Grounds Laborer-Full Time

Crystal Lake Park District; Crystal Lake (IL); On-site; USD 20,664,000 - 30,307,000; Full time

Job summary

Crystal Lake Park District is seeking a Grounds Laborer to help maintain parks year‑round, including mowing, irrigation, planting, and repairs. The role supports safe, welcoming public spaces with a hands‑on approach and regular on‑site work.

Responsibilities include turf care, equipment operation, and assisting with events. A high school diploma is required, with 2 years of grounds experience preferred; valid driver’s license and pesticide license within a year are needed, CPR/AED is a plus.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Two (2) years of landscaping or grounds maintenance experience preferred.
• Illinois Pesticide Operator’s License (or ability to obtain within one year) required or obtainable.
• CPR/AED certification preferred.

Responsibilities

• Mowing, trimming, edging, and weeding park grounds.
• Assisting with landscape installation, planting, and mulching.
• Performing general park clean-up (leaves, debris, trash removal).
• Maintaining turf areas, sports fields, and irrigation systems.
• Completing minor repairs and painting of park structures.
• Setting up and maintaining ice rinks, including snow removal and resurfacing.
• Operating and maintaining landscaping equipment.
• Safely using fertilizers, herbicides, and other materials.
• Identifying and reporting safety hazards and helping correct them.
• Assisting with special events and community programs.
• Responding to public questions and concerns in a friendly, professional manner.

Skills

Grounds maintenance

Irrigation

Equipment operation

Safety awareness

Teamwork

Communication

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Illinois Pesticide Operator’s License (or ability to obtain within one year)

Job description

Love working outdoors? Enjoy hands-on work that makes a visible impact in your community?
If you take pride in well-kept parks, fresh landscapes, and safe public spaces, we want YOU on our Grounds team!

As a Grounds Laborer, you’ll help keep our parks beautiful, safe, and welcoming year-round—from lush summer fields to winter ice rinks. No two days are the same, and your work will be seen and enjoyed by the entire community.

Schedule: M-F, 8am-4:30pm, some weekends and holidays

You’ll play a key role in maintaining and enhancing park grounds and facilities by:

• Mowing, trimming, edging, and weeding park grounds.
• Assisting with landscape installation, planting, and mulching.
• Performing general park clean-up (leaves, debris, trash removal).
• Maintaining turf areas, sports fields, and irrigation systems.
• Completing minor repairs and painting of park structures.
• Setting up and maintaining ice rinks, including snow removal and resurfacing.
• Operating and maintaining landscaping equipment (mowers, tractors, power tools).
• Safely using fertilizers, herbicides, and other materials.
• Identifying and reporting safety hazards and helping correct them.
• Assisting with special events and community programs.
• Responding to public questions and concerns in a friendly, professional manner.
• Supporting sustainability and environmental initiatives.

What We’re Looking For

Education & Experience

• High school diploma or equivalent required
• Two (2) years of landscaping or grounds maintenance experience preferred

Certifications

• Illinois Pesticide Operator’s License (or ability to obtain within one year)
• CPR/AED certification preferred

Skills & Strengths

• Knowledge of grounds maintenance, turf care, landscaping, and irrigation
• Ability to safely operate and maintain maintenance equipment
• Strong commitment to safety and quality work
• Good communication and teamwork skills
• Problem-solver who can work independently or with a crew
• Availability to work weekends and holidays as needed

Other Requirements

• Valid driver’s license and current vehicle insurance

Physical & Working Conditions

This is an active, hands-on role that includes:

• Lifting up to 50 lbs unassisted.
• Frequent standing, walking, bending, kneeling, and reaching.
• Working outdoors in all seasons and weather conditions.
• Exposure to loud equipment, chemicals, and varying temperatures.

The Crystal Lake Park District is an Equal Opportunity Employer.