Parks & Grounds Maintenance Manager
Apply NowCompany: City of Duluth, MN
Location: Duluth, MN 55811
Description:
Salary : $86,783.00 - $114,200.00 Annually
Location : Duluth, MN
Job Type: Full-Time
Job Number: A25033
Department: Property, Parks, & Libraries
Division: Property & Facilities Management/Park Maintenance
Opening Date: 03/31/2025
Closing Date: 4/21/2025 11:59 PM Central
FLSA: Exempt
Bargaining Unit: Supervisory
Probation Period: 12 months
Eligible List Duration: 7 months
Job Posting Information
SUMMARY/PURPOSE
The Parks & Grounds Maintenance Manager will be responsible for managing, directing, evaluating and supervising the overall coordination, planning, operation, and performance of routine and capital maintenance in City parks and/or on City property. The Parks & Grounds Maintenance Manager will supervise Park Maintenance staff and will act as a project manager to provide technical expertise and guidance on key City parks and grounds projects, and will exercise independent judgment and discretion in carrying out professional project, maintenance, and operational decisions.
SUPERVISION RECEIVED
The supervisor provides administrative direction with assignments in terms of broadly defined missions or functions. Incumbents have responsibility for planning, designing, and carrying out programs, projects, studies, or other work independently.
SUPERVISION GIVEN
Does have supervisory responsibility, typically for employees who exercise broad discretion. The supervisor provides broad guidance including mission and vision but does not provide task or duty level.
Essential Duties & Responsibilities (other duties may be assigned)
1. Plan, direct, supervise, and evaluate the implementation of landscape and park amenity maintenance and capital improvement plans/programs in City parks and/or on City property and/or facilities.
2. Consult and collaborate with stakeholders and consultants to gather information, perform financial analysis, and develop routine and capital maintenance plans that adhere to accepted park amenity and landscaping principles and code compliance standards.
3. Direct the determination of maintenance and capital maintenance projects' scope, budget and methodology, the preparation of bid specifications with consultants/contractors, review bid proposals, and participate in the selection of consultants/contractors.
4. Lead the negotiation of contract terms with consultants/contractors.
5. Inspect the work done by City maintenance staff, consultants, contractors, and vendors for conformance to specifications, and adjust as necessary.
6. Review consultant reports, lab analysis results, regulatory guidelines, and other technical material to guide the implementation of best practice routine and capital maintenance efforts.
7. Plan, direct, and monitor a comprehensive City sidewalk snow removal program.
8. Identify funding sources and develop, monitor, and administer general maintenance and capital project budgets for the division.
9. Collaborate with the Property & Facilities Manager in the development of capital maintenance plans, implementation, routine maintenance and utilization of the asset management system, and development of reports as necessary to disseminate key park, landscape, and facility issues to City Administration.
10. Collaborate with the Property & Facilities Manager and the Parks & Recreation Manager on the development and implementation of maintenance and project priorities, planning, resource allocations, and service levels.
11. Research and keep abreast of current park and landscape maintenance practices, construction management practices, landscape architectural techniques, materials, trends, technologies, and methods; act as a technical City resource for the overall development, implementation, and quality control of park infrastructure planning and construction projects.
12. In the absence of the PFM Manager, and as requested, act in the capacity of Property & Facilities Manager to ensure seamless operation of the Property & Facilities Management and Park Maintenance Divisions.
13. Manage employee performance, and provide training, coaching, and mentoring for employees.
14. Provide clear, sufficient, and timely direction and information to the employees about plans, expectations, tasks, and activities.
15. Demonstrate highly-effective leadership by promoting and supporting the mission and vision of the organization, recognizing and defining issues, and taking initiative towards improvements.
16. Recommend the hire, transfer, assignment, promotion, employee grievance resolution, discipline, suspension, or discharge of assigned personnel.
17. Provide for ongoing training of employees in emerging methods, trends, technologies, and proper and safe work methods and procedures.
18. Coordinate with various City departments, other government agencies, and community groups to develop methods of sharing resources, minimizing duplication, and simplifying procedures.
19. Establish and maintain positive working relationship with the employees by maintaining two-way communication, producing consistent results, advocating for the team when appropriate, and offering expertise to improve processes, systems, and the organization.
