Parks Worker - Johnson Nature Center

Oakland County; Waterford Charter Township (MI); On-site; USD 18,000 - 26,000; Part time

Job summary

Oakland County is seeking a part-time groundskeeper to help maintain park properties, rental facilities, and landscaping for public use. You will operate lawn mowers and tractors, assist with setup and safety, and support park operations as needed.

The role requires flexibility with shifts, weekend coverage, and adherence to county procedures. Applicants must be 16–18 with a high school diploma or GED and a valid US driver’s license.

Qualifications

• Must be at least 16–18 years old with high school diploma or GED as applicable.
• Valid US driver’s license required; MI license if out-of-country holder.
• Pass the required employment medical evaluation and screening.

Responsibilities

• Perform routine groundskeeping and maintenance of park facilities.
• Operate groundskeeping equipment such as mowers, tractors and tools.
• Assist staff in patrols, information and general public assistance.
• Move and arrange park equipment and ensure safety procedures.

Skills

Customer service

Communication

Safety awareness

Teamwork

Education

High school diploma or GED

Tools

Lawn mowers

Tractors

Weed whips

Power blowers

Job description

Overview & Benefits

Oakland County is more than just a workplace. It is a place where you can make a real difference. As one of Michigan’s leading public service organizations, we are committed to strengthening communities, delivering essential services, and improving the quality of life for nearly 1.3 million residents. When you join our team, you become part of a mission-driven workforce guided by integrity, innovation, and a passion for public service. We offer competitive pay, comprehensive benefits, and the opportunity to do meaningful work that matters. For more information about Oakland County benefits and employee perks, please visit: https://www.oakgov.com/government/human-resources/benefits/new-hire

General Summary

The rate of pay is $16.04/hr. This position will report to Johnson Nature Center at Bloomfield Oaks. 3325 Franklin Road, Bloomfield Township, MI 48302.

• Employees of this classification perform routine, manual and/or clerical customer service duties, assisting higher level employees involved in the general maintenance and operations of County Park facilities.
• This position performs groundskeeping or building maintenance tasks to maintain park properties, rental facilities, and landscaping for use by the general public and private rentals.
• Operates groundskeeping equipment such as lawn mowers, tractors or equipment and vehicles for grounds maintenance tasks.
• Moves facility and recreation equipment such as picnic tables, trash cans, folding tables and chairs, etc.
• Operates and carries maintenance equipment such rakes, shovels, trimmers, commercial blowers, etc.
• Performs, as needed, duties generally performed by lower-level maintenance personnel including activities such as: grooming and cleaning of parks and related facilities, patrolling park areas, and giving information and assistance to park users.
• May also be responsible to perform the duties of other part-time seasonal employees in various classes when necessary to meet staffing needs.
• Responsible for proper work procedures and safety practices.
• May be assigned to a day, afternoon or midnight shift, during weekdays, weekends and/or holidays to meet staffing requirements and perform duties as assigned.
• Utilizes current Countywide and/or department specific software to complete assignments.

Minimum Qualifications

EXPERIENCE, TRAINING, KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES REQUIRED

• Must have passed their 18th birthday OR be at least 16 years old and a high school graduate or the State requirements for a G.E.D. certificate; OR be an emancipated minor.
• Possess a valid United States motor vehicle operator’s or chauffeur’s license.
• Out of country driver’s license holders will be required to obtain the appropriate valid State of Michigan driver’s license before the hire date.
• Pass the complete examination, including the employment medical, established for this classification.

ESSENTIAL MENTAL & PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Ability to communicate to accurately convey information.
• Ability to operate equipment as assigned to complete work duties including but not limited to computers, phones, hand tools, power tools such as weedwhips, blowers, snow throwers, motorized grounds keeping tractors and ride on mowers, golf carts, or other maintenance vehicles.

WORKING CONDITIONS

Work is performed in an outdoor environment with exposure to heat, cold and other weather elements.

IMPORTANT NOTE:

The primary purpose of this job description is to set a fair and equitable salary range for this job classification. Generally, only those key duties necessary for proper job evaluation and/or labor market analysis have been included. Other duties and responsibilities will be assigned by the supervisor.

ADDITIONAL DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS

• Reasonable knowledge of customer service interactions and ability to communicate with others.
• Some knowledge of the use of elementary hand and power tools.
• Reasonable knowledge of and ability to practice standard safety techniques.
• Reasonable ability to perform routine, repetitive, and/or manual tasks.
• Reasonable ability to maintain personal cleanliness and a presentable public appearance.
• Reasonable ability to follow standardized oral and written instructions.
• Reasonable ability to work and cooperate in a team effort, when necessary to successfully complete an assignment.

*Union* *If applicable

EEO Statement

We are committed to a policy of Equal Employment Opportunity and will not discriminate against an applicant or employee on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, national origin or ancestry, sex, gender identity, age, physical or mental disability, veteran or military status, genetic information, sexual orientation, marital status, or any other legally recognized protected basis under federal, state or local laws, regulations or ordinances.

Inclusion Statement

Oakland County is committed to welcoming applicants from all backgrounds, including those with prior convictions, as we believe in providing equal opportunities for all. We value the unique perspectives and experiences each individual brings to our team and are dedicated to fostering an inclusive, supportive workplace.

All ways, MOVING FORWARD.

At Oakland County, we offer a stable and supportive work environment, competitive salaries, comprehensive benefits, professional development, and generous education assistance program. We value the dedication and hard work of our team and our commitment to the communities we serve - it's at the heart of our success. We're always seeking new ways to enhance our workplace and foster a culture of growth, inclusion, and innovation. We believe that our people are our greatest asset, and our future depends on the diverse perspectives, experiences, and talents of our team.

Join us on our mission to keep Oakland County a vibrant place to live, work, and play.