Parks Maintenance

Janet  has worked in the Parks and Public Works Horticulture Industry for 11 years.

What does your job entail?

I have numerous duties and daily responsibilities. I perform maintenance, landscaping and construction on public land. I am responsible for the care of display beds, park sites, caretaker locations, boulevards, traffic islands, traffic circles and walkways, trails and forests. I also assist with training and supervision of staff, prioritize and plan daily work schedules, and respond to public requests and inquiries throughout the City.

What are your essential job functions?

My essential duties and job functions vary daily. I work in a number of locations, and my tasks include weeding, weed whacking, leaf blowing, pruning, hedge trimming, plant identification, aerating fields, fertilizing, adding soil/mulch, chipping, handling irrigation, graffiti removal, garbage pickup and removal of debris, and monitoring fish habitats in streams.

What do you like most about your job?

I  like the variety that my job affords. I love working outdoors, and working in nature. The hours are great, and I like working together as a crew to create a better looking city.

What advice would you give to someone considering a career in Parks and Public Works?

I suggest working for a crew for the summer, then taking the Residential Landscaping course. Talk to people in the field and at schools offering courses, and check out the city websites to see the many parks and trails and the city’s goal for the future.

What do you feel are good Traits for a person considering this field to possess?

Be open minded, and possess the ability to keep up with industry changes, such as “no pesticide” usage. It’s helpful to have an education/training, the ability to perform physical tasks, and to be flexible, friendly, respectful, good natured and work well with others.