Grounds Working Foreman

University of Massachusetts Dartmouth•Dartmouth, MA

57d•$49,233 - $68,629•Onsite

About The Position

The Grounds Working Foreman is responsible for planning, overseeing, and participating in the maintenance, upkeep, and improvement of the University's grounds, roads, walkways, parking areas, and outdoor athletic facilities. This position provides daily supervision of grounds personnel, coordinates work schedules, ensures the proper operation and maintenance of equipment, and oversees campus-wide services such as waste removal, seasonal maintenance, and event preparation. The incumbent performs hands-on work alongside staff while maintaining records, requisitioning supplies, and upholding safety and performance standards in accordance with University policies and state regulations. Follows the University's best practices to build and/or support student academic success and retention and assist in meeting strategic objectives for persistence and timely graduation of all the student population.

Requirements

Knowledge of the types and uses of materials, tools and equipment used in maintenance and groundskeeping
Knowledge of the proper care and maintenance of equipment used in groundskeeping
Knowledge of the terminology and standard abbreviations used in connection with groundskeeping
Knowledge of techniques used in weed control
Knowledge of the safety practices and procedures followed in building maintenance, grounds, and repair work (i.e. fire safety, ladder safety, etc.)
Knowledge of the standard preventive maintenance procedures followed in connection with building structures
Knowledge of the types and uses of small hand tools such as pliers, chisels, hammers, etc.
Knowledge of the types and uses of hand-held power tools such as drills, chain saws, hedge trimmers, etc.
Skill in the use of motorized equipment such as snow blowers, lawn mowers, forklifts, dollies, rototillers etc.
Skill in using small hand tools such as pliers, hammers, screwdrivers, wrenches, etc.
Skill in using hand-held power tools such as drills
Ability to supervise, including planning and assigning work according to the nature of the job to be accomplished, the capabilities of subordinates and available resources; controlling work through periodic reviews and/or evaluations; determining subordinates' training needs and providing or arranging for such training; motivating subordinates to work effectively; determining the need for disciplinary action and either recommending or initiating disciplinary action
Ability to follow oral and written instructions
Ability to give oral instructions in a precise, understandable manner
Ability to read and interpret documents such as plans, blueprints, specifications, drawings, job layouts and schematics
Ability to adhere to university procedures involving the handling of cleaning agents, pesticides or other potentially hazardous materials
Ability to adhere to plans and specifications
Ability and willingness to represent the Facilities Department to vendors and respond to vendor concerns in a timely and supportive manner
Ability to establish and maintain harmonious working relationships with others
Ability to exercise sound judgment
Ability to maintain accurate records
Ability to stand for prolonged periods of time
Ability to lift and carry heavy objects
Ability to climb trees, ladders, and scaffolds
Physical stamina and endurance
Mechanical aptitude
Manual dexterity
Applicants must have at least two years of full-time, or equivalent part-time experience in grounds maintenance, landscaping, horticulture, or turf management.
Possession of a valid Pesticide Applicators License or ability to obtain within 12 months of hire
Possession of a valid Massachusetts Hoisting License appropriate for the equipment operated (e.g., 1C, 2A), or ability to obtain within 12 months of hire
Possession of a valid Driver's license and eligibility to drive in Massachusetts

Nice To Haves

Knowledge of the policies, procedures, specifications, standards and guidelines governing assigned unit activities
Knowledge of the types and uses of agency forms
Knowledge of the principles, practices and techniques of supervision
Ability to operate tree trimming equipment
Knowledge of the types and uses of pesticides
Knowledge of the procedures followed in pruning and cutting trees

Responsibilities

Plans and lays out daily and seasonal work schedules for grounds staff to ensure efficient coverage of all maintenance tasks across campus grounds and facilities
Supervises and actively participates in mowing and trimming turf areas, including the operation of commercial-grade mowing equipment
Supervises and actively participates in the application of fertilizers, soil amendments, and turf care treatments in accordance with best practices and safety guidelines
Supervises and actively participates in snow and ice removal operations, including salting, sanding, and plowing of walkways, stairs, and parking areas to ensure campus safety and accessibility
Supervises and actively participates in the collection and disposal of trash and organic debris from campus grounds
Supervises and actively participates in preparation and maintenance of Athletic fields, including striping, leveling, and conditioning surfaces for scheduled practices and games, ensuring compliance with Athletic safety standards
Supervises and actively participates in the assembly, inspection, and repair of outdoor athletic equipment
Secures athletic facilities by locking and unlocking gates and structures according to facility schedules
Requisitions and tracks inventory of grounds and field maintenance supplies, tools, and materials
Inspects and performs general maintenance and minor repairs on equipment used in the maintenance and upkeep of University grounds (i.e. lawn mowers, snow blowers, and trimmers) and makes recommendations for new equipment
Trains and mentors Grounds staff in proper procedures, equipment use, and safety protocols
Develops and manages overtime schedules to address operational needs, seasonal demands, or emergency responses
Supervises, trains, hires, evaluates and monitors the performance of assigned staff
Actively participates in department meetings and may serve on committees, as assigned