Grounds Supervisor

DORIS DUKE MANAGEMENT FOUNDATION • Honolulu, HI

3d • $56,800 - $71,000 • Onsite

About The Position

The Grounds Supervisor plays a central role in stewarding Shangri La’s vibrant 5-acre oceanfront site by overseeing the care and cultivation of its gardens, landscapes and hardscapes. Collaborating with the Operations team, the Grounds Supervisor ensures that outdoor areas are maintained to the highest standards of preservation, beauty and safety.

This position provides hands-on leadership to the Grounds staff, coordinating daily work schedules and seasonal priorities, while supporting long-term landscape restoration and enhancement goals. Through this work, the Grounds team helps advance the foundation’s mission by nurturing a dynamic cultural landscape that welcomes and inspires visitors, supports programmatic activities and reflects the natural and cultural significance of the site.

Requirements

• Landscape Industry Certified Technician (formerly known as CLT) preferred.
• High school graduate or equivalent work experience preferred.
• Proficient in plant identification, irrigation systems, soil management, pest/disease control and hardscape maintenance.
• Experience supervising or mentoring team members and promoting safe work practices.
• Skilled in using landscaping tools, equipment and vehicles.
• Strong organizational and communication skills; ability to give and follow instructions.
• Computer literacy, including comfort with Microsoft Suite, with a willingness to adopt new technology, including AI, to drive efficiency and communicate effectively.
• Commitment to inclusive, team-oriented work and a collegial attitude.
• Demonstrated hands-on leadership experience in: landscaping, horticulture, tree and shrub care, fertilizer and chemical application, pesticides, plant identification, pool and pond care, irrigation, and sprinkler and/or drainage systems.
• Sound judgment to complete assigned tasks safely and report concerns or issues to the Operations Manager.
• Possession of or willingness to obtain specialized training and certifications as required.
• Flexible and positive approach to collaboration, with a willingness to jump in and support across departments.
• Ability to work in varied outdoor conditions, including heat, sun exposure and wet weather.
• Physically capable of performing demanding tasks that include lifting and carrying up to 50 pounds, bending, climbing, navigating uneven terrain, working at heights over 10 feet, and operating power tools.
• Willingness to work flexible hours for special events, including weekends, evenings and holidays.
• Valid Hawai‘i driver’s license and clean driving record.

Nice To Haves

• Ability to communicate in multiple languages is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Elevate and preserve the beauty, safety and functionality of Shangri La’s grounds.
• Ensure the health, beauty and integrity of gardens, plantings and hardscapes across the 5-acre oceanfront site.
• Diagnose and address plant health, irrigation and environmental conditions to sustain a thriving landscape.
• Lead and develop a high-performing grounds team.
• Supervise daily operations, set clear priorities and ensure consistently high-quality work.
• Coach, train and support staff growth while fostering accountability and strong team culture.
• Champion operational excellence in grounds management.
• Plan and execute daily, seasonal and long-term maintenance and restoration efforts, identifying risks and opportunities for improvement across the site.
• Oversee equipment, materials and work practices to ensure efficiency, safety and compliance.
• Ensure seamless cross-functional collaboration.
• Collaborate across teams to prepare for events, special projects and visitor engagement.
• Contribute to restoration and capital improvement initiatives that enhance the center’s impact.
• Perform other work, including special projects, as assigned.

Benefits

• Industry-leading benefits, including a 15% employer contribution to your 401(k), comprehensive health insurance, four weeks of paid vacation with additional paid time off, and matching gift benefits of up to $20,000 per year—all designed to support employees’ well-being, productivity and engagement.
• A values-driven culture rooted in integrity, excellence, collaboration, openness and imagination, and a deep commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Manager
• Education Level: High school or GED