Buildings and Grounds Technician

Position Description

Dodge Nature Center and Preschool is a nonprofit organization providing quality environmental education across its 460+ acre nature preserve in West St. Paul, Mendota Heights, and Cottage Grove. Dodge provides environmental and outdoor education experiences for thousands of people every year through school programs, outreach, public programs, events, and a nature-based preschool (Dodge Nature Preschool).

The Buildings and Grounds Technician will carry out daily assignments related to the care and maintenance of buildings, grounds, vehicles, and equipment primarily at Dodge Nature Center’s Shepard Farm property in Cottage Grove. Work will also take place at the Main Property in West St. Paul.

Job Functions and Key Responsibilities

Buildings and Grounds Maintenance – 75%

• Perform general building maintenance which can include cleaning, changing light bulbs, painting, light plumbing, and other related maintenance activities.
• Assist in mowing, weed whipping, and grounds maintenance to keep all lawns and trails groomed and to make the site presentable.
• In winter months, carry out snow plowing, snow blowing, shoveling, and sanding of driveways, parking lots and walkways.
• Perform a variety of carpentry-related projects along with general plumbing and electrical.

Farm Support – 10%

• In partnership with the farm team, support and perform tasks involving farm maintenance and animal care.

Vehicle and Equipment Maintenance – 10%

• Perform assigned tasks related to the cleaning and care of all vehicles and equipment.

Supervision – 5%

• Supervise volunteers, such as Dakota County Service workers, and/or youth job skill training groups.

Other Duties as Assigned

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications

• Educational Background
  High school diploma
• Valid Driver’s License.
• Knowledge of grounds maintenance methods, equipment, and safe work practices.
• Ability to operate and maintain hand tools, power tools, and lawn equipment.
• Ability to work as both part of a team and independently.
• Comfortable balancing multiple responsibilities, shifting priorities, and deadlines while maintaining attention to detail.
• Commitment to Dodge Nature Center’s mission, vision, and values.
• Some evenings and weekends will be required.
• Physical Requirements
  Ability to perform tasks that involve manual labor, including bending, lifting, and carrying objects up to 50 pounds. Ability to traverse uneven terrain and spend up to 6 hours per day outside in inclement weather.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience operating tractors, chainsaws, woodchippers, a Bobcat, zero-turn lawnmowers, snow blower, snowplow, and other related equipment.
• A team player with willingness to help other departments as needed.
• Ability to quickly learn and use company-specific software and technology tools.
• Ability to supervise volunteers and other assigned labor sources.

Dodge Nature Center and Preschool is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We encourage applicants and staff to bring their diverse perspectives, skills, and experiences to Dodge. We commit to fostering an inclusive, welcoming work environment for all employees.

How to Apply

Application deadline: Monday, August 31. Please send your resume and cover letter to:

Sean Gokey, Buildings and Grounds Director
[email protected]
365 Marie Avenue W
West St. Paul, MN 55118