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- Tasks: Maintain campus grounds, including walkways, patios, and plant life.
- Company: Join Scripps College, a top-ranked liberal arts college with a beautiful campus.
- Benefits: Enjoy a full-time role with competitive pay and benefits, including weekends off.
- Why this job: Be part of a vibrant community while working outdoors and making a difference.
- Qualifications: High school diploma or equivalent; previous groundskeeping experience preferred.
- Other info: Must be prepared to work in various weather conditions and on weekends.
Reporting to the Landscape Operations Manager and the Lead Groundskeeper, the Groundskeeper performs a variety of duties related to the maintenance of campus grounds, including outdoor walkways, patios, signs, irrigation systems, and athletic facilities in a college setting. Establish and maintain a variety of plant life. Use and maintain all related grounds-keeping equipment. Maintain grounds in a clean, orderly, and safe condition.
DESCRIPTION OF DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: This information is intended to be descriptive of the key responsibilities of the position. The list of essential functions below does not identify all duties performed by any single incumbent in this position. Perform other duties as assigned.
- Rake leaves, sweep walkways; plant, fertilize, prune, and trim plant material; weed, and maintain outdoor water feature, flowers, ground covers, shrubs and trees.
- Utilize powered blowers, lawn mowers, edgers, hedge trimmers and other powered equipment.
- Assist in removal and disposal of carcasses in accordance with safety procedures.
- Report graffiti and theft of campus property such as banners and signs.
- Maintain equipment. Clean and maintain all non-powered and powered equipment.
- Utilizes power and hand equipment for maintenance and repair of grounds.
- Remove and dispose of trash and other debris daily.
- Maintain inventory of all assigned tools, supplies and equipment.
- Participate in composting and mulching activities, as needed.
- Report plant and tree care needs which are beyond regular job scope in timely manner.
- Basic irrigation repairs and timely reporting (within 24 hours) of irrigation concerns and problems to Lead Groundskeeper and Irrigation Specialist.
- Performs other grounds-related duties, as assigned.
- Participate in working four mandatory weekends which include, Orientation (Late August), Family Weekend (Mid-February), Reunion Weekend (End of April), and Commencement (Mid May).
- Be prepared to work in inclement weather.
- Be prepared to work evening shift when necessary and/or during emergency situations for protection of the campus and/or community.
- Active support for the College's Principles of Community and Principles of Diversity in the performance of job duties.
REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, ABILITIES: Individual must possess knowledge, skills and ability to successfully perform the essential functions of the position or be able to explain or demonstrate how the essential functions will be performed, with or without reasonable accommodation, using some other combination of skills and abilities.
- Requires ability to learn proper use of fire extinguishers.
- Must be able to effectively and efficiently clean and maintain an assigned area within a predetermined time schedule.
- Must be able to understand and carry out oral and written directions in the English language.
- Must be able to establish and maintain cooperative working relationships.
- Must have ability to work well without continuous supervision.
- Experience with basic groundskeeping.
- Knowledge of small tools and basic equipment functionality.
- Basic irrigation repair.
- Basic understanding of integrated pest management and willingness to learn.
- Must wear uniforms and safety equipment as required.
- Must know safe working methods and procedures.
QUALIFICATION STANDARDS:
EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE: Any combination of education and experience equivalent to graduation from high school or any combination of education, training or experience that provides the required knowledge, skills, and ability. At least three years of previous groundskeeping experience is preferred.
LICENSES / CERTIFICATES: Requires a valid California Driver's License and maintain a driving record acceptable to the Colleges' insurance carrier.
OTHER:
HOURS & CLASSIFICATION AND STATUS: This is a regular status, full-time, 12-month, benefits-eligible, non-exempt level position. The regular hours for this position are Monday-Friday from 6:00 am-2:30 pm. Hours will vary due to the needs of the College including evenings and weekends. Hourly rate range: $19.00-$20.50. The hourly rate of the finalist(s) selected for this role will be set based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to, internal equity, experience, education, specialty, and training.
SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY: None.
