Grounds Keeper

Job Title

School Groundskeeper

Job Summary

The School Groundskeeper is responsible for maintaining the appearance, safety, and functionality of all school grounds. This position performs routine landscaping, lawn care, snow and ice removal (when applicable), athletic field maintenance, and general outdoor maintenance to provide a clean, safe, and attractive environment for students, staff, and visitors.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Mow, edge, trim, and fertilize lawns and landscaped areas.
• Plant, water, prune, and maintain trees, shrubs, flowers, and other vegetation.
• Remove weeds, leaves, litter, and debris from school grounds, parking lots, sidewalks, and playgrounds.
• Maintain athletic fields, tracks, and outdoor recreational areas.
• Operate and maintain landscaping equipment such as mowers, trimmers, blowers, tractors, and utility vehicles.
• Perform seasonal duties including snow and ice removal, leaf collection, and irrigation system maintenance.
• Inspect school grounds for hazards and promptly address safety concerns.
• Assist with setting up and taking down equipment for school events and outdoor activities.
• Perform minor repairs to fences, signs, benches, playground equipment, and other outdoor fixtures.
• Follow all district safety procedures and properly use personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Maintain equipment and report maintenance or repair needs.
• Work collaboratively with custodial, maintenance, and administrative staff.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent preferred.
• Previous experience in landscaping, grounds maintenance, or a related field is preferred.
• Knowledge of lawn care, landscaping practices, irrigation systems, and safe equipment operation.
• Valid driver's license may be required.
• Ability to obtain required certifications as determined by the school district.

Skills and Abilities

• Ability to safely operate landscaping and grounds maintenance equipment.
• Basic mechanical aptitude for routine equipment maintenance.
• Strong attention to detail.
• Good communication and teamwork skills.
• Ability to prioritize tasks and work independently with minimal supervision.
• Commitment to maintaining a safe and welcoming school environment.

Physical Requirements

• Frequently lift and carry up to 50 pounds.
• Stand, walk, bend, kneel, climb, and work outdoors for extended periods.
• Work in varying weather conditions, including heat, cold, rain, and snow.
• Safely operate power equipment and hand tools.

Work Environment

This position primarily works outdoors and may be exposed to varying weather conditions, noise from power equipment, dust, pollen, and other environmental conditions associated with grounds maintenance.

Reports To

Facilities Manager, Director of Maintenance, or Head Custodian (as assigned by the school district).