Lead Groundskeeper and Landscaper

Wartburg College • Waverly, IA

77d

About The Position

Responsible to the Director of Maintenance and Cleaning. The Lead Landscaper and Groundskeeper is responsible for maintaining and enhancing the beauty, safety, and sustainability of the college's campus grounds. This position combines hands-on landscaping and groundskeeping work with leadership responsibilities, ensuring that outdoor spaces are well-kept and welcoming. The Lead Landscaper and Groundskeeper leads team members, coordinates daily operations, and collaborates with Facilities, Maintenance, and cleaning staff to support campus events, seasonal transitions, and special projects.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Minimum technical training or certification in horticulture, landscaping, turf management, or related field with associate degree preferred.
• 3-5 years of professional experience in landscaping, groundskeeping, or facilities support, with at least 1-2 years in a leadership or supervisory role preferred.
• Strong knowledge of plant care, turf management, irrigation systems, and groundskeeping practices.
• Proficiency in operating and maintaining landscaping/grounds equipment (mowers, tractors, trimmers, blowers, etc.).
• Strong organizational, communication, and leadership skills, with the ability to direct and motivate a team.
• Physical ability to perform outdoor labor in all weather conditions, including lifting over 50 pounds.
• Valid driver's license required.

Nice To Haves

• Commitment to sustainability and environmentally responsible landscaping/groundskeeping.
• Experience with athletic field care and snow removal operations.
• Problem-solving skills, adaptability, and attention to detail.
• Positive, team-oriented approach with a focus on providing excellent service to the campus community.

Responsibilities

• Lead and coordinate the daily work of landscaping and grounds staff, including assignments, training, and performance guidance.
• Perform and oversee grounds maintenance: mowing, trimming, edging, mulching, fertilizing, irrigation, planting, pruning, weeding, tree/shrub care, etc.
• Lead seasonal work such as leaf removal, snow and ice management, athletic field preparation, and campus-wide event setup/teardown.
• Develop and execute seasonal landscaping plans that enhance campus aesthetics, sustainability, and overall student/visitor experience.
• Create landscapes that minimize water consumption such as by incorporating drought-resistant grasses or indigenous plants.
• Operate vehicles or powered equipment, such as mowers, tractors, twin-axle vehicles, snow blowers, chainsaws, electric clippers, sod cutters, or pruning saws.
• Provide input on long-term campus beautification projects and grounds improvements.
• Care for established lawns by mulching, aerating, weeding, grubbing, removing thatch, or trimming or edging around flower beds, walks, or walls.
• Plant seeds, bulbs, foliage, flowering plants, grass, ground covers, trees, or shrubs, and apply mulch for protection, using gardening tools.
• Provide proper upkeep of sidewalks, driveways, parking lots, fountains, planters, gardens, or other grounds features.
• Remove snow from walks, driveways, parking lots, and spread ice melt in those areas.
• Maintain irrigation systems, including winterizing and startup.
• Monitor campus grounds for safety hazards, damage, or repair needs, ensuring prompt resolution.
• Contribute to sustainability initiatives such as pollinator-friendly landscaping, water conservation, and eco-conscious grounds management.
• Other duties as assigned

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Industry: Educational Services
• Education Level: High school or GED