City of Santa Cruz
Parks Maintenance Worker (Multiple Vacancies)
City of Santa Cruz, Union City, California, United States, 94587
The job posting opens on Friday, December 19, 2025, and the final filing date is Thursday, January 08, 2026 at 5:00 p.m. or after receiving 50 qualified and complete applications, whichever is first.
The current vacancies are for Parks Maintenance Worker in the Parks and Recreation Department.
The eligibility list established from this recruitment may be used to fill other Parks Maintenance Worker vacancies in other assignments during the life of the list. The eligibility list established from this recruitment is valid for up to one year from the date established unless the list is extended or abolished by the Human Resources Director.
The City of Santa Cruz Parks & Recreation Department is seeking Parks Maintenance Workers for the Golf Course assignment. Play a key role in maintaining the City’s golf course and parklands to create an outstanding golf experience for our community.
APPLY NOW to be considered for the current Golf Course vacancies or any Parks Maintenance Worker vacancies that may occur in the Parks and Recreation Department within the next year.
For more information about the City of Santa Cruz Parks and Recreation Department: https://www.santacruzca.gov/Government/City-Departments/Parks-Recreation.
Recruitment #26‑037
Application and Selection Process The following process may be changed as deemed necessary by the Human Resources Director. The information contained within this announcement may be modified or revoked without notice and does not constitute either an expressed or implied contract.
On Thursday, 01/08/26 recruitment will close or after receiving 50 qualified and complete applications, whichever is first. All application materials must be received by the Human Resources Department by 5:00 pm; postmarks are not accepted. To apply, submit: online application only. Resumes are not accepted in lieu of completing the application form.
Response to supplemental questions will be a primary tool in the evaluation of your qualifications for this position. Any work experience described here must also be included in your employment history on the main application.
Week of 01/12 and 01/19/26: Applications will be competitively screened based on the minimum qualifications for this position. Candidates will be notified of their status in the recruitment by 01/30/26.
Week of 02/02 and/or 02/09/26: Interviews will be tentatively scheduled for top candidates. The examination process will include an interview and may include a written and/or performance exercise.
Basic Function Under supervision, the Parks Maintenance Worker performs a variety of unskilled and semi‑skilled tasks in the development and maintenance of City Parks and Recreational facilities; and does related work as required. Incumbents are trained in and perform a broad range of duties in the basic grounds keeping, landscaping, construction, restoration, and maintenance trades as necessary for the section or crew to which assigned. Incumbents generally work as a member of a crew, but may be given independent assignments and may lead a small crew of temporary aides and volunteers. Incumbents are subject to call‑back for after‑hour emergencies.
Distinguishing Characteristics This classification is the entry and working level of the Parks Field Operations series. It is distinguished from the Senior Parks Maintenance Worker in that the latter performs tasks requiring more advanced skill or specialized knowledge of techniques and tools used in park maintenance and may work without direct or continuing supervision. Senior Parks Maintenance Workers may lead a small crew of Parks Maintenance Workers and/or temporary aides.
Prepares soil for planting and plants various trees, shrubs and flowers.
Weeds flower beds and other planting areas.
Mows, rakes and edges lawns and turfs.
Waters plants by hand and with irrigation systems.
Rakes, gathers, loads and hauls refuse and cut vegetation from parks and recreational facilities.
Cleans and stocks restrooms.
Assists in applying fertilizers.
Assists with the installation, repair and maintenance of irrigation systems.
Trims and prunes trees, shrubs and ground coverings.
Loads, unloads and operates pick‑up and light dump trucks to transport maintenance supplies and materials.
Participates in digging, widening and backfilling trenches and other excavations.
Uses general groundskeeping, carpentry and mechanical tools such as picks, shovels, hoes, rakes, shears, edgers, loppers, saws, drills, wrenches, screwdrivers and hammers. Operates landscape construction, turf maintenance, and weed removal equipment such as chainsaws, concrete saws, pavement breakers, sprayers, cement mixers, aerators, compactors, rollers, small multi‑purpose tractors, brush chippers, weed eaters, blowers, front‑end loaders, trucks, small and large riding mowers, rototillers and seeders.
