Groundskeeper

Job Summary:

Transport materials and/or equipment and perform duties consistent with the maintenance of the grounds and campus landscape areas in accordance with University standards and procedures for University buildings or properties.

Responsibilities:

• Weeds turf areas, ground cover, and flowerbeds.

• Prunes trees and shrubs.

• Mows and trims turf areas, rakes and removes leaves; inspects areas keeps them free of trash and debris.

• Performs landscape renovations such as seeding, sodding, mulch installation, and small tree removal.

• Removes snow from walks, drives, parking lots, steps and building entrances. Applies anti-icing and de-icing compounds to paved areas.

• Picks up items such as rubbish, furniture or equipment and transports to specified destination for delivery or disposal.

• Works with garbage contractor to complete the removal of garbage and debris from University sites.

• Empties garbage cans throughout campus and disposes of bags at designated University site.

• Operates all mechanized equipment consistent with the maintenance of grounds.

• Drives all University supplied vehicles.

• Assists in special events.

• Performs maintenance and repairs to ground sprinklers, boxes, and heads.

• Maintains shop supplied power tools, hand tools, and equipment.

• Helps introduce new employees to shop protocol, procedures and campus applications and equipment.

• Requisitions materials and supplies using in-house procedures as needed. Keeps working area safe and clean.

• Wears and/or uses appropriate safety equipment.

• Uses computers to enter and access job related information.

• Undertakes training related to job duties as deemed necessary by the University.

• Performs related job duties as may be assigned.

Education, Experience, or Certifications:

Education:

• High school diploma or general education degree (GED) from an accredited institution, required.
• College degree in horticulture, landscape services or related degree is preferred.

   Experience:

• Two years related experience, or an equivalent combination of position-related education and experience is required.
• Completion of job-related apprenticeship program is preferred.
• Background working on irrigation systems preferred.

Certifications:

• Current valid driver's license and successfully complete the University’s Motor Vehicle Record Check process required.
• Illinois Pesticide Operator’s license within six months of employment required.
• Other licenses or certificates needed for this position as required by law.

Technical Knowledge or Skills:

• Access computer programs and use or learn basic computer operations related to position requirements.
• Read and interpret documents.
• Communicate effectively in English, both orally and in writing.
• Perform mathematical functions relevant to the position.
• Strong problem-solving skills.
• Advanced job-related training programs is preferred.