Grounds Laborer Apprentice

Youth Green Corps Laborer Track

Seattle Parks and Recreation (SPR) is a national leader and innovator in the services and programs we provide to our residents who enjoy our public spaces such as parks, community centers, specialty gardens and swimming pools. Our mission is to equip employees and the public for well-being as we support healthy people, a thriving environment and vibrant community. We provide safe and accessible spaces for residents and visitors to work, recreate, rejuvenate and enhance quality of life and wellness for children, teenagers, adults and seniors. Delivering excellent customer service to all is a core value. Traditionally, we have provided recreation opportunities through our network of community centers, pools, and other facilities. We are building our capacity to bring recreation programs to the peoplenot just in our facilities, but also in parks, in streets, and through partners, with goals of reducing racial health disparities and empowering historically underserved communities. SPR commits to the City of Seattle's Workplace Values and Expectations, and Racial Equity and Social Justice as core principles that guide our work. We support and hold ourselves accountable by striving to eliminate barriers to access and provide employees with equitable opportunities for professional growth and advancement. We are committed to advancing equity and social justice in our department and in every neighborhood by growing a dynamic and diverse workforce, developing strong investments, growth opportunities and beneficial partner strategies as we acknowledge and pledge to close disparities created by historical practices which often hindered workforce development, environmental justice, access to quality open spaces, programs and facilities.

The Youth Green Corps (YGC) provides Seattle youth with paid environmental work experience, job skills training, and pathways into careers with the City of Seattle and environmental fields. Corps Members perform meaningful work that improves trails, parks, forests, and community spaces while developing confidence, leadership, and transferable skills.

This Laborer Track position is designed to closely mirror entry-level Parks "Laborer" responsibilities while maintaining a youth employment and training focus. Corps Members will work as part of a supervised team, carrying out outdoor physical work assignments that support park maintenance, restoration, and public service. The role emphasizes hands-on training, workplace safety, and developing the skills needed for future employment with the City of Seattle or other green careers.

Job Responsibilities

• Perform physically demanding outdoor work in varying weather conditions (digging, hauling, planting, brush clearing, raking, sweeping, shoveling).
• Assist with trail construction and forest maintenance, site restoration, and vegetation management.
• Safely use and maintain hand tools and basic power tools.
• Load, unload, and transport materials, equipment, and debris.
• Support park clean-up and beautification projects.
• Follow all safety procedures and wear protective gear as required.
• Work collaboratively with fellow Corps Members under the direction of a Lead / Supervisor.
• Attend training sessions and workshops on environmental stewardship, safety, and job readiness.

Learning & Development Opportunities

Qualifications

Additional Information

The salary for this internship opportunity is $25.89 - $28.63 per hour. Interns will work up to 32 - 36 hours per week with varying hours. This internship is expected to last 3 months. Job offers are contingent on the verification of credentials and other information required by the employment process, including the completion of a background check.

The City of Seattle offers a comprehensive benefits package including vacation, holiday, and sick leave as well as medical, dental, vision, life and long-term disability insurance for employees and their dependents. More information about employee benefits is available on the City's website.