Identifies and removes invasive plant species and weeds from sensitive habitats.
Applies erosion control measures such as digging berms, laying down jute netting or installing silt fencing or wattles.
Maintains paths and trails in safe conditions including removing debris and obstructions, leveling uneven surfaces and identifying and repairing potential trip hazards and awkward transitions.
Performs minor electrical repairs on park lights, switches and irrigation clocks.
Assists with the installation, maintenance and repair of picnic tables, trash cans, barbecues, drinking fountains, playground equipment and other park items.
Inspects parks, playgrounds and recreational areas for hazards and unsafe conditions and removes or repairs them.
Picks up and removes trash and debris using hand‑operated grab stick; replaces trash can liners.
Performs basic repairs including plumbing in park restrooms, park buildings and other park facilities.
Performs rough carpentry and cement work in the construction, installation and repair of fences, barricades, tables and benches, signs, boxed tree supports, walkways and street medians.
Paints fences, curbs, building interiors and exteriors, floors, and other facility structures or infrastructure equipment as needed.
Performs light graffiti cleanup.
Performs routine maintenance and repair of tools and equipment.
Maintains inventory of maintenance supplies and materials; prepares material requests and keeps work logs as necessary.
Places traffic control flags, signs and cones to direct traffic around work sites or other obstructions.
Tactfully responds to questions and comments from the public or conveys information as appropriate.
Constructs and installs park signs.
Performs other related duties that may be reasonably expected as part of this classification.
Additional Duties by Assignment If assigned to the Wharf or beach parks:
May operate or work out of a power boat, barge or personal watercraft.
Operate beach grooming equipment and street sweeper.
Work in and around large crowds of people.
If assigned to the swimming pool facility:
Cleans pool by brushing sides and bottom, scrubbing tile, skimming with net, and vacuuming; cleans and maintains maintenance equipment to ensure a clean environment for patrons.
Tests and regulates chemical balance of water, adds chemicals to tanks and changes filters and tanks as needed; cleans and maintains filters, controls, pumps and heaters to ensure healthy levels of pool sanitation.
Cleans and sterilizes restrooms, dressing rooms, showers and pool decks.
Checks, cleans and services various pool equipment (i.e., diving boards, ladders, cover, etc.) to enhance a safe swimming environment.
Maintains records of pool testing results, chemical adjustments made and maintenance performed.
Paints swimming pool decks, equipment and interior walls.
If assigned to the Open Spaces:
Assist with vegetation management in support of wildfire prevention and land management objectives.
Assist with ecological restoration work including, but not limited to, grading, construction of engineered features, planting, seeding, weeding and maintenance of areas undergoing restoration.
If assigned to the Golf Course:
Mow, edge, and trim turf on fairways, greens and trees.
Rake sand bunkers, pick up debris and keep path and playing areas clean.
Assist with basic irrigation tasks.
Working Conditions Position requires sitting, standing, balancing or walking on uneven and slippery surfaces, reaching, twisting, turning, climbing, kneeling, bending, stooping, squatting, crouching, grasping, reaching overhead and making repetitive hand movement in the performance of daily duties. The position also requires both near and far vision when inspecting work and operating assigned equipment, plus the ability to speak and to hear. The ability to lift, carry, walk, hike off‑trail, push and pull tools, equipment and supplies weighing up to 60 pounds is required. The incumbent in this position works outdoors in all weather conditions, including wet, hot and cold. The work frequently involves work with hands in water and work on ladders or scaffolding. The incumbent may use chemicals including fertilizers, grease and oils or solvents which may expose the employee to fumes, dust and air or skin contaminants. May be exposed to biohazards and/or hazardous chemicals. The nature of the work requires that the incumbent use power and noise producing tools and equipment and drive motorized vehicles, commonly subjecting the incumbent to vibration. Some of these requirements may be accommodated for otherwise qualified individuals requiring and requesting such accommodations.
Minimum Qualifications Education and Experience
High school diploma or tested equivalent; and
One (1) year of manual labor experience including some grounds keeping or construction.
