Entry Level Ranch Hand Jobs in Denver, CO (NOW HIRING)

Ken-Caryl Ranch Metro District Parks Horticulture Technician (I/II/III) Opening!
Job Title: Parks Horticulture Technician I, II, or III
Status: Non-Exempt
Classification: Regular Full-Time
Department: Parks
Reports to: Parks Supervisor
Hiring Range:
• Tech I: $21.00 - $23.50/hour
• Tech II: $23.65 - $26.50/hour
• Tech III: $27.50 - $31.25/hour
(placement depends on experience, certifications, and qualifications)
Join Our Parks Team!
Are you passionate about maintaining healthy landscapes and efficient irrigation systems? Whether you are beginning your career in horticulture or bring prior experience, this position offers the opportunity to contribute to the maintenance of parks, open spaces, and athletic fields while developing your skills and certifications.
Why Join Us?
We offer a rewarding career with excellent benefits that support your well-being, financial security, and work-life balance:
• Paid Time Off: 168 hours per year, accrued on a bi-weekly basis
• Holiday Pay: 80 hours per year
• Bereavement Leave: Up to 24 hours per year
• Health Insurance: District covers 85% of Employee-only coverage and 78% of Family coverage
• Dental & Vision Insurance: Free for employee-only coverage
• Retirement Match: Employee contributions up to 10% are matched at 100% by the District
o Additional options: 457 plan, Roth IRA, Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
• Family and Medical Leave Insurance (FAMLI) Program: Fully paid by the District
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Free life coaching, therapy sessions, and support services
• Safety Boot Allowance: $200 annually
• Recreation Perks: Free access to pools, fitness center, and private trails for you and your family
• Employee Discounts: 20% off recreation programs and facility rentals
• Benefits are subject to change in accordance with District policy.
Job Summary
The Parks Horticulture Technician is responsible for assisting with and performing maintenance of shrubs, flowers, and other landscape features maintained by the District.
Key Responsibilities
The following duties are an overview of the primary duties and responsibilities of the Parks Horticulture Technician and should not be considered an all-inclusive list.
• Control weed issues in the gardens both mechanically and chemically.
• Provide supplemental water for gardens and newly planted trees throughout the year, as needed.
• Assist in a variety of landscape maintenance projects (i.e. raking, trash removal, fence and
lighting repair, snow removal, etc.).
• Consistently promote a positive, professional image of the District and always provide excellent customer service.
• May assist in leading, monitoring, and training assigned staff in daily operations, including the proper and safe handling of tools, and equipment.
Safely operate and maintain equipment and power tools, including but not limited to front-end loaders, backhoes, skid steers, trenchers, sod cutters, snowplows, dump trucks, stump grinders, chippers, chainsaws, and hand tools. Assist in the design, installation, and maintenance of flower beds within the District's parks system; may support development of conceptual plans and cost estimates. Identify common pests and plant health issues; make recommendations and implement approved treatment methods in accordance with applicable regulations. Respond to or appropriately direct public inquiries; maintain positive working relationships with supervisors, co-workers, and the public; and participate in resident education programs as assigned.
Authority Exercised:
This position may lead other Park Technicians and/or up to two seasonal staff.
Requirements
Qualifications
General Requirements (All Levels):
• High School Diploma or equivalent
• Valid Colorado Driver's License with acceptable driving record
• Ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions, lift and move up to 50 pounds, and adapt to changing schedules
Advancement between levels is based on demonstrated competencies, certifications, and organizational needs.
Technician I
• Entry-level role with six (6) months of horticulture or related experience preferred.
• Knowledge of District parks and greenbelt locations within six (6) months of hire.
• Must obtain Flagger Certification and CPR/First Aid/AED Certification within one (1) year of hire.
Technician II
• Minimum of two (2) years of horticulture technician experience.
• Must demonstrate ability to independently perform full range of horticulture maintenance.
• Must initiate Colorado Certified Operator Pesticide Applicator License in Turf and Ornamentals within one (1) year and complete within eighteen (18) months of hire.
Technician III
• 4+ years' experience in Horticulture/Parks maintenance or two (2) years of experience in a similar parks or horticulture role, including snow removal responsibilities.
• Advanced knowledge in at least three of the following areas: irrigation, mowing, turf, athletics, horticulture, or general maintenance.
• Must initiate Colorado Master Gardener Program (CMG) within (1) year and complete within (18) months of hire.
• Must initiate Colorado Department of Agriculture Qualified Supervisor Pesticide Applicator's License in Turf and Ornamentals within one (1) year and complete within eighteen (18) months of hire.
Schedule (on-season) 4-day, 10-hour shifts
• Monday - Thursday: 6:30 AM - 5:00 PM
• Tuesday - Friday 6:30 AM - 5:00 PM
• Rotating Saturday schedule with all staff members
Schedule (off-season)
• Monday - Thursday: 7:00 AM - 4:30 PM
• Friday: 7:00 AM - 11:00 AM
• Winter: Snow removal schedules may require nights, weekends, and holidays
Ready to Join Our Team?
If you're motivated to help keep Ken-Caryl Ranch's parks green, healthy, and thriving, we'd love to hear from you!
This job description is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, or qualifications associated with the position. The District reserves the right to modify or assign other duties as necessary.
Employment with the District is at-will and may be terminated at any time, with or without cause or notice, in accordance with applicable law.