Groundskeeper

Job Summary

The Groundskeeper is responsible for maintaining landscape and hardscape by planting, weeding, trimming landscape and operating landscaping equipment.

Maintains plant materials

• mowing
• edging
• trimming
• weeding
• planting
• applying water
• applying fertilizer
• applying other chemicals to plants and landscape

Maintains hardscape appearance

• picking up papers and trash
• painting
• installing and repairing signs
• stripping parking lots
• digging
• grading and repairing surfaces

Maintains irrigation systems

• testing
• installing
• repairing

Operates commercial landscaping equipment

• operating large mowers
• operating backhoes
• operating bobcats

Achieves daily work objectives

• developing
• constructing
• repairing
• maintaining landscape and hardscape projects

Maintains supplies inventory

• checking stock to determine inventory level
• anticipating needed supplies
• placing and expediting orders for supplies
• verifying receipt of supplies

Complies with safety regulations

• identifying and anticipating safety and health concerns
• enforcing adherence to regulations
• advising management on needed actions

Maintains tools and equipment

• completing preventive maintenance requirements
• following manufacturer's instructions
• troubleshooting malfunctions
• calling for repairs
• maintaining equipment inventories
• evaluating new equipment and techniques

Maintains continuity among work teams

• documenting and communicating actions, irregularities and continuing needs

Required Education & Experience

• sufficient education to demonstrate literacy
• 1 year experience in the care of plants, trees, and lawns, including operation of grounds equipment

Preferred Education & Experience

• none

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• ability to operate equipment required to perform the job
• ability to read, write, understand and clearly communicate instructions
• ability to apply care and maintenance techniques to landscape and hardscape materials

Physical Requirements

• visual acuity to read information from computer screens, forms, instructions, labels and other printed materials and information
• speaking (enunciating) clearly in conversation and general communication
• hearing ability for verbal communication/conversation/responses via telephone, telephone systems, and face-to-face interactions
• manual dexterity for typing, writing, standing and reaching, flexibility, body movement for bending, crouching, walking, kneeling, climbing ladders and stairs, and prolonged sitting
• lifting and moving objects and equipment up to 50 lbs.

Work Environment

• outdoors under variable weather conditions that can, at times, be extreme (high temperature and humidity levels, as well as freezing & icy water)
• not sedentary and is subject to schedule changes and/or variable work hours
• exposed to hazardous materials and noxious fumes on occasion, chemical fertilizers
• noise level in this work environment is usually moderate, but can be noisy at times due to powered equipment
• this is an on-campus and in-person role