Knowledge
Basic grounds keeping and/or construction and related tools and equipment.
Abilities
Maintain safe work environment.
Act in a courteous and diplomatic manner with members of the public.
Work effectively alone or as a member of a crew.
Follow oral and written instructions given in English.
Complete simple records in English.
Safely perform manual labor.
Learn and effectively perform basic plumbing and rough carpentry.
Learn the operation of power tools and equipment and the performance of a variety of semi‑skilled tasks.
Safely handle fertilizers.
Perform basic arithmetical calculations.
Additional Requirements by Assignment If assigned to the Wharf or beach parks:
Learn the operation of a power boat, barge or personal water craft.
Operate beach grooming equipment.
Must be able to work in close proximity with the public under crowded conditions.
If assigned to Open Space:
Learn how to identify sensitive wildlife and plant species and nesting birds.
Willingness
Work outdoors under any weather conditions.
Perform call‑back duty as required.
Work irregular shifts, holidays and weekends.
Wear a uniform.
Licenses and Certificates
Possession and continued maintenance of a valid California class C driver’s license.
Possession of a valid California Boater Card within six months of hire is required for wharf or beach parks job assignments or qualification under an approved exemption as defined by law, such as California Harbors and Navigation Code §678.11.
Desirable Qualifications
Knowledge of the basic techniques, equipment and materials used in groundskeeping, landscaping, carpentry and plumbing.
Knowledge of the safety procedures for operating power equipment and tools and equipment.
Knowledge of the proper procedures for safely handling and applying fertilizers.
General knowledge of western states' horticulture.
Skill to effectively and safely operate the tools and light equipment used in landscape construction and turf maintenance.
Skill to perform routine preventive maintenance and repair on tools and equipment.
If assigned to the Wharf or beach parks:
Some knowledge of the ocean environment (tides, currents, wildlife, weather and swell conditions).
Beach driving experience.
If assigned to Open Space:
Knowledge of basic trail maintenance, invasive plant removal and Open Space restoration practices.
Field Supervisor
Parks Field Crew Leader
Senior Parks Maintenance Worker
Parks Maintenance Worker
#J-18808-Ljbffr
The current vacancies are for Parks Maintenance Worker in the Parks and Recreation Department.
The eligibility list established from this recruitment may be used to fill other Parks Maintenance Worker vacancies in other assignments during the life of the list. The eligibility list established from this recruitment is valid for up to one year from the date established unless the list is extended or abolished by the Human Resources Director.
The City of Santa Cruz Parks & Recreation Department is seeking Parks Maintenance Workers for the Golf Course assignment. Play a key role in maintaining the City’s golf course and parklands to create an outstanding golf experience for our community.
APPLY NOW to be considered for the current Golf Course vacancies or any Parks Maintenance Worker vacancies that may occur in the Parks and Recreation Department within the next year.
For more information about the City of Santa Cruz Parks and Recreation Department: https://www.santacruzca.gov/Government/City-Departments/Parks-Recreation.
Recruitment #26‑037
Application and Selection Process The following process may be changed as deemed necessary by the Human Resources Director. The information contained within this announcement may be modified or revoked without notice and does not constitute either an expressed or implied contract.
On Thursday, 01/08/26 recruitment will close or after receiving 50 qualified and complete applications, whichever is first. All application materials must be received by the Human Resources Department by 5:00 pm; postmarks are not accepted. To apply, submit: online application only. Resumes are not accepted in lieu of completing the application form.
Response to supplemental questions will be a primary tool in the evaluation of your qualifications for this position. Any work experience described here must also be included in your employment history on the main application.
Week of 01/12 and 01/19/26: Applications will be competitively screened based on the minimum qualifications for this position. Candidates will be notified of their status in the recruitment by 01/30/26.
Week of 02/02 and/or 02/09/26: Interviews will be tentatively scheduled for top candidates. The examination process will include an interview and may include a written and/or performance exercise.
