Trades Helper I

Prince George's County Government; Maryland; On-site; USD 40,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

Prince George's County Government's Department of Public Works & Transportation is seeking a Trades Helper I, grade A8, in the Office of Storm Drain Maintenance, Forestville, MD. This entry‑level, semi‑skilled role supports skilled trades collaborators across drainage and highway projects.

Duties include constructing drainage structures, assisting masonry workers, operating vehicles with a valid license, performing routine vehicle checks, and following safety protocols.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or vocational training completed.
• Experience working as a skilled craft helper.
• Valid driver's license.
• Equivalents may be considered.

Responsibilities

• Construct drainage structures and highway components.
• Assist Masonry Mechanics as needed.
• Operate vehicles and equipment with a valid license.
• Maintain vehicles and equipment and perform interior/exterior cleaning.
• Complete pre/post vehicle checks and vehicle inspection reports.
• Follow procedures for reporting injuries, accidents and property loss.
• Be prepared as an essential employee during emergencies and snow/ice control.

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Job description

Prince George’s County Government provides a dynamic and inclusive workplace where employees can thrive, learn, and grow across its 30 diverse agencies, all dedicated to serving the County's residents with essential resources and services. Nestled just minutes away from Washington, DC, Prince George's County combines urban vibrancy with serene surroundings, offering an ideal setting to live, work, and enjoy life.

The Prince George’s County Department of Public Works & Transportation (DPW&T) is currently seeking qualified applicants to fill a Trades Helper (Trades Helper 1A) grade A8 position, in the Office of Storm Drain Maintenance.

About the Position

This is entry-level semi-skilled and manual work performed in support of other skilled crafts and tradespeople. The incumbent may be assigned to any craft area (i.e., carpentry, cabinetry, dry wall, locksmith, welder, building operations, electrician, etc.). Work is performed under the general supervision of higher-level skilled crafts and trades personnel in accordance with departmental policies, rules and regulations. Upon the satisfactory completion of the probationary period and at management's discretion, Trades Helper I's may be promoted to the full performance Trades Helper II level.

About the Agency

The Department of Public Works and Transportation (DPW&T) is responsible for nearly 2,000 miles of County-maintained roadways that range from rural to urban classifications. The transportation infrastructure includes 900 bridges, as well as shoulders, sidewalks, curbs/gutters, stormwater management facilities, driveway aprons and nearly 3,000 acres of grassy area -- all of which are maintained by staff of the Department. DPW&T’s workforce keeps the County’s various services moving by performing a myriad of activities which include removing snow and ice from County-maintained roadways, upgrading traffic signals, installing streetlights, clearing fallen trees, unclogging drainage inlets and maintaining stormwater management facilities, as well as performing roadway repairs ranging from potholes and sidewalk trip hazards to bridge repairs and resurfacing projects and more.

• Performs manual work in the accomplishment of semi-skilled duties related to the construction of drainage structures and highway components. Typical duties include: constructing or aiding in the construction of drainage structures, bridge members, box culverts, curbs & gutters, concrete driveways and steps.
• Assists Masonry Mechanics, as necessary.
• Operates/drives vehicles and equipment requiring a valid driver license.
• Maintains vehicles/equipment in good operating condition, including performing interior/exterior cleaning duties.
• Completes pre and post check on vehicles and equipment.
• Checks tires, fluid levels, lights and warning devices.
• Completes "Vehicle Inspection Report" by checking the equipment against the list of items stated on the report.
• Follows appropriate procedures for reporting personal injuries, vehicle accidents and loss/damage of County property.
• Participates as an "essential" employee in the Department's Snow and Ice Control Program and other emergency or special activities.
• Performs other tasks and duties assigned, which may not be specifically listed in the position description; however, are within the general occupational category and responsibility level typically associated with the employee's class of work.

Minimum Qualifications

• Completion of a standard high school or vocational training course.
• Experience working as a skilled craft helper.
• Possess and maintain a valid driver's license.

Any equivalent combination of relevant training, education and experience may also be considered.

Salary Range Transparency

The salary range listed in this announcement reflects the anticipated offer range for this position. Offers made within this range are based on qualifications, experience, and internal equity.

Tentative Interview Dates:

11/13/26-11/20/26. Please note that interview dates are subject to change and only selected candidates will receive confirmation and additional details.

Job Location:

Forestville. MD

Conditions of Employment:

• Meet all training and performance standards and demonstrate proficiency as required by the agency.
• Wear and use agency protective apparel and equipment in the performance of their assigned duties.
• Successfully pass preemployment checks which may include reference checks, background investigations, and drug screenings.
• Be willing and able to serve as an essential employee. Essential employees are expected to report during standard or non-standard hours as operations necessitate, or during emergencies. Essential employees are expected to report or remain at work when other County employees are granted Administrative Leave.