Groundskeeper I

University of Florida•Gainesville, FL

19d•Onsite

About The Position

This position involves comprehensive grounds maintenance and tree care. Responsibilities include pruning and removing trees, grinding stumps, and assisting with planting. The role requires operating various equipment such as bucket trucks, lifts, tractors, chippers, and chainsaws, while adhering to safety procedures and inspecting/replacing safety gear. Training lower-level staff in tree-care techniques is also part of the job. The Groundskeeper I will maintain lawns and landscaped areas using mowers, edgers, weed eaters, and blowers, monitor plant and mulch conditions, and ensure grounds are clean. Coordination with vendors for landscaping needs is also required. The role also includes inspecting building exteriors for maintenance, performing minor repairs, assisting with projects like spreading gravel and filling potholes, and completing work orders for pressure washing buildings and walkways. Additional duties involve assisting other trades with moving materials, tools, equipment, and furniture, and loading/unloading equipment.

Requirements

Completion of the ninth grade
Must have a valid Florida driver’s license.

Nice To Haves

Knowledge of groundskeeping procedures and tree care equipment.
Skill in the operation of lawn equipment.
High school diploma (or equivalent) and at least 1-2 years of experience in the field.
Self-starting work ethic
Good verbal and written communication skills
Ability to learn and use electronic work order system
Commercial Drivers License

Responsibilities

Prune and remove trees, grind stumps, and assist with planting.
Operate equipment such as bucket trucks, lifts, tractors, chippers, and chainsaws.
Complete tree‑related work orders and follow safety procedures.
Inspect and replace safety gear as needed.
Train lower‑level staff in proper tree‑care techniques.
Drive a state vehicle to various work sites, including occasional statewide travel.
Maintain lawns and landscaped areas using mowers, edgers, weed eaters, and blowers.
Monitor plant and mulch conditions and keep grounds clean and debris‑free.
Coordinate with vendors on landscaping needs and schedule.
Inspect building exteriors and surrounding grounds for maintenance needs.
Perform minor repairs or submit work orders.
Assist with projects such as spreading gravel, filling potholes, and improving access areas.
Complete work orders for pressure washing buildings, walkways, and other hard surfaces.
May assist or lead others in pressure‑washing tasks.
Assist other trades with moving materials, tools, equipment, and furniture.
Load/unload equipment and drive a state vehicle to job sites.
Perform other duties as assigned.