Basic Function Under supervision, the Parks Maintenance Worker performs a variety of unskilled and semi‑skilled tasks in the development and maintenance of City Parks and Recreational facilities; and does related work as required. Incumbents are trained in and perform a broad range of duties in the basic grounds keeping, landscaping, construction, restoration, and maintenance trades as necessary for the section or crew to which assigned. Incumbents generally work as a member of a crew, but may be given independent assignments and may lead a small crew of temporary aides and volunteers. Incumbents are subject to call‑back for after‑hour emergencies.
Distinguishing Characteristics This classification is the entry and working level of the Parks Field Operations series. It is distinguished from the Senior Parks Maintenance Worker in that the latter performs tasks requiring more advanced skill or specialized knowledge of techniques and tools used in park maintenance and may work without direct or continuing supervision. Senior Parks Maintenance Workers may lead a small crew of Parks Maintenance Workers and/or temporary aides.
Prepares soil for planting and plants various trees, shrubs and flowers.
Weeds flower beds and other planting areas.
Mows, rakes and edges lawns and turfs.
Waters plants by hand and with irrigation systems.
Rakes, gathers, loads and hauls refuse and cut vegetation from parks and recreational facilities.
Cleans and stocks restrooms.
Assists in applying fertilizers.
Assists with the installation, repair and maintenance of irrigation systems.
Trims and prunes trees, shrubs and ground coverings.
Loads, unloads and operates pick‑up and light dump trucks to transport maintenance supplies and materials.
Participates in digging, widening and backfilling trenches and other excavations.
Uses general groundskeeping, carpentry and mechanical tools such as picks, shovels, hoes, rakes, shears, edgers, loppers, saws, drills, wrenches, screwdrivers and hammers. Operates landscape construction, turf maintenance, and weed removal equipment such as chainsaws, concrete saws, pavement breakers, sprayers, cement mixers, aerators, compactors, rollers, small multi‑purpose tractors, brush chippers, weed eaters, blowers, front‑end loaders, trucks, small and large riding mowers, rototillers and seeders.
Identifies and removes invasive plant species and weeds from sensitive habitats.
Applies erosion control measures such as digging berms, laying down jute netting or installing silt fencing or wattles.
Maintains paths and trails in safe conditions including removing debris and obstructions, leveling uneven surfaces and identifying and repairing potential trip hazards and awkward transitions.
Performs minor electrical repairs on park lights, switches and irrigation clocks.
Assists with the installation, maintenance and repair of picnic tables, trash cans, barbecues, drinking fountains, playground equipment and other park items.
Inspects parks, playgrounds and recreational areas for hazards and unsafe conditions and removes or repairs them.
Picks up and removes trash and debris using hand‑operated grab stick; replaces trash can liners.
Performs basic repairs including plumbing in park restrooms, park buildings and other park facilities.
Performs rough carpentry and cement work in the construction, installation and repair of fences, barricades, tables and benches, signs, boxed tree supports, walkways and street medians.
Paints fences, curbs, building interiors and exteriors, floors, and other facility structures or infrastructure equipment as needed.
Performs light graffiti cleanup.
Performs routine maintenance and repair of tools and equipment.
Maintains inventory of maintenance supplies and materials; prepares material requests and keeps work logs as necessary.
Places traffic control flags, signs and cones to direct traffic around work sites or other obstructions.
Tactfully responds to questions and comments from the public or conveys information as appropriate.
Constructs and installs park signs.
Performs other related duties that may be reasonably expected as part of this classification.
Additional Duties by Assignment If assigned to the Wharf or beach parks:
May operate or work out of a power boat, barge or personal watercraft.
Operate beach grooming equipment and street sweeper.
Work in and around large crowds of people.
If assigned to the swimming pool facility:
Cleans pool by brushing sides and bottom, scrubbing tile, skimming with net, and vacuuming; cleans and maintains maintenance equipment to ensure a clean environment for patrons.
Tests and regulates chemical balance of water, adds chemicals to tanks and changes filters and tanks as needed; cleans and maintains filters, controls, pumps and heaters to ensure healthy levels of pool sanitation.
Cleans and sterilizes restrooms, dressing rooms, showers and pool decks.