20. Other duties may be assigned.
Minimum Qualifications
Education & Experience Requirements
A. Bachelor's Degree in Landscape Architecture, Construction Management, Project Management, Parks and Recreation, Public Administration, or a related professional field, and four (4) years of related professional experience; OR a minimum of eight (8) years of related education and/or full-time, verifiable professional parks, grounds, construction project, and/or facilities maintenance experience.
B. Two (2) years of experience must be in a supervisory/lead position of similar complexity and level of responsibility.
License Requirements
A. Possess and maintain a valid Minnesota Class D driver's license or privilege.
B. Ability to obtain a Pesticide Applicator's license within one (1) year of hire date.
Selection Process Information
Education/Experience Review (100% of scoring process; 70 pass point): Applicants meeting the minimum qualifications will be rated based on the type (relatedness) and extent of their education and experience as documented on their application and/or supplemental questionnaire. Applicants who pass this exam will have their names placed on an eligible list for this classification.
Non-Discrimination
The City of Duluth is an equal opportunity and veteran-friendly employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex, marital status, familial status, age, sexual orientation, status with regard to public assistance, disability, genetic information, veteran status or activity in a local Human Rights Commission or any other characteristic protected by law.
Alternative Exam Process (does not apply to Charter Appointment, provisional, temporary, or part-time non-union selections)
For individuals who qualify under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), alternative examination processes are available on an individual basis upon prior arrangement. Contact Human Resources at 218-730-5210, as soon as possible prior to the scheduled date of the exam. TDD services are available through 218-730-5630.
Work Eligibility
In accordance with the Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986, the City of Duluth requires verification of identity and work eligibility at the point of hire.
Right to Appeal (does not apply to Charter Appointment, provisional, temporary, or part-time non-union selections)
Any applicant who has been found qualified to participate in a selection process for a position in the classified service who has reason to contest the validity or fairness of any step in the selection process may appeal to the Civil Service Board within 10 calendar days of the examination. (If the examination is an Education/Experience Review, the applicant must appeal within 10 calendar days of the closing date for accepting applications.) The notice of appeal shall be in writing, shall contain a complete statement of the matter in controversy and the relief requested, and shall be signed and dated by the appellant. The notice shall be addressed to the Civil Service Board and be delivered to the Human Resources Office. If an applicant wishes to file an appeal electronically, the notice should be sent by email to .
VETERAN'S PREFERENCE
Does not apply to Charter Appointment, provisional, seasonal, temporary, or part-time non-union selections
OPEN SELECTIONS
If claiming veteran's preference, please attach to your application (via file upload) a copy of all documents required for the option that applies to you:
Veteran
1.) "Member Copy 4" DD214 or DD215 indicating an honorable discharge.
Disabled Veteran
1.) "Member Copy 4" DD214 or DD215 indicating an honorable discharge;
2.) FL-802, FL 21-802, or letter of disability or equivalent from USDVA Board's written decision of a compensation rating of 10% or greater, dated within 12 months.
Spouse of Disabled Veteran
1.) Copy of Marriage Certificate;
2.) "Member Copy 4" DD214 or DD215 indicating an honorable discharge;
3.) FL-802, FL 21-802, or letter of disability or equivalent from USDVA Board's written decision of a compensation rating of 10% or greater, dated within 12 months. (Eligible only if the veteran is unable to qualify for the specific position being applied for as a result of the service-connected disability.)
Spouse of Deceased Veteran
1.) Copy of Marriage Certificate;
2.) Death Certificate or other proof of death;
3.) "Member Copy 4" DD214 or DD215 indicating an honorable discharge. If Disabled Veteran, also include
4.) FL-802, FL 21-802, or letter of disability or equivalent from USDVA Board's written decision of a compensation rating of 10% or greater, dated within 12 months. (Eligible only if applicant has not remarried and the veteran died during active duty or as a result of an injury received from active duty.)
Preference points will be added to Veteran, Spouse of Disabled or Deceased Veteran, or Disabled Veteran's score only if the applicant successfully completes all phases of the exam process and Human Resources has received all supporting documentation.
