Parks & Recreation Assistant

Position Summary
This full-time position performs semi‑skilled and manual maintenance, repair, and service work on City parks, facilities, and equipment. Duties include maintenance of landscaped areas, buildings, irrigation systems, playground equipment, and related structures, as well as soil and plant cultivation, public restroom maintenance, site cleanup, and assistance with construction or improvement projects.

Work is performed under the general supervision of the Parks & Recreation Manager, with assignments consistent with the classification. Work schedules may vary and can include evenings, weekends, and holidays based on operational needs.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities
Essential duties include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Maintain and repair park facilities, amenities, and structures, including restrooms, playgrounds, picnic areas, benches, tables, receptacles, and signage


• Inspect park grounds, facilities, and equipment to identify maintenance, safety, or repair needs


• Operate, maintain, and perform minor repairs on motorized, mechanical, and groundskeeping equipment


• Operate, maintain, and perform minor repairs on automated irrigation and sprinkler systems


• Assist with securing facilities and equipment and repairing vandalism or damage


• Assist with construction, installation, and improvement projects


• Set up and dismantle facilities and equipment for reservations, programs, and special events


• Provide general information and respond to inquiries from the public


• Perform other duties as assigned

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Knowledge of basic grounds maintenance practices, including mowing, planting, pruning, irrigation, irrigation systems, and fertilization


• Working knowledge of horticulture, turf management, plant and tree identification, and/or pest control


• Knowledge of applicable safety rules, regulations, and safe work practices


• Ability to safely operate motorized equipment, power tools, and hand tools


• Ability to read and interpret technical manuals, diagrams, and operating instructions


• Ability to maintain accurate records, logs, and documentation


• Ability to communicate effectively with supervisors, coworkers, and the public 

Minimum Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED equivalency required


• Experience in grounds maintenance, equipment operation, or general labor preferred; or any equivalent combination of training and experience that provides the knowledge and abilities necessary to perform the essential functions of the position


• Possession of a valid Idaho driver’s license


• Ability to operate motor vehicles and equipment, including dump trucks, front‑end loaders, tractors, riding and walk‑behind mowers, trimmers, and related equipment


• Ability to operate, adjust, and monitor automated sprinkler and irrigation control systems

Physical Demands and Work Environment
The physical demands and work environment described below are representative of the conditions required to perform the essential functions of this position. Regular, predictable, and on‑site attendance is an essential function. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

The employee may be required to stand for extended periods and walk long distances over uneven or natural terrain. The position requires frequent physical activity, stamina, and the use of hands and arms to operate tools and equipment. The employee must be able to frequently handle objects up to 10 pounds and occasionally up to 75 pounds, with or without reasonable accommodation. Vision requirements include close vision, color distinction, and the ability to adjust focus.

Work is performed primarily outdoors and may involve exposure to varying weather conditions, uneven surfaces, tripping hazards, power tools, heavy equipment, and chemicals commonly used in grounds maintenance. Noise levels may range from moderate to loud. Appropriate safety equipment and personal protective equipment are provided as required.

The City of Blackfoot is an Affirmative Action, Equal Opportunity Employer.