Groundskeeper

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Summary

VCU’s Facilities Management Department is seeking to hire a Groundskeeper within the Facilities Operations unit to maintain a healthy, safe, attractive landscape on the Academic and Medical Campuses.

Groundskeepers are tasked with completing assignments in a timely manner in accordance with department standards; maintain landscapes while working under the direction of a lead worker and supervisor; observe and report waste/landscape maintenance needs; inform supervisors of problems with particular tasks and seek direction; and may work weekends (Saturday and Sunday), holidays, and special events (after hours) as needed.

Responsibilities include (but are not limited to):

Litter Control

• Sweeps and collects litter and debris from turf and landscaped areas, sidewalks, streets, and alleys with various hand tools and power equipment including litter vacuum machine
  
• Empties trash cans and replaces trash can liners for assigned exterior trash and recycling containers
  
• Keeps recycling waste stream separate from trash destined for landfill
  
• Reports and corrects trash and recycling container maintenance issues including stickers, graffiti, wear, or other damage in accordance with University policy
  
• Supports litter collection during special events

Equipment Operation and Maintenance

• Understands and demonstrates safe operation of vehicles, tools, and equipment
  
• Performs visual and fluid checks on power equipment and vehicles
  
• Recognizes and corrects unsafe conditions or practices
  
• Identifies maintenance needs, performs basic maintenance such as adding fluids, inflating tires, or adjusting tools as needed
  
• Reports any damage and/or needed repairs to supervisor
  
• Work areas, tools, and equipment are organized, secure, and maintained in good condition

Timekeeping

• Independently enters accurate timecards in computer on a daily basis using correct work orders in accordance with AiM SOPs

Other Duties

• This position is designated to work at VCU during emergencies or when the University closes during uncertain weather conditions. This position is also subject to being designated as "on-call."
  
• Safely operates vehicles, tools, and equipment including snow removal tools and equipment (plows, spreaders, 4x4 vehicles, and off-road vehicles), chainsaws, pruning tools, blowers, mowers, etc. in normal and in adverse conditions
  
• Wears appropriate PPE as required by task or department policy
  
• Identifies, corrects, or reports potential hazards to safe work, customers, and the public
  
• Follows instructions of lead workers or other supervisors; may be responsible for team during supervisor or lead worker absence
  
• Performs assigned tasks in accordance with department standards
  
• Other duties as assigned including but not limited to mowing, mulching, weed control, leaf collection, and snow removal

Minimum Hiring Standards

• High school diploma, GED, or equivalent
  
• Able to perform a repetitive, physically demanding tasks daily
  
• Able to safely operate vehicles in a congested environment
  
• Able to work and communicate effectively with others
  
• Able to read, write, and speak English
  
• Able to use a personal computer to enter accurate time cards and charge time against multiple work requests
  
• General knowledge of professional landscape maintenance practices and grounds equipment and the safe operation of same
  
• Nights weekends and holidays may be required during special events, emergencies and inclement weather
  
• Valid Driver License is required
  
• Demonstrated experience working in and fostering a diverse faculty, staff and student environment or commitment to do so as a staff member at VCU

Preferred Hiring Standards

• At least one year of residential, commercial, municipal, park, or similar turf, horticulture or arboriculture experience is preferred
  
• VDACS Pesticide Registered Technician or Commercial Applicator certification in category 3A or 3B is preferred

Required Licensure/Certifications

• Valid Driver's License

Physical and Cognitive Requirements

Physical Demands & Activities

Light Lifting (<20 lbs): Essential
Moderate Lifting (20-50 lbs): Essential
Heavy Lifting (>50 lbs): Essential
Pushing/Pulling: Essential
Standing: Essential
Sitting: Marginal
Repetitive Motion: Essential
Walking: Essential
Climbing: Essential
Reaching: Essential
Bending: Essential

Environmental Conditions

Extreme heat/cold: Essential
Extreme Noise: Essential
Vibrations: Essential
Fumes: Essential
Mists/gases: Essential

Emotional Demands

Fast pace: Essential
Average Pace: Essential
Multiple Stimuli: Essential
Intense Customer Interaction: Essential
Frequent Change: Essential

Mental/Sensory Demands

Memory: Essential
Reasoning: Essential
Hearing: Essential
Reading: Essential
Analyzing: Essential
Logic: Essential
Verbal Communication: Essential
Written Communication: Essential

Work Days/Hours: Monday-Friday, 6:30 am-3:00pm; Overtime, nights, weekends, and holidays may be required for special events, emergencies, and inclement weather; subject to being on-call.

ORP Eligible: No

VCU Slotting: Groundskeeper FM 1-3 (17031-17033)

Close Date: January 1, 2025