Associate Director - (Grounds & Custodial)

About Us

Valdosta State University (VSU) is a comprehensive institution of the University System of Georgia, dedicated to serving our communities' rich and diverse heritages. Through excellence in teaching, basic and applied research, and service, VSU provides rigorous programs and opportunities that enrich our students, our university, and our region. The university is committed to core values of community, including civility, integrity, and citizenship, as reflected in the Blazer Creed.

Blazer Creed

Valdosta State University is a learning environment based on trust and mutual respect, where open dialogue, vigorous debate, and the free exchange of ideas are welcome. The core values of the university community are:

• Civility – A Blazer shows courtesy and compassion as well as respect for the dignity of every human being.
• Integrity – Each Blazer is responsible for their own actions, upholding principles of trust and honesty.
• Citizenship – Every Blazer contributes to the well-being of the community and supports those in need.

Responsibilities

Typical Allocation of Duties:

• Direct day-to-day operations (30%) – Assist in directing the day-to-day operations of the department or unit.
• Oversee and monitor (15%) – Oversee and monitor departmental or unit initiatives, programs, and events.
• Manage activities (15%) – Manage various activities for a specific department, unit, or function, including professional services as required.
• Supervise employees (15%) – Supervise and coordinate the selection, training, and development of employees.
• Represent the department (10%) – Represent the department at meetings, functions, or other activities.
• Assist with the budget (10%) – Provide assistance with budget development and monitoring.
• Assume duties (5%) – Assume the duties of the Chief Officer or Director in their absence.

Supervisor Expectations:

• Provide daily leadership and supervision of campus Grounds and Custodial staff, ensuring coverage, accountability, and quality performance.
• Conduct regular inspections to maintain a clean, safe, and visually appealing campus environment.
• Manage budgets, equipment, and materials efficiently while identifying cost-saving opportunities.
• Ensure compliance with all safety, chemical handling, and environmental regulations.
• Develop staff through training, performance evaluations, and consistent feedback.
• Coordinate support for campus events, emergencies, and seasonal operations.
• Communicate effectively with Facilities leadership, campus partners, and vendors.
• Use data and work order systems to track performance and drive continuous improvement.
• Promote a culture of customer service, teamwork, and pride in the campus appearance.
• Serve as essential personnel and in an on-call capacity for all urgent, after-hours emergencies, including natural disasters.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in a specified field and five (5) years of related work experience.
• Professional licensure, certification, and/or designation may be required in some areas.

Conditions of Employment

• Applicants must provide professional references with current contact information, documentation of academic credentials, and employment history.
• Employment is contingent upon successful completion of a background check investigation, including a criminal background check and reference checks.
• Additional job-based requirements may include a satisfactory credit check, Motor Vehicle Report (MVR), pre-employment drug testing, and confirmation of credentials.
• After hiring, employees must complete required training, including new employee orientation, annual compliance training (e.g., USG Ethics Policy, Sexual Misconduct and Title IX, FERPA), and job-specific training (e.g., FMLA, Workers' Compensation, Defensive Driving).