Equipment Grounds Worker I - Pflaum - 1.0 FTE - 26-27 SY

MMSD is seeking highly motivated and energetic applicants with a good attitude, willingness to learn, and passion for impactful work.

About the role

Under the direct supervision of the Assistant Director of Building Services and the direction of the Lead Groundsworker, this position is responsible for operating motor vehicles and equipment, performing grounds maintenance, constructing and maintaining athletic fields and playgrounds, conducting snow removal, warehouse tasks, and supporting special projects. This role requires a high degree of integrity, a commitment to continuous improvement, and dedication to fostering an inclusive work environment with a growth mindset.

Responsibilities

• Grounds & Exterior Maintenance (55%)
  • Perform landscaping and grounds maintenance including mowing, trimming, pruning, and general upkeep of fields, green spaces, and school grounds
  • Construct, repair, and maintain athletic fields, playgrounds, and related equipment
  • Lay out and mark athletic fields according to District standards
  • Install, maintain, and repair fencing, blacktop, and concrete surfaces
  • Operate snow removal equipment to maintain safe access during winter conditions
• Equipment & Vehicle Operations (20%)
  • Repair and maintain ground equipment
  • Perform routine maintenance on District vehicles
  • Operate pallet trucks, forklifts, and other powered equipment in accordance with safety standards
• Transportation & Delivery Support (15%)
  • Transport mail, packages, materials, and food service items between District locations
  • Complete delivery routes according to established schedules and expectations
  • Load and unload materials safely and efficiently
  • Maintain accurate delivery records
• Compliance & Operational Support (5%)
  • Coordinate with vendors to communicate service expectations and ensure task completion
  • Maintain stock levels and obtain necessary materials in accordance with procedures
  • Respond in a timely manner to communications
  • Adhere to District dress code and identification requirements
• Other Duties as Assigned (5%)
  • Perform other related duties and complete district-required training
  • Build collaborative relationships with business partners

Requirements

• Demonstrated ability to establish relationships at all levels of the organization
• Commitment to principles and practices that promote anti-racism, diversity, equity, and inclusion
• Reliable attendance and punctuality
• Ability to train and support other grounds staff
• Ability to install, maintain, lay out, and repair athletic fields, playgrounds, and grounds infrastructure
• Ability to operate grounds equipment, including front-end loader, skid steer, gang mowers, tractors, and snow removal equipment
• Ability to read, follow directions, and maintain records
• Ability to interact and communicate effectively with all district personnel, including staff, students, and the community
• Ability to complete work orders and tasks in a timely manner
• Ability to work with a team or independently with limited supervision
• Ability to inventory stock, purchase materials, and maintain accurate records
• Knowledge of industrial and safety practices
• Physical ability to perform tasks requiring walking, lifting, climbing, bending, reaching, and kneeling
• Knowledge of concrete and blacktop paving, landscaping, turf management, irrigation, and soil conditioning
• Experience completing tasks in a role with limited supervision
• Experience working cross-culturally and/or commitment to developing cultural competence
• Prior experience as a Groundsworker or commercial experience preferred
• Valid Wisconsin driver's license and ability to be insured by the District
• Ability to test and obtain a Commercial Driver's License preferred

Physical Requirements

This job is physically demanding—medium to heavy work. The position requires:

• Constant standing, walking, moving, bending, stooping, and lifting loads up to 50+ pounds
• Pushing or pulling loads up to 75+ pounds
• Frequent sitting, driving, squatting, crouching, ladder and stair climbing (up to 30 ft heights), crawling, reaching, kneeling, and repetitive hand movements
• Ability to remain stationary for extended periods
• Frequent use of near and far vision acuity, depth perception, accommodation, field of vision, and tactile sensitivity
• Frequent verbal and auditory communication

Working Conditions

• Travel to different locations within the district and off-site locations
• Work in a variety of indoor and outdoor environments, including inclement weather, non-air-conditioned spaces, and areas with fluctuating temperatures
• Work evenings, nights, and some weekends
• In-person work unless otherwise directed by the Assistant Director of Building Services or designee

Pay

Starting compensation: $29.79 hourly wage (26-27 Salary Schedule).

Schedule

Tuesday - Saturday, varied hours.

About MMSD

The Madison Metropolitan School District (MMSD) is the second-largest school district in Wisconsin, serving over 25,000 students from diverse backgrounds. More than half of our students are students of color, nearly half come from low-income households, and over 100 languages are represented in our schools. MMSD is committed to being anti-racist, culturally responsive, and inclusive, with a vision to ensure every school is a thriving school where all children achieve academically and graduate ready for college, career, and community.