Public Service Worker I

The City of Oak Park is recruiting Public Service Worker I candidates to perform a variety of tasks, including operation of heavy equipment (loaders, trucks, backhoes) and manual labor in water & sewer, parks & forestry, and street maintenance and repair. Employees may be assigned to any division of the Department of Public Works and are subject to Federal Drug and Alcohol testing requirements.

Responsibilities

• Operate power tools such as mowers, blowers, chainsaws, chippers, and trimmers.
• Operate large commercial equipment, including dump trucks, graders, backhoes, and loaders.
• Perform ice and snow control activities, including shoveling and salting.
• Conduct tree pruning and tree removal.
• Repair, install, and maintain underground sewers, lift stations, and related appurtenances.
• Maintain lawns and landscapes: cut and edge grass, plant, water, and care for trees, shrubs, and flowers.
• Repair and maintain pump stations, water meters, hydrants, and curb stop boxes.
• Repair and maintain streets and sidewalks, including concrete and asphalt removal/replacement, street signs, and markings.
• Maintain accurate work records, time sheets, and other data.
• Perform other duties and special projects as assigned.

Qualifications

• Valid driver’s license.
• High School Diploma or GED.
• Ability to obtain a CDL permit and written test with a passing grade within 90 days of hire.
• Ability to obtain a CDL Part B with Air‑Brakes & Tanker endorsement within 180 days of completing the CDL permit and written test.
• Preferred: Prior public‑works experience and a valid CDL with Part B (Air‑Brakes & Tanker endorsement).

Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities

• Valid, unrestricted Michigan driver’s license; ability to obtain a CDL Part B with Air‑Brake & Tanker endorsements within nine months of hire.
• Ability to lift and carry a minimum of 90 lb loads.
• Ability to work outdoors in extreme temperatures and tolerate exposure to dust, dirt, grease, fuel, chemicals, and lubricants.
• Physical ability to stoop, bend, climb trees, and enter underground vaults and pits with restricted movement.
• Capability to perform extended periods of manual labor and follow both written and oral instructions.
• Knowledge of equipment and tools used in public‑works practices.
• Residency requirement: live within 25 minutes of the City of Oak Park.
• May be required to obtain a Michigan pesticide‑application license.
• May be required to train in small‑engine and power‑tool repair and maintenance.

Special Working Conditions

• Must be available for all assignment dates and able to work overtime when called.
• Must reside no more than 25 minutes from the City of Oak Park.

Pay

Full‑time, TPOAM bargaining‑unit position with an hourly rate of $24.6673 – $29.8030, plus benefits.

Working Conditions & Physical Demands

• Regularly required to talk, hear, use hands, and reach with arms.
• Frequent bending, stooping, kneeling, and manual labor.
• Frequent lifting and moving of heavy items.
• Work is performed outdoors in dust, smoke, and inclement weather; noise level is usually loud.
• Overtime may be required.