Groundskeeper

REPORTS TO: Assistant Director of Facilities Operations – Grounds

LOCATION : Campus Services – Appleton, WI

HOURS OF WORK : Typical hours 6:00 am to 2:30 pm;
Monday through Friday

PRIMARY OBJECTIVE :

The Groundskeeper is responsible for performing a wide range of tasks to ensure the maintenance and aesthetic quality of the campus grounds, including lawns, flowers, shrubs, trees, and snow removal. This role also supports other duties such as minor maintenance, moving equipment, and general outdoor cleaning. The Groundskeeper provides excellent customer service to all members of the campus community.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES :

General Grounds Maintenance:

• Care for and maintain campus grounds using proper landscaping methods to preserve and water plants, sod, and seed lawns.
• Prepare planting beds and install appropriate plant material with attention to campus aesthetics.
• Prune trees and shrubs to maintain healthy growth and appearance.
• Water lawns and other plantings as needed; maintain annual and perennial plants.
• Safely operate commercial mowers, trimmers, and other landscaping equipment to mow, edge, and trim lawns according to industry standards and safety guidelines.
• Clean campus by picking up litter and emptying outdoor trash receptacles, including those with large amounts of refuse or water.
• Rake or blow grass clippings and leaves and set up and operate sprinklers as needed.
• Assist in setting up grounds for campus events, ensuring readiness and cleanliness.
• Maintain athletic fields to the required specifications, including grading, dragging, and/or rolling playing surfaces.
• Set up field lines for athletic events and assist in the cleanup of fields and viewing areas after sports events.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Snow and Ice Maintenance:

• Remove snow and ice from sidewalks, parking lots, and roadways during winter months following appropriate procedures for safety.
• Spread salt and/or sand to prevent ice build-up and ensure safe walking conditions.
• Safely operate snow removal equipment and follow industry standards for snow management in a busy campus environment.
• Promptly report any safety hazards, maintenance issues, or equipment malfunctions related to snow removal or grounds upkeep.

KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS REQUIRED :

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Prefer 2-3 years of prior experience as a groundskeeper in a commercial or industrial setting.
• Must be able to lift up to 50 lbs.
• Ability to perform continuous physical activities, including bending, stooping, twisting, carrying items, reaching, pushing, pulling, climbing stairs, walking, and standing for extended periods.
• Capability to read and follow instructions, directions, and safety procedures accurately.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Equipment maintenance experience highly desired.
• Successful completion of a criminal background check, pre-employment physical, pre-work screen, and driving record check.

EQUIPMENT USED :

• University vehicles, snow removal equipment, and power mowers.
• Chainsaws, tractors with attachments, fertilizer spreaders, and lawn rollers.
• Skid steer, hand tools (e.g., hedge trimmers, pruners, shovels, rakes).
• Approved safety equipment as required.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS :

• Ability to work additional hours as necessary, including during inclement weather, commencement, reunion weekend, and other occasions requiring grounds or facilities participation.