District Grounds

Job Summary

Southeast Polk Community School District is seeking a District Groundskeeper to ensure all district grounds, athletic fields, and outdoor spaces are maintained in a safe, attractive, and functional condition.

Responsibilities

• Perform routine and seasonal grounds maintenance, including mowing, trimming, edging, seeding, fertilizing, watering, aerating, and weed control.
• Maintain landscaped areas, trees, shrubs, and flower beds through pruning, mulching, and replacement planting.
• Operate and maintain equipment such as mowers, snow plows, skid-steers, tractors, trimmers, blowers, and related attachments.
• Assist with snow and ice removal by operating plows, spreading salt or ice melt, and performing manual shoveling as needed.
• Prepare and maintain athletic fields, playgrounds, and outdoor activity areas for school and community use.
• Perform minor repairs and preventive maintenance on vehicles and grounds equipment.
• Inspect assigned areas regularly to identify hazards or maintenance needs and report them promptly.
• Absorb substitute for building-based custodial absences, as directed.
• Maintain accurate records of work performed, materials used, and equipment maintenance.
• Follow district safety protocols, including use of personal protective equipment and safe chemical handling.
• Attend required training and staff meetings.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or equivalent.
• Valid Class B Commercial Driver License (CDL), with airbrake endorsement, or ability to obtain within 90 days of hire, including successful completion of required testing and licensing.
• Basic preventive maintenance skills for small engines, power equipment, and vehicles.
• Ability to read and follow work orders, safety instructions, and equipment manuals.
• Ability to complete basic mathematical calculations to measure materials, distances, and quantities.
• Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team to complete assigned work safely and efficiently.
• Commitment to maintaining a safe, clean, and organized work environment.
• Maintain all licenses and certifications required for assigned duties.

Desired Qualifications

• Previous experience operating snow plows, skid-steers, tractors, or other light commercial construction or grounds equipment.
• Experience with turf care, landscaping, irrigation systems, tree and shrub maintenance, and athletic field preparation.
• Familiarity with chemical handling and application safety procedures.
• Valid State of Iowa 3OT Ornamental and Turf Pest Control applicators license.

Physical Demands

• Ability to stand, walk, bend, stoop, and lift for extended periods.
• Must be capable of lifting up to 50 pounds and performing physically demanding outdoor work in all weather conditions.
• Ability to operate and perform maintenance on motorized equipment and tools.

Terms of Employment

• Twelve-month employment.
• Hours and work as assigned by the Maintenance and Grounds Supervisor or Director of Buildings and Grounds.
• Salary determined by negotiated agreement.

Evaluation

Performance of this job will be evaluated annually in accordance with provisions of the Board's policy on Evaluation of Classified Personnel.

Disclaimer

The Southeast Polk Community School District does not discriminate based on race, color, creed, sex, national origin, religion, age, sexual orientation, marital status, gender identity, or disability.