Open Space Technician- H

Job Description:

Open Space Technician- H

Description

Description

The City of Palo Alto is seeking entry-level candidates to join our team as Open Space Technicians.
We currently have two SEIU Hourly positions available.

This opportunity is ideal for individuals who are beginning their careers in Open Space and Parks Management and are eager to gain hands-on experience in the field.

The Community Services Department of Palo Alto, specifically the Open Space, Parks, and Golf Division, is looking for entry-level candidates to join our Open Space team for the position of Open Space Technician. We welcome individuals from diverse backgrounds who are starting their careers in Open Space and Parks Management. Operating under general supervision, the role involves tasks in Parks and Open Space areas that contribute to the protection, preservation, and upkeep of Palo Alto's open space lands.

The City of Palo Alto has almost 4,000 acres of open space to explore, recreate, and relax in, for more information visit our site HERE.

Desired Qualifications

• Completion of the 12th grade (or equivalent).
• Possession of a valid Class “C” California driver’s license and a satisfactory driving record (DMV printout required).
• Basic construction and maintenance skills.
• Ability to perform manual labor including bending, stooping, kneeling, and lifting/carrying up to 75 pounds.
• Willingness to work outdoors in all weather conditions, including rough terrain and exposure to poison oak, dust, smoke, ticks, insects, and wildlife.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills; ability to use a two-way radio.
• Strong customer service skills, with the ability to interact tactfully and courteously with a diverse visitor population, City staff, and other agencies.
• Basic math and computer skills for financial record keeping.
• Ability to pass a background check.
• Team-oriented with flexibility to work weekends, holidays, mornings, and evenings (between 7:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m.).

SEIU- Hourly Benefits

• Medical Stipend: In lieu of providing a medical plan, the City grants a medical stipend $3.80 per hour.
• Sick Leave: Accrued at 0.03 hours for every hour worked.

This is an SEIU-Hourly position with limited benefits that is budgeted to not exceed 999 hours per fiscal year (July - June). The number of hours per week and schedule will be determined based on assignment.

Essential Duties

Essential and other important responsibilities and duties may include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Wear City-provided uniform; provide own boots.
• Assist in building and maintaining trails on City lands.
• Operate mechanical equipment such as chainsaws, weed whips, power pruners, and mowers.
• Perform cleanup and routine maintenance on City lands, buildings, and restrooms.
• Drive trucks and tractors; perform basic vehicle safety checks.
• Perform semi-skilled carpentry and construction tasks using hand and power tools.
• Provide visitor information and enforce park rules at the Foothills Park Entrance Station.
• Assist with reservations for park facilities including campgrounds and picnic areas.
• The position is entry-level, requiring familiarity with basic power tools such as weed whips and chainsaws.

Supplemental Information

More than one position will be filled from this posting.

Working Conditions / Physical Requirements:
Work is performed outdoors in variable weather and terrain conditions. Physical demands include lifting, carrying, bending, stooping, and use of hand/power tools.

The City of Palo Alto is an Equal Opportunity Employer. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), the City provides reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities and encourages both prospective and current employees to discuss potential accommodations with Human Resources.

City of Palo Alto offers the following benefits to those in a SEIU Hourly position:

Medical Stipend
$3.80 effective the pay period including July 1, 2024.

Sick Leave
Earn .03 hour of sick leave for each hour worked.

Retirement
City of Palo Alto PST (Part-time, Seasonal & Temporary Employees) Retirement Plan

Please note: The City does not participate in CA State Disability Insurance (SDI) or Social Security.

Closing Date/Time: 9/21/2025 11:59 PM Pacific

Salary:

$3,657.33 - $4,491.07 Monthly