Groundskeeper I
Job Summary
The Groundskeeper I position maintains and enhances the aesthetic beauty of the RIT campus landscape and hardscape under the direction of the Grounds Supervisor. The Groundskeeper I performs a variety of annual and seasonal tasks which may include any combination of the following: maintenance and repair of exterior ground features, daily pickup of trash, sod laying, mowing, trimming, pruning, planting, watering, fertilizing, digging, raking, sprinkler installation, leaf removal, snowplowing, and snow removal.
The position is part of the FMS Grounds Department, and is considered essential personnel. This means that this person must be willing to work a flexible schedule including call-in work that could encompass various shifts, weekends, holidays, Institute emergencies, and times other than normal work schedules.
Work is performed under close supervision by more experienced staff on all work processes in which the position has not demonstrated proficiency and competence. Positions receive detailed instruction on all work and duties are typically routine and structured; follows protocols with little to no deviation. Decision making relies heavily on consultation with more experienced staff members. Receives training and experience which allows them to learn and progress through successive levels of knowledge and skills during the course of their training. Demonstrates independence as duties are learned. Performs on-the-job duties and is able to able to resolve novice to intermediate issues.
- Schedule: Monday through Friday, 7:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. The position requires flexibility to work nights, weekends, and extended hours outside of the regular schedule as needed during the winter months (November through April) to support snow and ice removal operations.
- Starting Salary: $19.50/hour
Essential Job Duties
- Lawn and Athletic Field Care
- Under direction, assists other grounds staff in activities such as cultivating, planting, watering, aerating, weeding, mulching, trimming, grubbing, removing thatch, trimming/edging, mowing and/or pruning. Cares for lawn, gardens, shrubs, flowers, flower beds, trees and walkways.
- Winter Snow Removal
- Under direction, assisting in basic removal of snow and ice from assigned areas using hand and power snow removal equipment.
- Spreads salt, sand, and deicers to prevent slipping.
- General Grounds Upkeep and Support
- Under direction, assists in removing litters from grounds by emptying trash containers; sweeping doorways, steps, and fire exits; removing signage, posters, and graffiti, removing and properly disposing of dead animals, bodily fluids, etc.
- Under direction, assists in providing proper upkeep of hard surface areas including, sidewalks, concrete pavers, driveways, parking lots, fountains, planters, or other outdoor structures and amenities.
- Equipment
- Under direction, operates hand and power equipment such as mowers, tillers, sweepers, snow blowers, edgers, and shovels.
- Performs other duties as assigned.
Minimum Qualifications
- High School Diploma or General Education Degree (GED)
- Class D driver's license
- Experience in commercial or university campus setting is preferred.
Skills, Abilities, Knowledge
- Ability to safety and efficiently operate vehicles and powered equipment necessary for grounds activities.
- Ability to select and use appropriate PPE equipment for tasks performed and conditions encountered.
- Ability to and willingness to be self-motivating and willing to perform manual labor
- Ability to withstand irregular and long hours during winter weather conditions
- Ability to tolerate prolonged exposure to unusual elements such as extreme temperatures, dirt, dust, unpleasant odors and loud noises.
- Ability to perform physical activities such as standing or walking for long periods, repeated bending, crouching, stooping, stretching, crawling, and climbing ladders or scaffolding.
- Ability to effectively communicate.
- Ability to serve as a steward for all university property, equipment, and tools.