Maintenance Technician, Level I, Groundskeeper

SUMMARY STATEMENT

The Maintenance Technician, Level 1, Groundskeeper is responsible for maintaining the conditions and appearance of the grounds of the campus. This position will maintain the condition and appearance of the lawns, gardens, sidewalks, roadways, bio-swales, and athletic fields. The maintenance technician groundskeeper will have to keep grounds clear of trash, trim and prune trees and shrubs, remove leaves, keep roads and sidewalks clear of trash, leaves, and debris. This position will perform basic maintenance on grounds equipment. This position assists with snow and ice removal. This position involves some amount of independent work, as well as working under the direction of the grounds supervisor. A key component of this position is the dual responsibility of both maintenance and grounds keeping. During days of inclement weather and during winter months the Maintenance Technician, Level 1, Groundskeeper will be assigned by the grounds supervisor to perform regular routine maintenance task.

ORGANIZATIONAL RELATIONSHIPS

The Maintenance Technician, Level 1, Groundskeeper reports directly to the grounds supervisor. This position will work closely with other grounds workers, Garden volunteers, HCC students, and HCC personnel.

DUTIES

Performs grounds keeping, landscaping and minor maintenance duties.

1. Minor mowing and edging sidewalks and curbs.

2. Prune trees and shrubs.

3. Mulch gardens and tree rings.

4. Remove weeds and unwanted debris in gardens and landscaped areas.

5. Remove leaves.

6. Gather and remove trash around campus.

7. Operate a variety of landscaping equipment (mowers, trimmers, blowers, chainsaw, Bed Edger)

8. Operate larger equipment (trucks, dump trucks, tractors, large and small backhoe, mini excavator, Kubota UTV, Bobcat Toolcat machine).

9. Minor maintenance and repairs on grounds equipment.

10. Operate and maintain irrigation system on soccer field.

11. Remove snow from all sidewalks, stairs, parking lots, and roadways. Apply salt when required.

12. Maintain outdoor athletic facilities with the help of athletic department.

13. Assist with special events and other duties as assigned.

14. During inclement weather and periods of inactivity in the area of grounds keeping the employee will remain available for additional assignments from their direct supervisor.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

1. High school diploma supplemented by specialized training in landscaping and 3-5 years of experience maintaining grounds and outdoor facilities.

2. Advanced training in landscaping or horticulture preferred.

3. Knowledge of trees, shrubs, flowers and planning and growing techniques suitable for this area.

4. Experience in operation and routine servicing of lawn and landscaping equipment, irrigation, basic plumbing and electrical knowledge and skills is highly desirable.

5. Ability to read, write, and follow instructions.

6. Knowledge of occupational hazards and standard safety procedures or any equivalent combination of experiences and training which provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities.

SKILLS AND ABILITIES

1. Read, understand, and follow policies and procedures. Follow oral and written directions. Read and interpret blueprints, diagrams and sketches.

2. Safely and effectively operate tools and equipment used in the maintenance of buildings and grounds.

3. Communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing; establish and maintain effective working relationships.

4. Know and apply safety codes and regulations.

5. Keep simple records and reports and work from oral and written directions.

6. Lift 50 pounds without assistance and heavy items with assistance. Required to perform strenuous manual task for long periods of time in both hot and cold weather.

7. Work independently in the absence of detailed instructions when necessary and work under direct supervision from grounds supervisor when required.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

1. Valid motor vehicle operator’s license required.

2. Possess, or willing to acquire, valid and applicable licenses and permits for application of lawn and garden herbicides, pesticides, and fertilizer.

WORKING ENVIRONMENT

Travel on and around campus grounds. Heavy lifting, exposure to chemicals, including herbicides and pesticides. Exposure to bugs, insects, animals, and various poisonous plants. This position will be required to work outdoors in extreme weather conditions ( Heat, cold, rain, snow, wind). Certain taskS may require wearing protective equipment for long periods of time ( helmet, safety glasses, mask, respirators, gloves). Personal and public safety rules are expected to be followed at all times. This position is considered an essential position.