Lead Groundskeeper

Job Summary

Participates in the daily operations and maintenance of lawns, planting beds, campus walkways, campus roads, parking lots and outdoor athletic facilities, along with other associated tasks as directed by the Grounds Supervisor. Performs duties in assigned areas and provides guidance and support to and occasionally works alongside Grounds team members in their assigned area(s). Assists the Grounds Supervisor in ensuring that all duties in all assigned area(s) are done safely, completely, and in a timely fashion. Assists with the maintenance of grounds equipment and vehicles. In the Supervisor’s absence, the Lead Groundskeeper performs the Supervisor’s duties.

The hours for this position are 7:00am to 3:30pm Monday through Friday. Salary Grade Essential Functions Performs all assigned duties, including:Operating grounds maintenance vehicles, tools and equipment and assisting with their maintenance.Planting, mowing, fertilizing, weeding, mulching and pruning. Maintaining grass, trees, shrubs and other plantings as directed.Removing snow with plows, power brushes, snow blowers, snow shovels and applying de-icing products.Performing outdoor garbage removal and litter pick up as needed.Moving supplies and equipment and storing them as directed.Supporting athletic field maintenance and repairs.Assisting with hardscape installations, maintenance and repairs including benches, pavers, blocks, decorative stone and border edging. Provides guidance and support to and occasionally works alongside other Grounds team members, completing the above-listed duties in their assigned area(s).Organizes own work, sets priorities, and keeps to established schedules or deadlines.Follows department policies and procedures relating to assigned duties.Ensures the safety of Grounds team through regular safety inspections of equipment and review of procedures.Inspects work as assigned, providing guidance and training for areas in need of improvement.Discusses concerns regarding any recurrent performance problems with the Grounds Supervisor as needed.Follows additional guidance from the Grounds Supervisor regarding performance improvement measures and/or training to be provided in relation to performance improvement.Participates in selected seminars and other training to improve and update methods, equipment, and supplies.Participates in training and evaluation of student employees.Establishes, maintains, and fosters positive and effective working relationship with those contacted in the course of work. Other Duties and Responsibilities Demonstrates strong commitment to continuous improvement.Supports the University’s mission, values, and vision.Performs all other duties as assigned. Minimum Qualifications Ability to work well with students, faculty, staff and the general public.Valid driver’s license and ability to obtain a Class C license.Illinois pesticide operator’s and/or applicator’s license (or commitment to achieve one within a year). Preferred Qualifications Some grounds maintenance experience, including snow removal.Ability to operate a forklift, tractor, bobcat, dump truck and other maintenance vehicles, knowledge of plants, shrubs and trees are a plus but not essential. Will train as needed. Working Conditions/Physical Requirements Employee is subject to both indoor and outdoor environmental conditions (temperatures varying from below 32 degrees to over 90 degrees) for periods of over one hour, subject to hazards such as proximity to moving parts, electrical current, etc., and involves heavy work exerting up to 100 pounds of force occasionally, and/or in excess of 50 pounds frequently, and/or up to 20 pounds of force constantly in order to move objects. Must be able to climb stairs and ladders and lift 50 pounds. Work Hours Posting Date 07/09/2024 Closing Date Open Until Filled Yes

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