Hourly Natural Areas Assistant

City of Iowa City; Iowa City (IA); On-site; USD 17,000 - 24,000; Part time

Job summary

The City of Iowa City is hiring for an Hourly Natural Areas Assistant in the Parks & Recreation Department. Working up to 25 hours per week, you will assist with maintenance and restoration of natural areas across city parks.

Under supervision, you will operate hand and power tools, assist with snow removal and seasonal tasks, and interact with the public. A valid driver's license and ability to pass a background check are required.

Qualifications

• Ability to perform physically demanding and repetitive work in all weather conditions.
• Valid driver’s license with satisfactory driving record.
• Must pass criminal background check.
• Post-secondary training in natural sciences preferred.

Responsibilities

• Assist with maintenance and restoration of natural areas in parks.
• Operate hand tools, power tools, trucks and other equipment.
• Assist with raking and leaf vacuum operation for curbside pickup.
• Perform winter horticultural, custodial and construction tasks including snow removal.
• Collaborate with staff and the public as needed.

Skills

Physical stamina

Teamwork

Public interaction

Driver's license

Safety awareness

Education

Post-secondary training in natural sciences

Tools

Truck operation

Job description

Hourly Natural Areas Assistant

Parks & Recreation Department

Application deadline:Monday, October 12, 2026

Wage: $15.00 per hour

Variable daytime hours up to 25 hours per week

Hours: Monday – Friday, 7:00am – 3:30pm

Job Summary:

Under immediate supervision, assists with maintenance and restoration of natural areas in parks and other City property. Natural area maintenance tasks to include planting,invasive and nuisance species control and other general maintenance tasks. Operates hand tools, power tools, trucks and other specialized equipment. May assist with raking and operation of leaf vacuum equipment for removal of leaves for curbside pickup. Performs tasks associated with winter horticultural, custodial and construction work including snow removal from parks, trails, rights-of-way and other City property. Performs other duties and operates other equipment as required.

Minimum Education, Experience, Certification/Licensure, Other:

Ability to perform physically demanding and repetitive work under all weather conditions. Ability to operate trucks and equipment essential for daily assignments. Ability to work as a member of a team and independently with minimal supervision. Ability to positively interact with the public, coworkers, and staff. Post-secondary training or enrollment in a natural sciences or related program preferred. A valid driver’s license with a satisfactory driving record required. Must pass criminal background check.

More Information:

The City of Iowa City is an eligible employer under Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program. Please visit the PSLF website for more information.

It is the policy of the City of Iowa City to afford equal employment opportunities for all employees and potential City employees. Disability-related accommodations can be requested at 319-356-5020 or [e-mail].