments to regular positions are subject to a six-month probationary period (unless specified as 12-month by Service Employees MOU) which is considered a part of the selection process. Probationary employees may be terminated without recourse during this period. Positions which are covered by the Department of Transportation regulations are required to submit to a pre-employment drug test and to random drug and alcohol testing.

LEAVE

Vacation - 80 hours/year up to 5 years, 120 hours/year 6-10 years, plus 8 hours for each year after 10 years up to a maximum of 160 hours/year.

Sick - 12 days/year

Holidays - up to 11 days/year

Floating Holidays - 24 hours per year - prorated for part-time

INSURANCE - (available to employee and eligible dependents)

Medical - Depends on plan selected; City generally pays 95% of the cost of coverage (pro-rated for part-time).

Dental, Vision, Employee Assistance Program - City currently pays full cost of employee and family coverage (pro-rated for part-time). Plus an additional $29.50 per pay period.

Life - City provides a $20,000 life insurance policy.

Long Term Disability - City provides a long term disability plan.

RETIREMENT

All new regular employees become members of PERS. Public Employees Retirement System (PERS) 2% @ 62 (3 year average). Prior PERS membership may affect retirement formula. Employees contribute 9.75% of their salary to PERS on a pre-tax basis. An employee is vested after 5 years of membership. No Social Security is withheld.

ADDITIONAL BENEFITS (not all inclusive)

457 Deferred Compensation Plan

Accident Protection Insurance

Bilingual Pay if required by position

Cancer and Critical Illness Insurance

Direct Deposit

Discount Bus Pass Program

Flexible Spending Plans for Health & Dependent Care

Longevity Pay (after 10 years and 15 years)

In lieu Medical Reimbursement of $200 /month (if not participating in City offered Medical Plan)

Shift Differential

Supplemental Life Insurance

Tuition Reimbursement

The information included in this listing is subject to change and does not constitute an expressed or implied contract. Leaves and most Insurance contributions are pro-rated for part-time benefited employees.

01

PLEASE READ CAREFULLY: The following supplemental questions are designed to obtain specific information regarding your work experience. Please answer each question as thoroughly as possible, as your responses will be utilized to determine if you meet the minimum qualifications for this position. For applicants who meet the minimum qualifications, these responses may also be used as an evaluation tool in later stages of the competitive process to determine which applicants will be invited to continue in the examination process. All experience described here must correspond to employers listed in the Work Experience section of your application to receive credit. Please refrain from using AI or computer-generated responses. Applicants are responsible to clearly, completely, and accurately describe their qualifications. You may attach a resume, but this cannot be used in lieu of completing an application. Failure to complete all required questions and/or providing incomplete responses may result in an incomplete application. Do not answer any question with "see resume" and if you do not have any experience and/or education in a given area, please write "N/A."

• I acknowledge that I have read and understood these instructions

02

Do you possess a high school diploma or tested equivalent?

• Yes
• No

03

This position requires possession and continued maintenance of a valid California drivers license. Please select your current license status:

• I have a valid California drivers license.
• I have a valid drivers license issued by another state. I understand that I will be required to obtain a California drivers license prior to appointment, as a condition of employment, if selected for this position.
• I do not currently possess a valid drivers license. I understand that I do not meet the requirement for this position and that this response will eliminate my application from consideration.

04

Please select how many years of manual labor experience in groundskeeping, construction, or similar manual labor work that you have. This must be able to be verified by the jobs in the work experience portion of your application in order to receive credit.

• Less than 1 year.
• At least 1 year, but less than 2 years.
• At least 2 years, but less than 3 years.
• At least 3 years, but less than 4 years.
• At least 4 years, but less than 5 years.
• 5 or more years.

05

Based on your selection above, please describe your manual labor experience in groundskeeping, construction, or similar manual labor work. Please include the employer name, duties performed, and duration of each experience. Answers to this question will help determine how you meet the minimum qualifications for the position and may make you more competitive against other candidates in this recruitment. All experience described here must relate back to the work experience portion of your application in order to receive credit. If you do not have experience, please answer "N/A."

06

This position requires the following: 1) Willingness to work outdoors under any weather conditions. 2) Willingness to perform call-back duty as required. 3) Willingness to work irregular shifts, holidays, and weekends. 4) Willingness to wear a uniform. I understand and accept these requirements. (NOTE: A "no" response to this question will eliminate your application from consideration).

• Yes
• No

07

The eligibility list established from this recruitment may be used to fill other Parks Maintenance Worker vacancies during the life of the list. Please select which Parks Maintenance Worker assignment(s) you are interested in. Please select all that apply.

• Wharf and Beaches
• Golf Course
• Greenways
• Open Spaces
• Community Parks
• Neighborhood Parks
• Urban Forestry

08

For Wharf and Beaches assignment only: The Wharf and Beaches assignment requires a valid California Boater Card within six (6) months of hire, or qualification under an approved exemption as defined by law, such as California Harbors and Navigation Code §678.11. Please select your current Boater Card status:

• I currently possess a valid California Boater Card and have attached proof to my application.
• I do not currently possess a valid California Boater Card, but agree to obtain one within six (6) months of hire.
• I do not currently possess a valid California Boater Card, and do not agree to obtain one within six (6) months of hire. I understand that I do not meet the requirement for the Wharf and Beaches assignment and will not be considered for said assignment.

09

Desirable Qualification: Please detail your knowledge and/or experience of the basic techniques, equipment, and materials used in groundskeeping, landscaping, carpentry, and plumbing, as well as any knowledge of the safety procedures for operating power equipment and tools and equipment. Please be thorough with your response as answers to this question may make you more competitive against other candidates in this recruitment. If you do not possess this knowledge or experience, please write "N/A."

10

Desirable Qualification - Wharf and Beaches Assignment Only: Please detail your knowledge and/or experience of the ocean environment, such as the tides, current, wildlife, weather, and swell conditions, as well as any beach driving experience. Please be thorough with your response as answers to this question may make you more competitive against other candidates in this recruitment. If you do not possess this knowledge or experience, or are not interested in the Wharf and Beaches assignment, please write "N/A."

11

Desirable Qualification - Open Spaces Assignment Only: Please detail your knowledge and/or experience of basic trail maintenance, invasive plant removal, and Open Space restoration practices. Please be thorough with your response as answers to this question may make you more competitive against other candidates in this recruitment. If you do not possess this knowledge or experience, or are not interested in the Open Spaces assignment, please write "N/A."

Required Question

Employer City of Santa Cruz

Address 809 Center St.

Room 6

Santa Cruz, California, 95060

Phone 831-420-5040

Website http://www.cityofsantacruz.com