Grounds Laborer

Overview

Love working outdoors? Enjoy hands-on work that makes a visible impact in your community? If you take pride in well-kept parks, fresh landscapes, and safe public spaces, we want YOU on our Grounds team!

As a Grounds Laborer, you’ll help keep our parks beautiful, safe, and welcoming year-round—from lush summer fields to winter ice rinks. No two days are the same, and your work will be seen and enjoyed by the entire community.

Schedule:

M-F, 8am-4:30pm, some weekends and holidays

• Mowing, trimming, edging, and weeding park grounds.
• Assisting with landscape installation, planting, and mulching.
• Performing general park clean-up (leaves, debris, trash removal).
• Maintaining turf areas, sports fields, and irrigation systems.
• Completing minor repairs and painting of park structures.
• Setting up and maintaining ice rinks, including snow removal and resurfacing.
• Operating and maintaining landscaping equipment (mowers, tractors, power tools).
• Safely using fertilizers, herbicides, and other materials.
• Identifying and reporting safety hazards and helping correct them.
• Assisting with special events and community programs.
• Responding to public questions and concerns in a friendly, professional manner.
• Supporting sustainability and environmental initiatives.

• High school diploma or equivalent required
• Two (2) years of landscaping or grounds maintenance experience preferred

• Illinois Pesticide Operator’s License (or ability to obtain within one year)
• CPR/AED certification preferred

• Knowledge of grounds maintenance, turf care, landscaping, and irrigation
• Ability to safely operate and maintain maintenance equipment
• Strong commitment to safety and quality work
• Good communication and teamwork skills
• Problem-solver who can work independently or with a crew
• Availability to work weekends and holidays as needed

• Valid driver’s license and current vehicle insurance

This is an active, hands-on role that includes:

• Lifting up to 50 lbs unassisted.
• Frequent standing, walking, bending, kneeling, and reaching.
• Working outdoors in all seasons and weather conditions.
• Exposure to loud equipment, chemicals, and varying temperatures.

The Crystal Lake Park District is an Equal Opportunity Employer.