Posting number: 2026--0722
Department: PARKS & RECREATION
Job classification: Groundsworker
Posting type: Open
Categories: Parks and Recreation, Grounds & Landscaping
Performs semiskilled work mowing, seeding, planting, pruning, trimming, spraying and fertilizing grass, trees, shrubs, bushes, hedges and flowers, performing a variety of landscaping and grounds maintenance activities, operating, maintaining and repairing equipment, and related work as apparent or assigned. Work is performed under the moderate supervision of the Parks and Recreation Director.
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to complete the essential functions of the position with or without reasonable accommodations. Reasonable accommodations may be requested by contacting Pender County Human Resources.
General knowledge of the use of common hand and specialized power tools; general knowledge of the safe use and operation and preventive maintenance of equipment used in landscaping grounds maintenance; skill in the use of equipment to which assigned; ability to perform labor for extended periods, often under unfavorable weather conditions; ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with associates.
High school diploma or GED and moderate experience in landscaping, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
Possession of or ability to acquire commercial pesticide applicator's license.
Valid driver's license in the State of North Carolina.
This position is a safety sensitive position and subject to random substance abuse testing in accordance with the Pender County Personnel Policy and Risk Policy.
This work requires the regular exertion of up to 10 pounds of force, frequent exertion of up to 25 pounds of force and occasional exertion of up to 100 pounds of force; work regularly requires using hands to finger, handle or feel and reaching with hands and arms, frequently requires pushing or pulling, lifting and repetitive motions and occasionally requires standing, walking, sitting, speaking or hearing, climbing or balancing and stooping, kneeling, crouching or crawling; work has standard vision requirements; vocal communication is required for expressing or exchanging ideas by means of the spoken word; hearing is required to perceive information at normal spoken word levels; work requires operating machines, operating motor vehicles or equipment and observing general surroundings and activities; work regularly requires exposure to outdoor weather conditions, frequently requires working near moving mechanical parts, exposure to fumes or airborne particles, exposure to toxic or caustic chemicals and exposure to vibration and occasionally requires working in high, precarious places, exposure to the risk of electrical shock, wearing a self-contained breathing apparatus and exposure to bloodborne pathogens and may be required to wear specialized personal protective equipment; work is generally in a loud noise location (e.g. grounds maintenance, heavy traffic).

Pender County Government offers a range of services, including tax collection, library programs, parks management, planning and permitting, health and human services, and law enforcement. The County operates under the guidance of a five-member Board of Commissioners.
Located in North Carolina's Coastal Plains, Pender County is known for its natural beauty and mild climate. The area features scenic streams, brooks, natural lakes, and ponds that add to its rural charm. Agriculture is a key component of the county's economy, with crops like sweet potatoes, strawberries, tobacco, soybeans, peanuts, corn, and grapes. Sod farms and nurseries also contribute to the landscape in various parts of the county. Just under 30 miles away is Wilmington, a historic seaport city in neighboring New Hanover County. As one of the fastest-growing counties in the state, Pender County is part of one of the nation’s fastest-growing metropolitan areas.
Pender County includes six municipalities, with Burgaw serving as the county seat. Its blend of small urban areas and rural towns offers a unique variety, catering to diverse lifestyles and setting Pender County apart.