Director of Grounds

The Director of Grounds is responsible for overseeing the maintenance, care, and improvement of all outdoor facilities, including playgrounds, landscaping, and other school district grounds. This position ensures that all grounds are safe, functional, and aesthetically maintained to support the learning environment. The Director will manage personnel, budgets, and purchasing while ensuring compliance with district policies and regulations.

Key Responsibilities:

Grounds Maintenance & Operations:

• Develop and implement a comprehensive plan for grounds maintenance, including landscaping, irrigation, pest control, and turf management.
  
  
• Supervise and coordinate the upkeep of school grounds, playgrounds, and outdoor facilities.
  
  
• Oversee seasonal maintenance tasks such as leaf disposal and storm damage cleanup.
  
  
• Ensure compliance with environmental and safety regulations.
  
  

Personnel Management:

• Supervise, train, and evaluate groundskeeping staff, ensuring high performance and adherence to district standards.
  
  
• Develop work schedules and assign tasks to maximize efficiency and productivity.
  
  
• Provide professional development opportunities for staff.
  
  

Budgeting & Purchasing:

• Prepare and manage the department’s budget, ensuring cost-effective operations.
  
  
• Oversee purchasing of supplies, equipment, and services related to grounds maintenance.
  
  
• Evaluate and approve vendor contracts and service agreements.
  
  
• Ensure compliance with procurement regulations and district policies.
  
  

Facility Planning & Improvement:

• Collaborate with administrators and district leadership to plan long-term grounds improvement projects.
  
  
• Make recommendations on facility upgrades, renovations, and landscaping enhancements.
  
  
• Oversee capital improvement projects related to outdoor facilities.
  
  

Administrative & Compliance Responsibilities:

• Maintain accurate records of maintenance schedules, equipment inventory, and purchasing.
  
  
• Ensure compliance with local, state, and federal regulations regarding grounds maintenance and safety.
  
  
• Develop and enforce safety protocols for groundskeeping operations.
  
  
• Conduct inspections and address concerns regarding grounds’ conditions.
  
  

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree.
  
  
• Minimum of 5 years of experience within a school district.
  
  
• Administrative and purchasing experience required.
  
  
• Strong leadership, organizational, and communication skills.
  
  
• Knowledge of landscaping, turf management, irrigation systems, and pest control.
  
  
• Experience with budget management and procurement processes.
  
  
• Ability to work with diverse stakeholders, including staff, contractors, and district leadership.
  
  

Work Environment:

• Majority of work is performed outdoors with exposure to varying weather conditions.
  
  
• May require lifting, bending, and operating maintenance equipment.
  
  
• Some evening and weekend work may be necessary for special events or emergencies.
  
  

Application Process:

Interested candidates should submit a resume, cover letter, and references to the Pine Bluff School District Retention and Recruitment Department. https://pinebluffschools.schoolspring.com/