About this opportunity
The Town of Westbrook, Connecticut is hiring a Groundman II for its Public Works Department. This is an entry-level field position focused on manual labor, maintenance, and support work across town-owned properties and infrastructure. The role sits within the department that keeps the town's roads, grounds, and public facilities operational year-round. Westbrook is a small coastal town in Middlesex County, with a population of around 7,000 that swells in the summer months. The Public Works Department handles everything from road repairs and drainage to grounds maintenance at town buildings and parks. A Groundman II typically works outdoors in all weather conditions, supporting skilled tradespeople and responding to the daily needs of the town's physical plant. The work is physical and hands-on. You would be digging, lifting, hauling materials, operating basic tools, and assisting with repairs and maintenance tasks. It suits someone who prefers working outside to sitting at a desk, and who does not mind getting dirty. The town offers stable municipal employment with the usual public-sector benefits, including health coverage and retirement contributions.
Responsibilities
- Perform manual labor tasks such as digging, lifting, and hauling materials for Public Works projects
- Assist skilled workers with maintenance and repair of town roads, sidewalks, and drainage systems
- Operate hand tools and basic power equipment under supervision
- Load and unload trucks, equipment, and supplies at town facilities and job sites
- Maintain cleanliness and organization of work areas, vehicles, and equipment yards
- Support seasonal tasks like leaf collection, snow removal, and storm cleanup
- Follow safety protocols and wear required personal protective equipment
- Respond to work orders from the Public Works supervisor or department head
Benefits
- Health insurance coverage through the town's municipal plan
- Paid vacation, sick leave, and personal days
- Participation in the Connecticut Municipal Employees' Retirement System
- Overtime pay for hours worked beyond the standard schedule
- Job security with a stable, year-round municipal employer
Requirements & Qualifications
- High school diploma or GED equivalent
- Valid Connecticut driver's license
- Ability to perform heavy physical labor for extended periods
- Willingness to work outdoors in all weather conditions, including heat, cold, and rain
- Basic ability to read and follow written instructions and safety guidelines
- Prior experience in construction, landscaping, or municipal maintenance is helpful but not required
- Must pass a pre-employment background check and physical examination
- Must be available for occasional overtime, including emergency call-ins during storms
How to Apply
- Prepare a resume and any relevant certifications or references.
- Submit your application materials through the Town of Westbrook's employment portal.
- Click the Apply button below to submit your application.
Official Application Strategy & Insights
Selection Committee Priorities
- •Academic/Professional Alignment: Ensure your statement explicitly ties your past work in to Town of Westbrook's strategic goals.
- •Leadership Evidence: Selection panels heavily weigh demonstrated initiative, community impact, or research output.
- •Financial & Language Prerequisites: Confirm if Medium of Instruction (MOI) certificates can substitute for formal standardized language test fees.
Required Document Verification
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