The University Grounds Lead Technician oversees and participates in the maintenance, landscaping, and overall appearance of the university’s outdoor spaces. This position provides hands-on leadership to the grounds staff, ensures compliance with safety and environmental standards, and works to create a welcoming, aesthetically pleasing, and sustainable campus environment. The University Grounds Lead Technician is a full-time, year-round opportunity on Post's main campus in Waterbury, CT.
Key Responsibilities
Leadership & Supervision
- Leads the team of groundskeepers and technicians, providing training, guidance, and daily task assignments.
- Monitor work quality and efficiency, ensuring tasks are completed to university standards.
- Assist in scheduling and coordinating grounds maintenance projects, seasonal work, and special event preparations.
- Reports directly to the Facilities Supervisor and Manager of the Facilities Department, ensuring effective communication and collaboration across both roles.
Grounds Maintenance & Landscaping
- Perform and oversee tasks such as mowing, edging, trimming, pruning, planting, and mulching.
- Maintain irrigation systems, ensuring proper watering schedules and troubleshooting issues.
- Assist with turf management, including aeration, fertilization, and pest control.
- Ensure walkways, roads, and outdoor spaces are clear of debris, leaves, and other hazards.
Equipment & Safety Management
- Operate and maintain landscaping equipment such as mowers, trimmers, tractors, and utility vehicles.
- Conducts routine inspections and maintenance of ground tools and machinery.
- Enforce safety procedures and guidelines for the team, ensuring compliance with OSHA and university policies.
Seasonal & Special Event Support
- Manage snow and ice removal operations during winter months.
- Support event setup and breakdown, including temporary structures, barriers, and outdoor furniture placement.
- Collaborate with campus departments for special landscaping projects and sustainability initiatives.
- Perform minor maintenance tasks as needed, including but not limited to small painting projects, completing work orders, and making dormitory repairs.
Administrative Duties
- Maintain records of maintenance schedules, supply inventories, and work orders.
- Assist in budget planning and procurement of supplies, tools, and equipment.
- Communicate with vendors and contractors for specialized grounds services when needed.
Qualifications & Requirements
Education & Experience
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Minimum 3-5 years of experience in grounds maintenance, landscaping, or a related field.
- Previous leadership or supervisory experience preferred.
Skills & Abilities
- Strong knowledge of landscaping techniques, plant care, and turf management.
- Ability to operate and maintain a variety of groundskeeping equipment safely.
- Knowledge of irrigation systems, pest control, and basic horticultural practices.
- Excellent problem-solving and organizational skills.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team in various weather conditions.
Physical & Work Environment Requirements
- Ability to lift 50+ lbs, stand, walk, and perform manual labor for extended periods.
- Work is performed outdoors in varying weather conditions, including heat, cold, and precipitation.
- Must have a valid driver’s license and an acceptable driving record.
- Willingness to participate in an on-call rotation, providing timely support as needed outside of regular business hours.
Preferred Qualifications
- Certifications in pesticide application, landscaping, or turf management.
- Experience with sustainable landscaping practices and environmental conservation.
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