Groundskeeper

GroundskeeperThe Groundskeeper is responsible for maintaining the campus grounds to ensure a healthy, attractive, and safe environment. This includes care and upkeep of turf, athletic fields, irrigation systems, and groundskeeping equipment. The Groundskeeper will also support seasonal needs, such as snow removal, and provide direction to student grounds assistants.Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:Turf ManagementIrrigate, fertilize, apply weed control, and mow campus-wide turf to ensure healthy growth and aesthetic appeal.Athletic Field MaintenanceMow, fertilize, aerate, and weed athletic fields to maintain safe, attractive conditions for sports activities.Landscape and Tree CarePerform general landscaping duties, including tree care, planting, mulching, and pruning, to enhance campus grounds.Equipment MaintenanceMaintain, service, and repair groundskeeping machinery and equipment to ensure safety and functionality.Snow and Ice ManagementProvide timely snow removal and ice management to maintain safe campus pathways during winter months.Student SupervisionCo-supervise student grounds assistants, providing direction to ensure tasks are completed accurately, safely, and efficiently.QualificationsEducation and ExperienceHigh school diploma or GED required; a one-year certificate from a college or technical school is preferred.3-5 years of experience in groundskeeping, with expertise in turf management and irrigation systems.Familiarity with specialized practices and procedures in grounds and equipment maintenance.Certificates, Licenses, and RegistrationsValid Michigan driver's license.Michigan Pesticide Applicator's License or willingness to obtain upon hire.Communication SkillsProfessional communication skills, including greeting callers and visitors, providing information, and handling inquiries about campus grounds.Ability to interpret blueprints, diagrams, and schematics, with occasional proofreading tasks.Decision-Making and ComplexityAble to follow established procedures, and exercise independent judgment in organizing work and setting priorities to achieve desired results.Physical Demands / Work EnvironmentThis position involves physical demands and exposure to various outdoor conditions. Reasonable accommodations may be made for individuals with disabilities.Regular walking, standing, lifting, and carrying objects (up to 50 lbs).Use of groundskeeping equipment, with exposure to noise, temperature fluctuations, and potentially hazardous chemicals.Operation of heavy equipment and vehicles as required.Working RelationshipsThis role involves collaboration with peers and interaction with students, faculty, and staff. Regular communication with campus community members and routine problem-solving are key aspects of the role.Other RequirementsAvailability to respond to emergencies as needed.Strong independent judgment and time management skills.Commitment to the educational mission of Calvin as a Christian liberal arts University affiliated with the Christian Reformed Church.A commitment to the Christian faith and to the integration of faith, learning, and student development.Demonstrated awareness and commitment to effectively establishing relationships and positive communication across multiple dimensions of diversity including, but not limited to, race, gender, physical limitations, class, or religious perspectives.