Summer 26 - Seasonal Planting Laborer Short Term - Greening the Gateway Cities (Worcester)

About the role

The Department of Conservation and Recreation seeks four contract employees for the Seasonal Planting Laborer I position (Short Term Employment – Greening the Gateway Cities) in Worcester, MA. The role supports urban forestry activities by planting trees in Massachusetts Gateway Cities to increase tree canopy cover, reduce heating and cooling energy costs for residences and businesses, and improve neighborhood aesthetics.

Responsibilities

• Work outdoors in all weather conditions performing labor tasks to support tree planting efforts.
• Dig and backfill tree planting holes using hand tools.
• Plant trees according to industry standards.
• Load and unload trees, tools, and equipment from vehicles and trailers.
• Maintain vehicles, tools, and equipment, including preventive maintenance such as washing, inspecting, tightening, lubricating, and sharpening cutting tools.
• Perform related duties as assigned.

Preferred Qualifications

• Ability to follow oral and written instructions.
• Ability to work effectively in a team setting.
• Manual dexterity and physical stamina for full-time, hard manual labor.
• Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds.
• Willingness to work in all weather conditions.
• Skill in using hand tools such as shovels, mattocks, pry bars, bolt cutters, and clippers.
• Potential to advance to Laborer II with proven experience driving a van or towing a trailer (rate: $18.00/hour or $1,440.00 biweekly).