Parks Maintenance Worker

Career Guide

A Parks Maintenance Worker keeps public parks clean, safe, and welcoming. The role focuses on groundskeeping, basic repairs, trash and restroom upkeep, and seasonal work such as mowing and snow removal. Most jobs are with city, county, state, or park district employers.

Key Responsibilities

Mow lawns and trim edges
Prune shrubs and remove weeds
Plant and water trees, flowers, and turf
Pick up litter and empty trash bins
Clean and restock restrooms
Maintain trails, fields, and playground areas
Inspect park areas for safety hazards
Perform basic repairs on benches, signs, and fences
Operate and maintain small power equipment
Apply ice melt and clear snow when needed
Set up and take down equipment for events
Document issues and report larger repairs to supervisors

Top Skills for Success

Reliability

Attention to Detail

Time Management

Teamwork

Customer Service

Equipment Safety

Power Tool Operation

Mowing

Pruning

Irrigation Basics

Basic Carpentry

Basic Plumbing

Fertilizer Handling

Pest Awareness

Workplace Safety Compliance

Career Progression

Can Lead To

Senior Parks Maintenance Worker

Parks Crew Lead

Grounds Supervisor

Parks Maintenance Supervisor

Transition Opportunities

Irrigation Technician

Tree Worker

Athletic Field Technician

Facilities Maintenance Technician

Landscape Technician

Park Ranger

Common Skill Gaps

Often Missing Skills

Small Engine MaintenanceIrrigation TroubleshootingTree Care SafetyWork Order DocumentationChemical SafetyTraffic Control Safety

Development SuggestionsBuild skills through employer training, community college short courses, and supervised practice. Ask to shadow experienced staff on irrigation, equipment upkeep, and safety inspections. Keep a simple log of completed tasks and issues to strengthen documentation habits.

Salary & Demand

Median Salary Range

Entry Level25,000 to 36,000 USD per year

Mid Level36,000 to 48,000 USD per year

Senior Level48,000 to 62,000 USD per year

Growth Trend

Steady demand, driven by ongoing public space upkeep, seasonal needs, and increased focus on park safety and cleanliness.

Companies Hiring

Major Employers

City Parks and Recreation DepartmentsCounty Public Works DepartmentsState Park AgenciesPark DistrictsSchool District Grounds DepartmentsUniversities and CollegesProperty Management FirmsLandscape Maintenance CompaniesCemeteriesSports Complex Operators

Industry Sectors

Local GovernmentState GovernmentEducationProperty ManagementLandscaping ServicesOutdoor Recreation

Recommended Next Steps

Earn First Aid Certification

Earn CPR Certification

Complete workplace safety training

Practice safe operation of mowers, trimmers, and blowers

Learn basic small engine checks and cleaning routines

Build a simple portfolio of before and after photos of projects

Ask for cross training in irrigation and athletic field care

Create a resume that highlights equipment used and results delivered

Set a goal to lead small tasks to prepare for a crew lead role