Checks, cleans and services various pool equipment (i.e., diving boards, ladders, cover, etc.) to enhance a safe swimming environment.
Maintains records of pool testing results, chemical adjustments made and maintenance performed.
Paints swimming pool decks, equipment and interior walls.
If assigned to the Open Spaces:
Assist with vegetation management in support of wildfire prevention and land management objectives.
Assist with ecological restoration work including, but not limited to, grading, construction of engineered features, planting, seeding, weeding and maintenance of areas undergoing restoration.
If assigned to the Golf Course:
Mow, edge, and trim turf on fairways, greens and trees.
Rake sand bunkers, pick up debris and keep path and playing areas clean.
Assist with basic irrigation tasks.
Working Conditions Position requires sitting, standing, balancing or walking on uneven and slippery surfaces, reaching, twisting, turning, climbing, kneeling, bending, stooping, squatting, crouching, grasping, reaching overhead and making repetitive hand movement in the performance of daily duties. The position also requires both near and far vision when inspecting work and operating assigned equipment, plus the ability to speak and to hear. The ability to lift, carry, walk, hike off‑trail, push and pull tools, equipment and supplies weighing up to 60 pounds is required. The incumbent in this position works outdoors in all weather conditions, including wet, hot and cold. The work frequently involves work with hands in water and work on ladders or scaffolding. The incumbent may use chemicals including fertilizers, grease and oils or solvents which may expose the employee to fumes, dust and air or skin contaminants. May be exposed to biohazards and/or hazardous chemicals. The nature of the work requires that the incumbent use power and noise producing tools and equipment and drive motorized vehicles, commonly subjecting the incumbent to vibration. Some of these requirements may be accommodated for otherwise qualified individuals requiring and requesting such accommodations.
Minimum Qualifications Education and Experience
High school diploma or tested equivalent; and
One (1) year of manual labor experience including some grounds keeping or construction.
Knowledge
Basic grounds keeping and/or construction and related tools and equipment.
Abilities
Maintain safe work environment.
Act in a courteous and diplomatic manner with members of the public.
Work effectively alone or as a member of a crew.
Follow oral and written instructions given in English.
Complete simple records in English.
Safely perform manual labor.
Learn and effectively perform basic plumbing and rough carpentry.
Learn the operation of power tools and equipment and the performance of a variety of semi‑skilled tasks.
Safely handle fertilizers.
Perform basic arithmetical calculations.
Additional Requirements by Assignment If assigned to the Wharf or beach parks:
Learn the operation of a power boat, barge or personal water craft.
Operate beach grooming equipment.
Must be able to work in close proximity with the public under crowded conditions.
If assigned to Open Space:
Learn how to identify sensitive wildlife and plant species and nesting birds.
Willingness
Work outdoors under any weather conditions.
Perform call‑back duty as required.
Work irregular shifts, holidays and weekends.
Wear a uniform.
Licenses and Certificates
Possession and continued maintenance of a valid California class C driver’s license.
Possession of a valid California Boater Card within six months of hire is required for wharf or beach parks job assignments or qualification under an approved exemption as defined by law, such as California Harbors and Navigation Code §678.11.
Desirable Qualifications
Knowledge of the basic techniques, equipment and materials used in groundskeeping, landscaping, carpentry and plumbing.
Knowledge of the safety procedures for operating power equipment and tools and equipment.
Knowledge of the proper procedures for safely handling and applying fertilizers.
General knowledge of western states' horticulture.
Skill to effectively and safely operate the tools and light equipment used in landscape construction and turf maintenance.
Skill to perform routine preventive maintenance and repair on tools and equipment.
If assigned to the Wharf or beach parks:
Some knowledge of the ocean environment (tides, currents, wildlife, weather and swell conditions).
Beach driving experience.
If assigned to Open Space:
Knowledge of basic trail maintenance, invasive plant removal and Open Space restoration practices.
Field Supervisor
Parks Field Crew Leader
Senior Parks Maintenance Worker
Parks Maintenance Worker
#J-18808-Ljbffr