Parks Specialist

Application Deadline: 2026-06-30
Job Type: County
Job Description:

The Portage County Parks department is hiring a full-time Parks Specialist to join their team!

Pay range starts at $26.45 / hr

What are the primary job duties?

Trail Development / Maintenance

Assists with development, maintenance, mowing, signing, blading, etc. of public use recreation trails.
Enforces trail ordinances and collects user fees.
Daily Park Operations

Enforces park rules and regulations.
Cleans lodges, restrooms and campsites.
Assists with training and development of seasonal staff.
Collects user fees and logs information.
Provides information to park visitors.
Winter Recreation Program

Develops, maintains, and grooms cross-country ski trails.
Maintains downhill ski slopes and operates snow making equipment.
Operates ski rental shop and maintains equipment.
Grounds Maintenance

Performs tree removal, tree trimming, brush chipping, stump grinding, maintains tree nursery.
Assists with tree planting, landscaping, and invasive species control.
Builds, maintains, and installs signs.
Responsible for litter and garbage pickup.
Maintenance of Buildings and Facilities

Assists maintenance staff on major construction or maintenance projects.
Performs minor maintenance on park buildings and facilities.
Maintains Jordan Park dam and pond level.
Maintenance and Repairs of Park Equipment

Repairs picnic tables, grills, playground equipment.
Inspects playground equipment, buildings, and park facilities for safety and repairs.

What are the minimum qualifications?

Bachelor’s degree in natural resources management, recreation or closely related field.
Three years’ related field experience preferred.
Valid driver’s license required. Must obtain a Class A Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) within six months of hire date, could be extended based on class scheduling.
Pesticide applicators license; must receive pesticide applicators license within six months of hire.
Any combination of education and experience that provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform the duties of the position.

Note: This position works weekends, holidays and nights frequently

Portage County offers a GREAT benefit package, which includes the following;

Vacation – available on day one!
Health insurance- your choice of two health plans- (Health Savings Account associated with a High Deductible Health Plan with a County contribution or a PPO Co-pay plan)
Wellness incentive plan offered with health insurance enrollment! Earn up to $600 per year!
Flexible spending account
Dental insurance
State of Wisconsin Retirement Plan – County contribution of 7.2%!
Paid holidays
Paid sick leave
Life insurance- premium paid by the County (must work a minimum of 30 hrs/wk)
Long term disability insurance- premium paid by the County (must work a minimum of 30 hrs/wk)
EAP (Employee Assistance Plan) – paid by the County
457(b) Deferred Compensation Plan
Public Student Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) Program

Portage County is an Equal Opportunity Employer

https://www.co.portage.wi.gov/

Deadline Note: