Parks & Facilities Maintenance Foreperson

PARK DISTRICT OF LA GRANGE - JOB DESCRIPTION

TITLE:                      Parks & Facilities Maintenance Foreperson
DEPARTMENT:        Parks Department
SUPERVISION:        Reports directly to the Parks, Grounds & Planning Manager
FLSA:                       Non-Exempt
SALARY RANGE:    $65,000 - $75,000 DOQ

POSITION SUMMARY
The Parks & Facilities Maintenance Foreperson serves as the primary field-based leader for the Park District's parks, grounds, and facilities operations. This position works under the direction of the Parks, Grounds & Planning Manager and is responsible for implementing assigned priorities by leading daily maintenance activities and supervising full-time and seasonal staff in the field.

This role focuses on execution, supervision, and hands-on leadership, translating direction, schedules, and standards established by the Parks, Grounds & Planning Manager into daily work plans. The Foreperson works alongside crews, provides real-time guidance and training, and ensures work is completed safely, efficiently, and to District standards.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

• Carry out daily maintenance operations as directed by the Parks, Grounds & Planning Manager, ensuring assigned priorities and schedules are executed effectively.
• Provide direct, hands-on supervision of three (3) full-time maintenance employees and four to five (4-5) seasonal employees.
• Serve as the working crew leader, actively participating in maintenance and repair tasks across parks and facilities..
• Plan and lead daily work tasks consistent with direction and priorities established by the Parks, Grounds & Planning Manager.
• Ensure parks, playgrounds, splash pads, athletic fields, shelters, landscaping, and facilities are maintained to District standards.
• Perform and document routine inspections of playgrounds, splash pads, athletic fields, and park amenities; identify hazards and coordinate corrective actions.
• Provide on-the-job training in equipment operation, maintenance techniques, and safety procedures.
• Perform and support routine maintenance and minor repairs in the following areas: electrical, plumbing, HVAC, irrigation, carpentry, and mechanical systems.
• Monitor contractor work on site and report progress, deficiencies, or concerns to the Parks, Grounds & Planning Manager.
• Assist with snow and ice removal, storm response, and emergency repairs.
• This position may be occasionally "on call" and be required to work outside standard hours for weather-related activities, special events, or other reasons determined by the District.
• Communicate field conditions, staffing needs, material shortages, and operational issues to the Parks, Grounds & Planning Manager in a timely manner.
• Maintain records related to inspections, work orders, equipment usage, and safety activities.
• Ensure compliance with OSHA, PDRMA, and District safety policies; model and enforce safe work practices.
• Respond professionally to resident inquiries encountered in the field and elevate policy-related issues or complaints to the Parks, Grounds & Planning Manager.
• Assist with site preparation and operational support for District events and recreation programs.
• Assist with inventory tracking, material management, and equipment maintenance.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the Parks, Grounds & Planning Manager.

HOURS OF WORK 
A normal 40-hour work week, Monday through Friday, 7:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., is considered standard. This position requires flexibility to work evenings, weekends, holidays, and emergency situations related to weather events, special programs, or District operations.

MARGINAL FUNCTIONS / RESPONSIBILITIES  

• Participate in safety meetings, inspections, and training activities.
• Assist with onboarding and mentoring new and seasonal employees.
• Support departmental initiatives related to preventive maintenance and asset management.

PSYCHOLOGICAL CONSIDERATIONS  

• May experience stress related to supervising staff and responding to time-sensitive operational issues.
• Must manage interpersonal dynamics among staff and interact professionally with the public.

PHYSIOLOGICAL CONSIDERATIONS 

• Regular exposure to physical labor, heavy equipment, and tools.
• Ability to lift, push, or pull up to 50 pounds without assistance.

ENVIRONMENTAL CONSIDERATIONS 

• Frequent exposure to outdoor weather conditions including heat, cold, rain, and snow.
• Exposure to chemicals, fertilizers, cleaning agents, paints, and petroleum products.
• Required use of protective equipment.

COGNITIVE CONSIDERATIONS 

• Must demonstrate strong problem-solving skills and sound judgment.
• Must maintain professionalism and composure in stressful or emergency situations.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Thorough working knowledge of parks, grounds, playgrounds, splash pad, and facility maintenance operations.
• Ability to identify perennial and woody plants. Knowledge of integrated pest management.
• Knowledge of commonly used pesticides and herbicides.
• Knowledge and experience in a skilled trade preferred.
• Demonstrated ability to lead and direct maintenance crews in a field-based environment on a daily basis.
• Ability to read and interpret site plans, maintenance instructions, equipment manuals, and basic technical drawings.
• Working knowledge of safety practices and use of personal protective equipment.
• Skilled in the safe operations of trucks, tractors, mowers, small engines, and power tools.
• Working knowledge of Microsoft 365 applications and mobile-based tools used for email communications, inspections, and operational documentation.
• Strong communication skills and ability to work collaboratively with staff, supervisors, contractors, and the public.
• Ability to exercise sound judgment and solve problems.
• Must possess a valid Illinois driver's license.

CERTIFICATIONS & LICENSES

• Certified Playground Safety Inspector (CPSI) - preferred or ability to obtain within six (6) months of hire.
• Certified Pool Operator (CPO) - preferred or ability to obtain within six (6) months of hire.
• Illinois Pesticide Operator License - preferred or ability to obtain within six (6) months of hire.
• First Aid/CPR/AED certification required within 90 days of hire.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Technical training, certifications, or coursework in parks maintenance, facilities management, horticulture, arboriculture, or related field preferred.
• Minimum of five (5) years of progressively responsible experience in park maintenance, facilities maintenance, construction trades, or related field.
• Previous experience as a lead worker, crew leader, of foreperson strongly preferred.
• Equivalent combinations of education and experience may be substituted for the above requirements.

Salary : $65,000 - $75,000