The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of the job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. The noise level in the work environment is quiet to high levels of noise. Able to work in inclement weather conditions.
Physical and Mental Requirements: Ability to maintain good concentration level while dealing with interruptions; attention to details with emphasis on accuracy; capable of giving, receiving, and analyzing information, formulating work plans, and articulating goals and action plans. Sitting in a normal seated position and/or walking for extended periods of time. Standing for extended periods of time. Reaching and extending hand(s) or arm(s) in any direction. Finger dexterity required to manipulate objects with fingers rather than the whole hand(s), or arm(s), for example, using gardening equipment. Communication skills using the spoken word. Ability to see within normal parameters. Ability to hear within normal parameters. Ability to bend and stoop, for example, to fix irrigation components. Ability to move about. Ability to lift and carry short distances up to 50 lbs., for example, to lift or move supplies, such as, fertilizer bags.
At-Will Employment: Regular employment at the College is for no specified period of time; conditions and status of employment (hours, pay, title, duties, etc.) are subject to change at any time. Scripps College is an At-Will employer. Employees, and likewise the College, are free to end the employment relationship at any time, for any reason, with or without notice or cause, unless otherwise prohibited by law.
About Us: Scripps College is a top-ranked liberal arts college and the women's college of The Claremont Colleges. Founded in 1926 by Ellen Browning Scripps, the College has provided exceptional education to equip talented students intellectually and morally with the skills, experience, and discernment to lead satisfying and productive professional and personal lives. In the founder's words, "The paramount obligation of a college is to develop in its students the ability to think clearly and independently and the ability to live confidently, courageously and hopefully." These fundamental principles remain central and relevant to the mission of the College today.
Groundskeeper I employer: The Claremont Colleges Services
Contact Detail:
The Claremont Colleges Services Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Groundskeeper I
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific groundskeeping equipment mentioned in the job description, such as powered blowers and lawn mowers. Having hands-on experience or knowledge about these tools can give you an edge during the interview.
✨Tip Number 2
Demonstrate your understanding of plant care and maintenance by discussing any relevant experiences you have had with gardening or landscaping. This will show that you are not only qualified but also passionate about the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Be prepared to discuss how you handle working in various weather conditions and your ability to work flexible hours, including weekends. This shows your commitment and readiness for the demands of the job.
✨Tip Number 4
Research Scripps College's values and principles, especially regarding community and diversity. Being able to articulate how you align with these values can set you apart as a candidate who fits well within their culture.
We think you need these skills to ace Groundskeeper I
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure to thoroughly read the job description for the Groundskeeper I position. Understand the key responsibilities and required skills, so you can tailor your application to highlight relevant experiences.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV and cover letter, emphasise any previous groundskeeping experience or related skills. Mention specific tasks you've performed that align with the duties listed in the job description, such as using powered equipment or maintaining plant life.
Showcase Your Skills: Include any certifications or training related to groundskeeping, such as knowledge of irrigation systems or pest management. If you have a valid driver's license, be sure to mention it, as it's a requirement for the role.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: Write a compelling cover letter that not only outlines your qualifications but also expresses your enthusiasm for working at Scripps College. Mention how your values align with the college's principles of community and diversity.
How to prepare for a job interview at The Claremont Colleges Services
✨Know Your Groundskeeping Basics
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of basic groundskeeping techniques. Be prepared to discuss your experience with tools and equipment, as well as any specific plant care methods you’ve used in the past.
✨Demonstrate Safety Awareness
Since safety is crucial in this role, be ready to talk about how you ensure safe working practices. Mention any relevant training or experiences that highlight your commitment to safety, especially when using powered equipment.
✨Show Your Team Spirit
This position requires collaboration with others, so be prepared to share examples of how you've worked effectively in a team. Highlight your ability to establish cooperative relationships and communicate well with colleagues.
✨Be Ready for Physical Challenges
The job involves physical tasks, so it’s important to convey your readiness for such challenges. Discuss your physical capabilities and any previous experiences that demonstrate your ability to handle the demands of the role.
