Grounds Supervisor

Loomis Chaffee is seeking an experienced a full-time Grounds Supervisor to join our community. The ideal candidates will work Monday - Friday 7:00 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. and supervise and direct the Grounds Crew.

Groundskeeping Supervision

• Supervise and direct groundskeeping crews in the planting, pruning, and cultivating of trees, shrubs, flowers, and lawns.
• Oversee the seeding, fertilizing, mowing, and trimming of all campus grounds to ensure cleanliness and visual appeal.
• Monitor grounds inventory systems, plan work assignments, and supervise the quality of services.

Vehicle and Equipment Maintenance

• Supervise vehicle mechanical maintenance and lawn equipment maintenance and physical plant vehicles.
• Oversee inspections for buses and student-carrying vehicles to ensure safety and regulatory compliance.
• Implement preventive maintenance plans and track equipment use and repairs.
• Oversee fuel delivery system, filling station and record keeping for both Diesel and Gasoline.

Snow Removal & Seasonal Operations

• Supervise and coordinate the removal of snow, ice, leaves, and debris from campus grounds.
• Train staff in snow removal processes and ensure proper maintenance of snow removal equipment.

Water Management & Landscaping Programs

• Oversee the operation, programming, and repairs of irrigation systems to ensure efficient water use and proper maintenance.
• Implement and monitor fertilization programs and ensure the proper use and storage of chemicals.
• Investigate and implement organic fertilizing methods.
• Develop and maintain cohesive landscaping plans to enhance campus aesthetics.
• Investigate and implement campus-wide mosquito and tick treatments.

Trash & Recycling Services

• Oversee campus-wide trash and recycling services to ensure cleanliness and proper waste management.

Vendor Coordination

• Collaborate with vendors for tree removal, maintenance, and new equipment demonstrations.
• Assist in selecting contractors and ensure projects are completed to specification.

Personnel Management, Training & Leadership

• Supervise, train, and evaluate groundskeeping personnel, promoting teamwork and fostering an environment of collaboration and respect.
• Provide clear direction, mentoring, and guidance to staff, encouraging professional growth and development.
• Actively listen to staff concerns, address issues constructively, and provide corrective feedback when necessary.
• Conduct difficult conversations with professionalism and empathy, ensuring alignment with departmental goals.
• Recruit, interview, and select new staff members as needed.
• Provide daily direction in line with policy guidelines and departmental standards.

Hockey Rink Operations

• Oversee staffing needs and the installation of ice and painting for the hockey rink as well as end of season breakdown.

Budgeting & Administrative Duties

• Prepare and manage annual equipment, supplies, and personnel budgets.
• Maintain accurate records of labor, materials, and costs.
• Order equipment and materials and prepare purchase orders with justifications.
• Responsible for approving and tracking invoices for payment.

Safety & Compliance

• Ensure compliance with federal and state regulations governing chemicals.
• Conduct regular inspections and report any safety issues or maintenance needs.
• Provide training on safe equipment operation and chemical handling.

Collaboration & Event Support

• Coordinate with other campus departments for special events and projects.
• Maintain a work environment that values diversity, respect, and cultural competence.

On-Call & Emergency Response

• Available for on-call work during emergencies, weather-related events, and special situations including snow removal.

Environmental Sustainability

• Implement and promote sustainable practices in groundskeeping and landscaping.
• Develop and maintain eco-friendly initiatives to reduce the campus's environmental footprint.
• Investigate and implement campus-wide mosquito and tick treatments.
• Meet with students to discuss and support student projects involving environmental sustainability.

Community Engagement

• Foster relationships with local community organizations and participate in community events.
• Promote the school's grounds and facilities as a resource for community activities.

Innovation & Improvement

• Continuously seek opportunities for innovation and improvement in groundskeeping practices.
• Stay updated with industry trends and incorporate new techniques and technologies.

Required Qualifications:

• High School diploma or equivalent.
• At least five years of successful experience managing outdoor work crews with diverse tasks.
• Proven experience in a supervisory or leadership role. Excellent communication, organizational, and problem-solving skills. Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Computer literacy and strong verbal and written communication skills required.
• Knowledge of landscaping, irrigation, floriculture, and turf management.
• Knowledge of state and federal regulations for pesticides, fertilizers, and herbicides.
• Ability to operate and maintain commercial landscaping equipment.
• Budget management, inventory control, and equipment management skills.
• Ability to work effectively with diverse cultures and backgrounds.
• Valid CT Driver’s license.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to lift and carry up to 60 pounds.
• Ability to operate push and riding power mowers, chainsaws, commercial tactors, etc.
• Ability to climb ladders up to 15 feet.
• Exposure to hazardous materials, chemical fertilizers, pesticides, and noxious fumes.

Work Environment:

• Conditions will vary from indoor, outdoor, and field environments in all weather conditions.
• Moderate noise levels.
• Requires readiness for emergencies and scheduled off work.

Professional Development:

• Maintain competency through professional reading, attending workshops, and training.
• Engage with colleagues to enhance knowledge of skill sets.

Additional Responsibilities:

• Perform other duties as assigned to ensure the effective operation of the Grounds Department and the needs of the school.

This position offers a comprehensive and competitive benefit package including but not limited to:

• Medical, Dental, Vision, Life insurance, Long-term/short-term disability, retirement plan with match up to 10%. Candidates will receive generous time off.

The Loomis Chaffee School does not discriminate against employees on the basis of race, color, religious creed, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, ancestry, age, marital status or disability. This policy applies to, but is not limited to, admission, financial aid, employment, use of school facilities and participation in school activities.