RPD PST Gardener Asst. TRN - Crocker Amazon Complex

Job Title:                      Public Service Trainee – Gardener Track

Classification:         9910 – Public Service Trainee

Program:                     San Francisco Human Services Agency (SFHSA) – Public Service

Training Program

Employment Type: Temporary Exempt (TEX)

SOC Code:                 3 7-3011 – Landscaping and Groundskeeping Workers

Related SOC Codes: 37-3012 – Pesticide Handlers, Sprayers, and Applicators, Vegetation

Schedule:                   32 hours per week at $26.28 per hour

Duration:                     6-12 months

Location:                     Various City and County of San Francisco Recreation and Parks

                                       Department (RPD) Host Sites

OST Position Summary

The 9916 Public Service Trainee (PST) – Gardener Track is a six-month transitional employment opportunity designed for San Francisco County CalWORKs, CAAP, CalFresh, and Foster Care participants. Through structured, on-the-job training, participants will gain foundational experience in grounds maintenance, horticulture, and public space beautification aligned with the responsibilities of entry-level landscaping and groundskeeping workers (SOC 37-3011).

Trainees are placed at RPD sites across San Francisco and receive hands-on experience in basic gardening techniques, safety procedures, and park stewardship. The role also includes mentorship, career readiness support, and wraparound case management to promote long-term employment and civil service advancement.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Assist in basic gardening tasks including weeding, mulching, raking, and planting
• Water and maintain landscaped areas, planter boxes, and community gardens
• Support groundskeeping duties such as sweeping pathways, clearing debris, and collecting litter
• Operate hand tools and light equipment under supervision
• Monitor site conditions and report safety or maintenance issues to supervisors
• Assist with preparation and breakdown of public park events or volunteer workdays
• Participate in daily crew huddles and team assignments
• Engage in professional development, including resume writing and mock interviews
• Complete training assignments and performance evaluations as scheduled

Professional Competencies Developed

• Grounds maintenance and horticultural care
• Tool safety and basic equipment handling
• Environmental stewardship and public space cleanliness
• Team collaboration and worksite communication
• Time management and daily work planning
• Civil service navigation for labor and maintenance classifications

Minimum Qualifications

• Must be eligible for Temporary Exempt classification under Charter Section 10.104.16(b)
• Commitment to completing a six-month training assignment
• Strong interest in gardening, public parks, outdoor work, or environmental care
• Ability to follow verbal instructions and communicate professionally on a team
• Punctual, reliable, and coachable

Preferred Qualifications

• Prior experience with volunteer cleanups, community gardens, or park events
• Comfort working outdoors in various weather conditions

Program Milestones & Completion Requirements

• Receive a "Meets Expectations" rating or higher on both midpoint and final evaluations
• Submit a final resume and participate in an exit interview
• Maintain attendance and professional conduct throughout the assignment

Graduation Outcomes

• Upon successful completion, trainees will receive:
• Certificate of Completion
• Letter of Program Completion
• Support transitioning into civil service roles (e.g., 3417 Gardener) or unsubsidized employment in landscaping, maintenance, or public works

SOC Career Path Alignment

This training role is aligned with SOC Code 37-3011 – Landscaping and Groundskeeping Workers and supports advancement into civil service and related occupations such as:

• 3417 Gardener
• 3424 General Laborer
• 7524 Grounds Maintenance Laborer
• Related SOC Code: 37-3012 – Pesticide Handlers, Sprayers, and Applicators, Vegetation
• Other roles in landscape services, horticulture, and environmental maintenance