Grounds Manager

Grounds Manager

St. Thomas University - Physical Plant

The Grounds Manager oversees the planning, maintenance, and enhancement of the university's outdoor grounds, gardens, walkways, and campus green spaces. This role supports a safe, welcoming, and aesthetically pleasing environment that reflects the mission, values, and standards of a private Catholic institution.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage daily landscape and grounds operations across campus.
• Supervise landscape staff, student workers, and contractors as needed.
• Plan and schedule routine maintenance, seasonal plantings, pruning, irrigation, mowing, fertilization, and pest control.
• Inspect campus grounds regularly to ensure landscapes, hardscapes, and outdoor features are well maintained.
• Coordinate work in a way that supports academic calendars, campus events, liturgical celebrations, and university activities.
• Oversee the care of lawns, trees, shrubs, flower beds, courtyards, entryways, and exterior common areas.
• Monitor equipment, tools, materials, and supplies, and ensure proper maintenance and inventory control.
• Communicate with university leadership, facilities staff, and campus departments regarding ground needs and projects.
• Help maintain safe walking surfaces, manage storm cleanup, and respond to urgent grounds issues.
• Support environmentally responsible and sustainable landscaping practices.
• Assist with budgeting, vendor coordination, and project planning.
• Promote a campus environment that reflects excellence, stewardship, and care for the university community.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required; associate or bachelor's degree in horticulture, landscape management, facilities management, or a related field preferred.
• Several years of experience in landscape maintenance, grounds supervision, or campus operations.
• Knowledge of plant care, turf management, irrigation systems, and landscape maintenance best practices.
• Experience leading crews and coordinating work schedules.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a higher education environment.
• Strong communication, organization, and problem-solving skills.
• Valid driver's license required; certifications in pesticide application, irrigation, or related areas preferred.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience working in higher education, institutional, or large-campus settings.
• Familiarity with campus planning, outdoor event support, and seasonal grounds preparation.
• Understanding of Catholic university values and the ability to support a mission-driven environment.
• Knowledge of sustainable landscaping, water conservation, and native plant care.
• Ability to work collaboratively with facilities, maintenance, security, events, and administrative teams.

Working Conditions :

This position works primarily outdoors and may require exposure to heat, humidity, weather changes, and physical labor. The role may also include office-based work such as scheduling, budgeting, reporting, and coordination with university departments.

• Ability to stand, walk, bend, lift, and carry materials for extended periods.
• Ability to operate landscape equipment safely.
• Ability to respond to urgent grounds issues and campus service needs.

Application Process:

To apply for the Grounds Manager position, please submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your relevant experience and why you are a perfect fit for the role.

Company Values :

At St. Thomas University, we are committed to creating a cleaner and safer environment for everyone. We value teamwork, integrity, and dedication in our pursuit of excellence. Join us to be part of a dynamic team striving for high-quality service delivery.