Entry Level Construction Jobs in Ripon, CA (NOW HIRING)

Description The City of Livermore is accepting applications for the position of Groundskeeper I. For more information, please refer to the job announcement. DEFINITION Under general supervision, performs a variety of semi-skilled general grounds maintenance work; operates equipment pertaining to tasks; and performs other duties as assigned.

DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS This is the entry level class in the Groundskeeper series. The incumbent is expected to perform hard physical labor in the performance of duties, work independently as needed, and to use good judgment in making decisions. SUPERVISION RECEIVED General supervision is provided by a Supervising Groundskeeper and the Public Works Supervisor -Landscape Maintenance.

May receive direction from a Landscape Maintenance Specialist or a crew leader. SUPERVISION EXERCISED None. Examples of Important and Essential Functions Landscape Care and Maintenance Plants, cultivates, fertilizes, waters, sprays, and propagates plants, shrubs, trees, hedges, ground covers, and flowers; seeds or sods new lawns; fertilizes, maintains, and waters lawns; rakes, hoes, weeds, and performs general grounds maintenance and laboring tasks; spades and fertilizes flower beds and sets out plants; aids in keeping the grounds of public buildings clean, orderly, and free from pests, insects, diseases, and fungi; trims and prunes hedges, trees, shrubs, and stakes trees; and may provide direction to temporary employees and contract workers.

Equipment Care and Use Maintains hand and power tools and equipment and keeps in good repair; assists in the repair, maintenance, and installation of irrigation systems; operates mowing equipment, and other related equipment; and drives trucks including small street sweepers and other essential vehicles. Job Related and Essential Qualifications Demonstrated Knowledge of: Tools, materials, and equipment used in City maintenance and construction tasks; approved methods of planting, propagating, pruning, and maintaining hedges, trees, shrubs, lawns, and flowers; use and maintenance of gardening materials, tools, and equipment; common plant diseases, insects, and pests and approved methods and materials used for eradication and control; trees, plants, and weeds identification; safe methods of mixing and using chemicals and sprays; and safety procedures relating to the work environment and equipment. Demonstrated Skills to: Read, write, understand, and follow written and oral directions; work cooperatively with others; perform a variety of semi-skilled tasks in ground and garden maintenance; read and interpret pesticide labels, Safety Data Sheets (SDS), PCA written recommendations, and blueprint schematic drawings; apply pesticides in accordance with DRP Regulations; prune and plant trees in accordance with ISA standards; perform minor mechanical repairs; safely operate hand and power tools and equipment; communicate courteously and tactfully with the public; make quick decisions in emergencies; demonstrate dependability and good judgment; maintain a clean working area; and exemplify an enthusiastic, resourceful, and effective customer service attitude with those contacted in the course of work.

Ability to: Learn and apply the City's policies, practices, and protocols; establish and maintain cooperative and effective working relationships; and meet the public with courtesy and tact. Experience, Education, and Training Guidelines: Any combination of experience, education, and training that would provide the best qualified candidates. A typical way to obtain the knowledge, skills, and abilities would be: Experience: One year full-time paid experience in general grounds maintenance work.

Education: Equivalent to graduation of high school. Training: Any recent training such as academic courses and certification programs which are relevant to this job classification. License: Possession of a valid California Driver's License and a satisfactory driving record as determined by the City.

Possession of a Commercial Class B driver's license is desirable. Certification: Possession of a Department of Pesticide Regulation's Applicator Certificate and International Society of Arboriculture Certificate are desirable. Other Requirements: Willingness and ability to work scheduled and emergency overtime; be available on call as required; wear a uniform and appropriate safety equipment; work outdoors under adverse conditions such as at night, at heights of 70 - 80 feet in the air, in confined and awkward spaces, on slopes, in heavy traffic, and in all weather conditions; and attend workshops and classes during work and non work hours as required.

Special Requirements: Essential duties require the mental and/or physical ability to read fine print on labels and in manuals, maps, diagrams and blueprints; drive vehicles; work with chemicals and pesticides used in the course of work; converse on the telephone, 2-way radio, and in person over the noise of machinery and traffic; detect subtle noises such as in machinery and running water; work on and around ladders and aerial lift trucks; crawl, bend, stoop, kneel, reach, stretch, and climb; safely manipulate tools and equipment; strength to safely lift and maneuver equipment and related supplies such as fertilizer bags, cement bags, tree grates, wire spools, and jackhammers weighing up to 90 pounds; and stand for long periods of time. Additional Information The City of Livermore is an equal opportunity employer and supports workforce diversity.