Seasonal Public Works Maintenance Assistant

City of Burien
Burien, WA

Position open until filled.Interested individuals are encouraged to apply as soon as possible.The City of Burien is seeking reliable and safety-minded Seasonal Public Works Maintenance Assistants to support a variety of maintenance and operational activities. Under the direction of our Street & Stormwater Maintenance Manager or Lead, this temporary position will perform a variety of hands-on work in our storm and surface water facilities and streets.

Position Duration

This is a temporary position with a 40-hour-per-week schedule for approximately 5 months, from approximately June 1, 2026, through October 16, 2026.

Nature of Work

Provides a variety of manual work and light equipment operation in the construction, maintenance, and repair of storm and surface water facilities and streets. Typically works as a member of a crew.

Essential Functions

  • Supports and models the identified vision, values, and behaviors of the organization.

  • Maintains regular, reliable, and punctual attendance, consistent with established work schedules, to ensure effective public works operations.

  • Assists with setting up "safe work zones" using appropriate signage.

  • Cleans and maintains catch basins.

  • Assists with the cleaning and maintenance of detention ponds.

  • Locates storm drainage systems.

  • Assists with the repair of potholes and sidewalks.

  • Assists with sealing pavement cracks and patching.

  • Assists with the application or removal of paint stripes, thermoplastic markings, pavement markers, buttons, and reflectors.

  • Assists with the replacement of signs and mounts; fabrication of signs.

  • Assists with the installation of traffic control signals and devices.

  • Cleans and performs preventative maintenance on equipment.

  • Organizes and assembles materials and equipment necessary for tasks.

  • Maintains accurate records and completes service requests.

  • Clears vegetation.

  • Removes graffiti.

  • Picks up and disposes of trash.

  • Performs other duties as assigned.

Secondary Functions

  • Assist with flagging of traffic. A flagger certification course will be provided.

Job Scope

Position involves a moderate degree of complexity with frequent new and varied work situations. The incumbent will operate under specific, definite directions and instructions with moderate supervision.

Knowledge of:

  • Hand and power tool operation.

  • Work hazards and applicable safety precautions.

  • Basic arithmetic, including addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division.

Ability to:

  • Perform heavy manual tasks for extended periods of time under varying weather conditions.

  • Learn and demonstrate the ability to become proficient in new procedures, operations, systems, and equipment.

  • Operate standard construction tools such as hammer, saw, drill, screwdriver, sprayer, chain saw, etc.

  • Work with cleaning fluids, paints, cleaning agents and other solutions.

  • Follow written and/or verbal instruction.

  • Climb ladders, work at heights, and on sloped surfaces.

  • Accurately maintain records and prepare reports.

  • Establish and maintain cooperative and effective working relationships with others.

  • Plan and organize work to meet deadlines.

  • Work independently from general instructions and work expectations.

  • Demonstrate attention to detail.

Physical Activities

Position requires continuous standing and walking; frequent talking, hearing, handling, feeling, and repetitive motions of hands and wrists; stooping, reaching, bending, and repetitive motions of feet, and rare crawling, sitting, kneeling, and climbing. Must be able to push, pull, lift, and carry 50 pounds.

Education/Experience

High School Graduate or GED. Previous experience in public works, parks maintenance, or a combination of experience and training that provides the candidate with the knowledge and skills to perform the job is desired.

Special Requirements

  • Successful completion of employment background check.

  • Valid Washington State Driver's License with satisfactory driving record.

Job Conditions

Work is performed primarily in a field environment and requires travel to various locations. Incumbent may be exposed to noise from machinery and equipment operation, exposed to all weather conditions, and to conditions and hazards from obstacles, rough terrains, heights, and open trenches associated with construction sites. Incumbent may be exposed to potentially hazardous materials and equipment, fumes, or vapors. The incumbent may be required to work evenings, weekends, and holidays. The position may involve contact with dissatisfied or abusive individuals.

Notices

  • The City of Burien believes that each employee makes a significant contribution to our success. This job description outlines the primary duties, qualifications, and job scope. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment to the position.
  • The City of Burien is an Equal Opportunity Employer and assures equal employment practices regardless of sex, race, color, creed, religion, national origin, pregnancy, age, marital status, honorably discharged veteran or military status, sexual orientation, genetic information, disability, or any other basis prohibited by local, State or Federal law.
  • Verification of identity and United States work authorization must be completed before employment commences as required by the Immigration Reform and Control Act.
  • Applicants will be evaluated on the basis of education and related experience. Highly qualified candidates may be invited to participate in interviews. Candidates may be asked to respond to supplemental questions in writing and to supply illustrative examples of work. A test may also be administered to assess relevant skills. Additional references may be requested of finalists.
  • If you need special accommodation in the application or examination process, please contact Human Resources at (206) 241-4647
  • The City of Burien has a no-smoking policy in all City facilities and all City vehicles.
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