Groundsperson

Non-exempt, full-time continuing position (52 weeks per year, 40 hours per week) with full benefits. Regional geographical location; relocation reimbursement not available.

About the role

Under the direction of the Landscaping Services Director, perform highly skilled trades duties in a variety of landscape and hardscape work on the College’s historical campus, waterfront, and athletic fields. These positions are categorized as Emergency Support Services/Essential Staff. Must be willing and able to work during emergency closures/delayed openings due to inclement weather or for significant events that affect campus operations. Applicants must also be willing to respond to emergencies on overtime (nights, weekends, or holidays) and participate in the Weekly On-Call Rotation Schedule, responding to calls within 15 minutes during assigned rotations.

Responsibilities

• Prepare, install, and maintain decorative landscaping features including flowers, plants, shrubs, ornamental grasses, trees, waterscapes, lighting, and decorative or synthetic materials in formal gardens, plant containers, borders, and island beds.
• Haul materials, fill, grade, and slope work sites; pull weeds, mulch, repair drip lines, water, and fertilize.
• Install and maintain turf by seeding, sodding, repairing, mowing, and fertilizing.
• Clear brush, debris, and leaves from lawns and catch basins.
• Install, maintain, and regulate irrigation systems.
• Install and maintain recreational sports fields.
• Operate and maintain large and small power and construction equipment, including bucket/boom trucks, front loaders, backhoes, bulldozers, forklifts, tractors, dump trucks (5+ ton capacity), plow and pickup trucks, trailers, street sweepers, leaf vacuums, wood chippers, mowers, leaf blowers, weed whackers, and chainsaws.
• Maintain and repair small gas engine power equipment and large equipment, including oil and spark plug changes, blade sharpening, tire repair, fluid changes, and battery replacement.
• Use and maintain various hand tools; assist with setup and dismantling of plantings, fences, chairs, tents, bleachers, and tables for special events.
• Install and maintain fences, bollards, and signage campus-wide.
• Install, maintain, and repair asphalt pavement and other materials on traveled surfaces.
• Perform pre-treatment and snow and ice removal.
• Assist arborists with tree pruning or felling operations.
• Maintain orderliness and efficiency of landscape work sheds and surrounding areas; remove trash and change bins daily.
• Ensure all work processes comply with OSHA requirements, college policies, and procedures, including tracking work orders and service orders.
• May direct student workers, temporary workers, or contracted services as needed.
• May apply pesticides under direct supervision.
• May paint poles and other structures within the landscape.

Requirements

• 1–4 years of general experience in a related trade area.
• Demonstrated knowledge of various plants used in landscape features, proper plant care, and principles, methods, materials, tools, and equipment.
• Basic knowledge of turf grass management practices.
• Basic knowledge of pesticides and application methods.
• Interpersonal, oral, and written communication skills.
• Ability to keep shop records, interpret and read blueprints, and utilize computer software (CMMS).
• Must possess and maintain a valid driver’s license.

Preferred Qualifications

Combination of education and experience that enhances the required skills and knowledge.

Physical Demands

• Driving required.

Pay

Salary range starting at $20.05 per hour. Connecticut College is committed to fair and competitive compensation. The final offer will reflect the candidate’s experience, education, and the institution’s pay structure to ensure internal equity.