PROMOTIONAL OR INTERNAL SELECTIONS
If claiming veteran's preference, please attach to your application (via file upload) a copy of the documents listed below:
Disabled Veteran
1.) "Member Copy 4" DD214 or DD215 indicating an honorable discharge;
2.) FL-802, FL 21-802, or letter of disability or equivalent from USDVA Board's written decision of a compensation rating of 50% or greater, dated within 12 months.
Preference points will be awarded to Disabled Veteran's score one time, on first promotional or internal only selection process after securing City employment, and only if the applicant successfully completes all phases of the exam process and Human Resources has received all supporting documentation.
Please refer to for additional information about Veteran's Preference.
Eligible City of Duluth employees earn a competitive salary and benefits package, including:
01
Are you a current City of Duluth employee who has successfully passed a probation period for a classified position?
02
Which best describes how you meet the Education & Experience Requirements for Parks & Grounds Maintenance Manager?
03
How many years of experience do you have in a supervisory/lead position of similar complexity and level of responsibility?
04
Describe how you meet the Education & Experience Requirements for this position as indicated above (be specific).
05
Which best describes your driver's license status?
06
Do you have the ability to obtain a pesticide applicator license within one year of hire?
07
Please describe your leadership style, and provide an example of how you have effectively used this approach in your past work experience.
08
This position will oversee the maintenance of more than 100 parks, more than 11,000 acres of green space, and thousands of park amenities. What is your overarching vision for the maintenance of the City of Duluth parks both currently and in the future?
09
Describe your knowledge of and experience with developing, administering, and monitoring a division budget.
10
Describe your experience building and maintaining relationships both internally and externally with various firms and contractors and subcontractors to implement successful projects.
Required Question
Location : Duluth, MN
Job Type: Full-Time
Job Number: A25033
Department: Property, Parks, & Libraries
Division: Property & Facilities Management/Park Maintenance
Opening Date: 03/31/2025
Closing Date: 4/21/2025 11:59 PM Central
FLSA: Exempt
Bargaining Unit: Supervisory
Probation Period: 12 months
Eligible List Duration: 7 months
Job Posting Information
SUMMARY/PURPOSE
The Parks & Grounds Maintenance Manager will be responsible for managing, directing, evaluating and supervising the overall coordination, planning, operation, and performance of routine and capital maintenance in City parks and/or on City property. The Parks & Grounds Maintenance Manager will supervise Park Maintenance staff and will act as a project manager to provide technical expertise and guidance on key City parks and grounds projects, and will exercise independent judgment and discretion in carrying out professional project, maintenance, and operational decisions.
SUPERVISION RECEIVED
The supervisor provides administrative direction with assignments in terms of broadly defined missions or functions. Incumbents have responsibility for planning, designing, and carrying out programs, projects, studies, or other work independently.
SUPERVISION GIVEN
Does have supervisory responsibility, typically for employees who exercise broad discretion. The supervisor provides broad guidance including mission and vision but does not provide task or duty level.
Essential Duties & Responsibilities (other duties may be assigned)
1. Plan, direct, supervise, and evaluate the implementation of landscape and park amenity maintenance and capital improvement plans/programs in City parks and/or on City property and/or facilities.
2. Consult and collaborate with stakeholders and consultants to gather information, perform financial analysis, and develop routine and capital maintenance plans that adhere to accepted park amenity and landscaping principles and code compliance standards.
3. Direct the determination of maintenance and capital maintenance projects' scope, budget and methodology, the preparation of bid specifications with consultants/contractors, review bid proposals, and participate in the selection of consultants/contractors.
4. Lead the negotiation of contract terms with consultants/contractors.
5. Inspect the work done by City maintenance staff, consultants, contractors, and vendors for conformance to specifications, and adjust as necessary.
6. Review consultant reports, lab analysis results, regulatory guidelines, and other technical material to guide the implementation of best practice routine and capital maintenance efforts.
7. Plan, direct, and monitor a comprehensive City sidewalk snow removal program.
8. Identify funding sources and develop, monitor, and administer general maintenance and capital project budgets for the division.
9. Collaborate with the Property & Facilities Manager in the development of capital maintenance plans, implementation, routine maintenance and utilization of the asset management system, and development of reports as necessary to disseminate key park, landscape, and facility issues to City Administration.
