Milwaukee Recreation is hiring new seasonal groundskeepers to provide basic upkeep to outdoor recreation facilities in the City of Milwaukee. Apply today at https://candidate.milwaukee.k12.wi.us.
Groundskeepers will be asked to maintain and prepare the athletic fields and courts by fertilizing, aerating, pruning trees, cutting grass, and marking fields. The job also includes: daily inspection and cleaning of recreation site field houses and grounds; inspection and minor repair to tot lot equipment, bleacher and player bench boards, tennis nets, wind screens, and game cabinets; operation of various lawn and garden equipment and small trucks; and other related duties as assigned.
No experience is required, but a familiarity with lawn equipment – including mowers and trimmers – and the ability to drive trucks with trailers is preferred. This is a highly physical work environment that is centered on working outdoors during the spring and summer months.
Staff may work up to 40 hours per week; the starting rate is $16 per hour. Groundskeepers report to the Recreation Facilities Supervisor. Interviews will begin in January.
“This [is] an excellent seasonal job,” James Hotson, who has worked for Milwaukee Recreation for 41 years, said. “The pay is pretty good for a seasonal job [and] working outside is very enjoyable. I think it’s a good experience and you can learn different skills.”
Candidates should be able to interpret maintenance and repair manuals, follow verbal and written instructions, understand basic math, and work independently.
Groundskeeping also brings a sense of pride and accomplishment after executing a well-manicured field.
“I like seeing a finished product come together and also seeing other people enjoy it later on during the day,” Willie Mitchell, III, said.
Applicants must be at least 18 years old or a high school graduate at the time of application, and should be in good physical condition. Seasonal groundskeepers must be able to lift more than 50 pounds for long periods of time.
Candidates must possess a valid State of Wisconsin motor vehicle operators license at time of appointment and throughout employment. Candidates must have a good driving record. Driving records will be checked prior to job offer. Persons hired by the Milwaukee Public Schools must have an insured personal vehicle for use on the job. Car allowance is provided. Candidates must pass a pre-employment drug test and sign a release authorizing the City to receive the results of any drug and alcohol tests conducted by previous employers during the past two years if those tests were required by the U.S. Department of Transportation.