GROUNDS NURERSY II - Lead Athletics @ UNC 6/2026

Job Summary Plans, coordinates, and performs in a designated work zone. Primary duties include the maintenance and care of all outdoor sports fields and facilities including three synthetic fields, track and field facilities, practice fields, soccer, softball, baseball fields and the respective perimeter landscapes of these facilities. Performs duties to establish and maintain the formal, natural, and desirable landscape features including but are not limited to lawns, gardens, trees, irrigation systems, sports fields, stadiums, and other outdoor areas belonging to the University and under the general expectations and established procedures identified by the grounds manager. Position performs game preparation activities and coordination with team members and other University departments. As work lead, this position will coordinate resources for assigned zone gardeners and assist manager with planning, resource identification and quality control. Job Responsibilities Performs and directs all activities associated with sports field maintenance and athletic event preparation. Activities include but are not limited to: field marking and painting mowing infield grading irrigation repair operation and scheduling pesticide, and fertilizer applications scheduling aerification and top dressing installing base anchors, edging outfields trash removal, bleacher staging and event prep line marking in accordance with NCAA and sport regulation guidelines Primary point of contact for athletic events. Weekend sporting event support is required. Monitors turf health and determines mowing schedules. Assists grounds manager in coordination of operations for area zone gardeners and seasonal staff. Operates PTO and front‑mounted mowers, push mowers, riding mowers, small tractors, zero‑turn mowers, edgers, and string trimmers as needed. Applies fertilizers, herbicides, insecticides, and fungicides in collaboration with licensed spray technician. Manages synthetic turf care activities including sweeping, grooming, amending fibers and crumb rubber; monitors rubber crumb depth; repairs seams and fibers; coordinates application of antibiotics and snow removal. Co‑ordinates with athletic schedules and notifies appropriate staff. Engages coaches and athletic staff regarding field condition. Performs snow removal activities, applies ice‑melt products, and assists snow removal operations as work lead. Monitors watering needs, performs coverage tests, assists irrigation technician with programming and scheduling, troubleshoots irrigation failures, repairs or assists with mainline repairs, system installs and renovations. Operates heavy equipment: backhoes, skid‑steers, fork trucks, 1‑ton trucks, tractors, contractors. Performs tree removal and pruning, aerial lift operations, and Vermeer Chipper usage. Maintains equipment through fluid checks and lubrication. Must possess a valid driver’s license and comply with Federal/CDOT Motor Carrier Regulations. Residency Requirement This posting is only open to residents of the State of Colorado at the time of submitting your application. Class Code D8E2XX – GROUNDS AND NURSERY II. Minimum Qualifications Two (2) years of relevant experience in an occupation related to the work assigned to this position. Preferred Qualifications 2‑5 years turf and field management experience. Certification in turf management, sports field management or related education. Strong leadership in maintaining accountability and productivity. Ability to collaborate with coaches, athletic staff, and students. Strong decision‑making skills in a fast‑paced environment. Conditions for Employment All potential University of Northern Colorado employees may be subject to successful completion of a background check, motor vehicle record review, physical evaluation, and/or a drug test. EEO Statement The State of Colorado is an equal opportunity employer committed to building inclusive, innovative work environments. Employment opportunities are provided to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, medical condition related to pregnancy, creed, ancestry, national origin, marital status, genetic information, or military status (with preference given to veterans). The University of Northern Colorado is committed to the full inclusion of all qualified individuals. The agency will assist individuals with disabilities with reasonable accommodation requests. #J-18808-Ljbffr