10. Collaborate with the Property & Facilities Manager and the Parks & Recreation Manager on the development and implementation of maintenance and project priorities, planning, resource allocations, and service levels.
11. Research and keep abreast of current park and landscape maintenance practices, construction management practices, landscape architectural techniques, materials, trends, technologies, and methods; act as a technical City resource for the overall development, implementation, and quality control of park infrastructure planning and construction projects.
12. In the absence of the PFM Manager, and as requested, act in the capacity of Property & Facilities Manager to ensure seamless operation of the Property & Facilities Management and Park Maintenance Divisions.
13. Manage employee performance, and provide training, coaching, and mentoring for employees.
14. Provide clear, sufficient, and timely direction and information to the employees about plans, expectations, tasks, and activities.
15. Demonstrate highly-effective leadership by promoting and supporting the mission and vision of the organization, recognizing and defining issues, and taking initiative towards improvements.
16. Recommend the hire, transfer, assignment, promotion, employee grievance resolution, discipline, suspension, or discharge of assigned personnel.
17. Provide for ongoing training of employees in emerging methods, trends, technologies, and proper and safe work methods and procedures.
18. Coordinate with various City departments, other government agencies, and community groups to develop methods of sharing resources, minimizing duplication, and simplifying procedures.
19. Establish and maintain positive working relationship with the employees by maintaining two-way communication, producing consistent results, advocating for the team when appropriate, and offering expertise to improve processes, systems, and the organization.
20. Other duties may be assigned.
Minimum Qualifications
Education & Experience Requirements
A. Bachelor's Degree in Landscape Architecture, Construction Management, Project Management, Parks and Recreation, Public Administration, or a related professional field, and four (4) years of related professional experience; OR a minimum of eight (8) years of related education and/or full-time, verifiable professional parks, grounds, construction project, and/or facilities maintenance experience.
B. Two (2) years of experience must be in a supervisory/lead position of similar complexity and level of responsibility.
License Requirements
A. Possess and maintain a valid Minnesota Class D driver's license or privilege.
B. Ability to obtain a Pesticide Applicator's license within one (1) year of hire date.
Selection Process Information
Education/Experience Review (100% of scoring process; 70 pass point): Applicants meeting the minimum qualifications will be rated based on the type (relatedness) and extent of their education and experience as documented on their application and/or supplemental questionnaire. Applicants who pass this exam will have their names placed on an eligible list for this classification.
Non-Discrimination
The City of Duluth is an equal opportunity and veteran-friendly employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex, marital status, familial status, age, sexual orientation, status with regard to public assistance, disability, genetic information, veteran status or activity in a local Human Rights Commission or any other characteristic protected by law.
Alternative Exam Process (does not apply to Charter Appointment, provisional, temporary, or part-time non-union selections)
For individuals who qualify under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), alternative examination processes are available on an individual basis upon prior arrangement. Contact Human Resources at 218-730-5210, as soon as possible prior to the scheduled date of the exam. TDD services are available through 218-730-5630.
Work Eligibility
In accordance with the Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986, the City of Duluth requires verification of identity and work eligibility at the point of hire.
Right to Appeal (does not apply to Charter Appointment, provisional, temporary, or part-time non-union selections)
Any applicant who has been found qualified to participate in a selection process for a position in the classified service who has reason to contest the validity or fairness of any step in the selection process may appeal to the Civil Service Board within 10 calendar days of the examination. (If the examination is an Education/Experience Review, the applicant must appeal within 10 calendar days of the closing date for accepting applications.) The notice of appeal shall be in writing, shall contain a complete statement of the matter in controversy and the relief requested, and shall be signed and dated by the appellant. The notice shall be addressed to the Civil Service Board and be delivered to the Human Resources Office. If an applicant wishes to file an appeal electronically, the notice should be sent by email to .
VETERAN'S PREFERENCE
Does not apply to Charter Appointment, provisional, seasonal, temporary, or part-time non-union selections
OPEN SELECTIONS
If claiming veteran's preference, please attach to your application (via file upload) a copy of all documents required for the option that applies to you:
Veteran
1.) "Member Copy 4" DD214 or DD215 indicating an honorable discharge.
