Public Works Assistant

The Public Works Assistant performs a variety of physical labor, maintenance, cleaning, and general support duties to assist the City of Toledo Public Works Department. This position helps maintain City streets, parks, facilities, utilities, and other public properties to ensure they remain safe, clean, and operational.

The position works under the direction of Public Works personnel and may assist with water and wastewater system maintenance, repairs, and other municipal projects. Work is primarily performed outdoors in varying weather conditions and requires physical labor, the use of tools and equipment, and the ability to follow safety procedures.

Essential Duties And Responsibilities Duties include, but are not limited to, the following:

Grounds, Parks, and General Maintenance

• Perform manual labor, including shoveling, digging, raking, lifting, hauling, and moving materials.
• Mow lawns, operate weed eaters, trim vegetation, remove brush, and perform general landscaping.
• Maintain City parks, playgrounds, sidewalks, public spaces, and other City-owned properties.
• Remove litter, debris, weeds, and other obstructions from public areas.
• Paint curbs, parking lines, and other designated surfaces.
• Pressure wash sidewalks, buildings, equipment, and public facilities as needed.
• Clean gutters, storm drains, catch basins, and drainage areas.
• Assist with seasonal maintenance, including leaf removal, storm cleanup, and preparations for winter weather.
• Assist with minor repairs, painting, and general upkeep of City buildings and facilities.

Facility and Restroom Maintenance

• Clean, sanitize, and maintain public restrooms, including toilets, sinks, floors, and fixtures.
• Empty trash containers and dispose of waste properly.
• Restock restroom supplies and report maintenance or repair needs.
• Assist with cleaning and maintaining park shelters, picnic areas, and other public facilities.
• Help prepare and maintain public spaces for City events and community activities.

Water and Wastewater System Support

• Assist Public Works personnel with water and sewer system repairs, maintenance, and improvements.
• Assist with excavation, backfilling, and site cleanup during utility repairs.
• Help locate, uncover, and access water meters, valves, utility lines, and other infrastructure.
• Assist with water main, service line, sewer line, and related infrastructure maintenance.
• Support routine inspections, preventative maintenance, and cleaning of water and wastewater facilities.
• Assist with hydrant maintenance, flushing, and other water system activities as directed.
• Help maintain wastewater treatment facilities, lift stations, and related equipment under the supervision of qualified personnel.
• Report observed leaks, damaged infrastructure, blockages, and other potential utility concerns.
• Follow established safety procedures when working around water, wastewater, chemicals, equipment, and excavation sites.

Equipment and General Operations

• Operate basic hand tools, power tools, lawn equipment, and other maintenance equipment as authorized.
• Clean, organize, and maintain assigned tools, vehicles, equipment, and work areas.
• Perform basic equipment inspections and report mechanical problems or needed repairs.
• Load and unload supplies, tools, and maintenance materials.
• Assist with setting up traffic cones, barricades, signs, and other temporary safety measures.
• Follow City safety policies and use required personal protective equipment.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the Public Works Department.

Minimum Qualifications

• Must be at least 19 years of age.
• Possess a valid driver's license and maintain an acceptable driving record.
• Ability to perform physically demanding work in varying weather conditions.
• Ability to safely operate or learn to operate basic maintenance tools and equipment.
• Ability to understand and follow verbal and written instructions.
• Ability to work independently on assigned tasks and cooperatively with Public Works personnel.
• Ability to communicate effectively with coworkers, supervisors, and the public.
• Willingness to learn municipal maintenance practices, safety procedures, and utility operations.

Preferred Qualifications

• Washington State Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator Group I certification preferred, but not required.
• Previous experience in public works, landscaping, construction, facility maintenance, or utility operations.
• Experience working with water distribution or wastewater collection systems.
• Familiarity with small equipment, hand tools, and basic maintenance practices.
• Additional relevant certifications or training in water, wastewater, traffic control, equipment operation, or workplace safety.

Physical Requirements and Working Conditions

• Must be able to regularly stand, walk, bend, kneel, climb, and perform repetitive physical tasks.
• Must be capable of lifting and carrying up to 50 pounds, with assistance or appropriate equipment for heavier loads.
• Work is performed primarily outdoors and may involve exposure to rain, cold, heat, mud, dust, noise, and uneven terrain.
• May work near moving equipment, vehicle traffic, excavation areas, and water or wastewater facilities.
• Must be willing to wear required protective equipment and follow all applicable safety procedures.
• May be required to respond to occasional urgent maintenance needs or work outside regularly scheduled hours, depending on staffing and operational needs.

Additional Information

This job description is intended to provide a general overview of the position and does not represent an exhaustive list of responsibilities. Duties may vary depending on seasonal needs, department priorities, and operational requirements.

The Public Works Assistant works under the direction of designated Public Works personnel and shall not independently perform duties requiring specialized certification, licensing, or authorization unless properly qualified and approved to do so.

• Medical Insurance: City-sponsored health insurance with a monthly employer contribution toward premiums.
• Retirement: Participation in the Washington State Public Employees' Retirement System (PERS), subject to eligibility requirements.
• Deferred Compensation: Optional participation in the City's 457 deferred compensation retirement savings program.
• Paid Vacation: Vacation leave earned according to the City's Personnel Policy and length of service.
• Paid Sick Leave: Sick leave accrued in accordance with City policy and Washington State law.
• Paid Holidays: Recognized City holidays for eligible employees.
• Paid Family and Medical Leave: Participation in Washington State's Paid Family and Medical Leave program.
• Workers' Compensation: Coverage for qualifying work-related injuries and illnesses.
• Employee Wellness Program: Opportunities to participate in City-sponsored wellness activities and challenges.