Grounds Maintenance Manager

FirstService • Ashburn, VA

75d • $76,000 - $81,000

About The Position

The Grounds Manager is responsible for the overall care, maintenance, and aesthetic presentation of the outdoor areas within a residential community, including landscaping, hardscaping, irrigation, recreational areas, and common grounds. This position ensures that the community's exterior spaces are safe, clean, attractive, and well-maintained in accordance with property management standards, resident expectations, and applicable regulations. The Grounds Manager will work with vendors and contractors, and will coordinate closely with the Property Manager to plan seasonal work, address resident concerns, and ensure high-quality service delivery.

Requirements

• High school diploma or GED required; associate's degree or certifications in landscaping, horticulture, or turf management preferred.
• Minimum of 3-5 years of experience in grounds maintenance, landscaping, or facilities operations; supervisory experience required.
• Strong knowledge of horticultural practices, irrigation systems, lawn care, and seasonal plantings.
• Experience working with landscaping equipment and small machinery.
• Ability to read landscape plans and understand maintenance specifications and schedules.
• Proficient in using maintenance tracking systems or work order software (preferred).
• Excellent organizational, leadership, and communication skills.
• Ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions and lift up to 50 lbs.
• Valid driver's license and clean driving record required.

Responsibilities

• Supervise daily operations and maintenance of all landscaped areas, lawns, gardens, walking paths, water features, and recreational outdoor spaces.
• Ensure proper upkeep of irrigation systems, including inspections, repairs, and seasonal adjustments.
• Conduct routine inspections of the grounds and address hazards, damages, or deficiencies promptly.
• Oversee seasonal work such as mulching, pruning, leaf removal, snow/ice management, and storm debris cleanup.
• Manage, train, and schedule in-house groundskeeping staff (if applicable), ensuring safe and efficient work practices.
• Assign daily work tasks, provide guidance, and monitor performance to maintain high standards of workmanship and safety.
• Provide input on hiring, training, performance evaluations, and discipline when necessary.
• Coordinate and supervise landscaping vendors and contractors to ensure timely and satisfactory completion of contracted work.
• Review vendor performance and report issues or service concerns to the Property Manager.
• Assist in soliciting bids and reviewing contracts for landscaping and grounds-related services.
• Maintain an inventory of landscaping tools, equipment, and supplies; ensure proper usage and maintenance.
• Schedule and perform minor repairs or coordinate service for landscaping machinery and irrigation systems.
• Respond to grounds-related resident concerns or work orders in a timely and professional manner.
• Support community curb appeal and special event setups as needed.
• Participate in planning long-term landscaping improvements and sustainability initiatives.
• Assist with the development of the annual landscaping/grounds maintenance budget.
• Monitor expenses and identify cost-saving opportunities without compromising quality.

Benefits

• Comprehensive medical plans
• Dental insurance
• Vision insurance
• Time off benefits
• Paid holidays
• 401k with company match

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Industry: Real Estate
• Education Level: High school or GED
• Number of Employees: 5,001-10,000 employees