Disabled Veteran
1.) "Member Copy 4" DD214 or DD215 indicating an honorable discharge;
2.) FL-802, FL 21-802, or letter of disability or equivalent from USDVA Board's written decision of a compensation rating of 10% or greater, dated within 12 months.
Spouse of Disabled Veteran
1.) Copy of Marriage Certificate;
2.) "Member Copy 4" DD214 or DD215 indicating an honorable discharge;
3.) FL-802, FL 21-802, or letter of disability or equivalent from USDVA Board's written decision of a compensation rating of 10% or greater, dated within 12 months. (Eligible only if the veteran is unable to qualify for the specific position being applied for as a result of the service-connected disability.)
Spouse of Deceased Veteran
1.) Copy of Marriage Certificate;
2.) Death Certificate or other proof of death;
3.) "Member Copy 4" DD214 or DD215 indicating an honorable discharge. If Disabled Veteran, also include
4.) FL-802, FL 21-802, or letter of disability or equivalent from USDVA Board's written decision of a compensation rating of 10% or greater, dated within 12 months. (Eligible only if applicant has not remarried and the veteran died during active duty or as a result of an injury received from active duty.)
Preference points will be added to Veteran, Spouse of Disabled or Deceased Veteran, or Disabled Veteran's score only if the applicant successfully completes all phases of the exam process and Human Resources has received all supporting documentation.
PROMOTIONAL OR INTERNAL SELECTIONS
If claiming veteran's preference, please attach to your application (via file upload) a copy of the documents listed below:
Disabled Veteran
1.) "Member Copy 4" DD214 or DD215 indicating an honorable discharge;
2.) FL-802, FL 21-802, or letter of disability or equivalent from USDVA Board's written decision of a compensation rating of 50% or greater, dated within 12 months.
Preference points will be awarded to Disabled Veteran's score one time, on first promotional or internal only selection process after securing City employment, and only if the applicant successfully completes all phases of the exam process and Human Resources has received all supporting documentation.
Please refer to for additional information about Veteran's Preference.
Eligible City of Duluth employees earn a competitive salary and benefits package, including:
- Vacation, Sick and Personal Leave
- Paid Holidays
- Medical Plan
- Dental Plan
- Life Insurance
- Flexible Spending Accounts
- Retirement Benefits
- Deferred Compensation
- Training and Advancement Opportunities
- Employee Wellness Program
- Employee Assistance Program
01
Are you a current City of Duluth employee who has successfully passed a probation period for a classified position?
- Yes
- No
02
Which best describes how you meet the Education & Experience Requirements for Parks & Grounds Maintenance Manager?
- Bachelor's Degree in Landscape Architecture, Construction Management, Project Management, Parks and Recreation, Public Administration, or a related professional field, and four (4) years of related professional experience (including two years of experience in a lead or supervisory role)
- A minimum of eight (8) years of related education and/or full-time, verifiable professional parks, grounds, construction project, and/or facilities maintenance experience (including two years of experience in a lead or supervisory role)
- I do not meet any of the Education & Experience requirements listed above
03
How many years of experience do you have in a supervisory/lead position of similar complexity and level of responsibility?
- No experience
- Less than one year
- One year to less than two years
- Two years to less than three years
- Three years to less than four years
- Four years to less than five years
- More than five years
04
Describe how you meet the Education & Experience Requirements for this position as indicated above (be specific).
05
Which best describes your driver's license status?
- Valid MN Class D or equivalent
- Valid MN Commercial Class C or equivalent
- Valid MN Commercial Class B or equivalent
- Valid MN Commercial Class A or equivalent
- No valid driver's license
06
Do you have the ability to obtain a pesticide applicator license within one year of hire?
- Yes
- No
07
Please describe your leadership style, and provide an example of how you have effectively used this approach in your past work experience.
08
This position will oversee the maintenance of more than 100 parks, more than 11,000 acres of green space, and thousands of park amenities. What is your overarching vision for the maintenance of the City of Duluth parks both currently and in the future?
09
Describe your knowledge of and experience with developing, administering, and monitoring a division budget.
10
Describe your experience building and maintaining relationships both internally and externally with various firms and contractors and subcontractors to implement successful projects.
Required Question