Custodian - Grounds Keeper

Polkschoolsfl; Bartow (FL); On-site; USD 26,000 - 38,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Full benefits package: medical, dental

No-cost employee health clinics

Paid holidays and leave time

Flexible work options for some roles

Professional growth and development

Mentoring and support networks

Job summary

Polk County Schools in Bartow, FL is seeking a reliable Groundskeeper to perform heavy manual cleaning and landscape maintenance across multiple district sites. You’ll operate cleaning equipment, handle floors and surfaces, and assist with facilities setups for events.

This role requires basic education, a Florida driver’s license, and the ability to work outdoors in varying conditions. The district offers a full benefits package and opportunities for growth.

Qualifications

• Requires eighth grade completion or equivalent training/experience; valid FL driver's license for mowing teams; DOT requirements.
• Knowledge of custodial methods and equipment, with ability to follow instructions.
• Ability to stand for long periods and work in various weather conditions.
• Willingness to learn routine custodial and grounds duties; bilingual/biliterate preferred.
• Work involves standing, walking and coordinating tasks to meet deadlines.

Responsibilities

• Empty trash containers and dust surfaces.
• Clean floors, wash walls and windows; vacuum and shampoo carpets.
• Assist with restroom maintenance and refilling dispensers.
• Mow, edge, trim lawns and maintain grounds at multiple sites.

Skills

Custodial knowledge

Grounds maintenance

Follow instructions

Bilingual preferred

Education

Completion of eighth grade or equivalent

Tools

Grounds equipment knowledge

Job description

Job Location (Short): Bartow, FL, USA, 33830

Status: Open

Posting End Date: 11/13/26

Salary Grade: Groundskeeper

Position Title

Custom Job Purpose

This position exists to perform heavy manual work in cleaning in and around buildings and grounds. Maintains landscape at multiple sites throughout the School District.

Essential Functions of this Job

Empties trash containers and other receptacles. Dusts ledges, furniture, lights, etc. Replaces spent light bulbs, strips, cleans, burnishes, and applies finish to hard surface floors. Vacuums and shampoos carpets. Cleans and disinfects drinking fountains. Assist in the maintenance of clean, safe and sanitary toilets, shower and dining room facilities. Refills restroom dispensers. Washes walls, windows, and glass surfaces.Performs duties related to maintenance of school grounds such as grass mowing, edging, weed and tree trimming. Performs the duties within the scope of capabilities as assigned by the supervisor. Uses tools, equipment and materials such as mops, power floor scrubber and buffer, vacuums, mop bucket and wringer, push and corn broom, floor and window squeegee, dust cloths, dustpans, finishes, toilet bowl mops and brushes, ladders, dollies, insecticides, germicides, bowl acid, cleaning agents, seals, lawn care tools such as lawnmowers, edgers, weed trimmers, garden tools, and two-sysle equipment, and other tools related to lawn and shrub maintenance, and maintenance hand tools. Follows instructions for proper use and mixture of chemicals and supplies. Assists parts room personnel in stacking of crates, boxes, etc. Assists with the setups of facilities for meetings, classrooms, and events. Accurately completes all DOT and District required paperwork.

Essential Functions of this Job (cont.)

Non-Essential Functions of this Job

Performs other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Completion of eighth grade, providing proof, if attainable, or an equivalent combination of training and experience. Must have a valid Florida Driver's License to work on the County wide mowing teams, and pass all required Department of Transportation requirements.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

Some knowledge of the methods and equipment used in custodial tasks. Knowledge of grounds equipment and proper landscape processes. Ability to understand and follow instructions. Ability to work continuous hours while standing. Ability to learn routine custodial and grounds duties. Bilingual/biliterate preferred.

Work Context

Requires standing, walking and moving about to coordinate work. Requires face-to-face discussions and contact with individuals and/or teams. Requires coordination of work tasks to establish priorities, set goals and meet deadlines.

Physical Environment

Requires standing for the majority of the day, and the ability to frequently lift, carry, move and/or position objects weighing between 20 and 50 pounds, and occasionally up to 100 pounds. Requires working both indoors and outdoors. Requires exposure to outdoor elements, including weather changes, foliage, insects. Requires the handling and use of cleaning solvents and solutions. Requires the proper use of personal protective devices and equipment as assigned.

Collective Bargaining Agreement

No matter your role, you’ll be part of a supportive team dedicated to student success and employee well-being.

Looking for perks? We've got you covered.

• Full benefits package: medical, dental, vision, and life insurance
• No-cost employee health clinics
• Paid holidays and leave time
• Flexible work options for some roles
• Professional growth and development
• Access to mentoring and support networks

Why work with Polk County Schools?

From IT to operations, everyone plays a role in student success.

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