Grounds

Southeast Polk Community School District; Annandale (VA); On-site; USD 35,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

Southeast Polk Community School District is seeking a Grounds personnel to maintain district grounds, athletic fields, and outdoor spaces. You will operate mowers, snow plows, tractors, and related equipment while following safety protocols and district procedures.

The role requires a high school diploma and a CDL Class B with airbrake endorsement (or ability to obtain within 90 days). You will work Monday–Friday, 7:00 am–3:30 pm, with seasonal schedule adjustments.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or equivalent is required.
• Valid CDL Class B with airbrake endorsement or ability to obtain within 90 days of hire.
• Ability to safely operate and maintain grounds equipment and snow removal gear.
• Read and follow work orders and safety instructions; basic math for materials and distances.
• Strong communication skills and ability to work independently or in a team.
• Commitment to safety, reliability, and outdoor work in all weather conditions.
• Maintain licenses and keep certifications current as required.

Responsibilities

• Perform routine and seasonal grounds maintenance including mowing, edging, and weed control.
• Operate and maintain grounds equipment and snow plows as needed.
• Assist with snow and ice removal; prepare athletic fields and outdoor spaces.
• Conduct minor repairs and preventive maintenance on vehicles and equipment.
• Inspect areas for hazards; document work and materials used.
• Support events setup/takedown and after-hours maintenance requests as needed.

Skills

Grounds equipment operation

Basic preventive maintenance

Read and follow work orders

Math calculations

Effective communication

Teamwork and independence

Safety awareness

Outdoor work in varying weather

Education

High School Diploma or equivalent

CDL Class B with airbrake endorsement or ability to obtain within 90 days

Job description

• Position Type: Maintenance/Custodial/ Grounds
• Date Posted: 10/26/2026
• Location: Building and Grounds
• Date Available: As Soon As Possible

SOUTHEAST POLK COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT
Job Description

Job Title: Grounds

Hours: 7:00 am to 3:30 pm (M-F)
**Hours and schedule may vary based on seasons, outdoor activities, etc.

Required Qualifications:

• High School Diploma or equivalent.
• Valid Class B Commercial Driver License (CDL), with airbrake endorsement, or ability to obtain within 90 days of hire, including successful completion of required testing and licensing.
• Ability to safely operate, or learn to operate, and maintain grounds and snow removal equipment, including trucks, tractors, mowers, skid-steers, and attachments.
• Basic preventive maintenance skills for small engines, power equipment, and vehicles.
• Ability to read and follow work orders, safety instructions, and equipment manuals.
• Ability to complete basic mathematical calculations to measure materials, distances, and quantities.
• Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team to complete assigned work safely and efficiently.
• Ability to recognize and address potential safety or maintenance issues.
• Must be dependable, punctual, and able to work outdoors in varying weather conditions, including extreme heat and cold.
• Commitment to maintaining a safe, clean, and organized work environment.
• Maintain all licenses and certifications required for assigned duties.

Desired Qualifications:

• Previous experience operating snow plows, skid-steers, tractors, or other light commercial construction or grounds equipment.
• Experience with turf care, landscaping, irrigation systems, tree and shrub maintenance, and athletic field preparation.
• Familiarity with chemical handling and application safety procedures.
• Valid State of Iowa 3OT Ornamental and Turf Pest Control applicators license.

Reports to:

Maintenance and Grounds Supervisor

Job Goal:

Ensure that all district grounds, athletic fields, and outdoor spaces are maintained in a safe, attractive, and functional condition through effective operation of equipment, seasonal maintenance, and general upkeep.

Performance Responsibilities:

• Perform routine and seasonal grounds maintenance, including mowing, trimming, edging, seeding, fertilizing, watering, aerating, and weed control.
• Maintain landscaped areas, trees, shrubs, and flower beds through pruning, mulching, and replacement planting.
• Operate and maintain equipment such as mowers, snow plows, skid-steers, tractors, trimmers, blowers, and related attachments.
• Assist with snow and ice removal by operating plows, spreading salt or ice melt, and performing manual shoveling as needed.
• Prepare and maintain athletic fields, playgrounds, and outdoor activity areas for school and community use.
• Perform minor repairs and preventive maintenance on vehicles and grounds equipment.
• Inspect assigned areas regularly to identify hazards or maintenance needs and report them promptly.
• Assist with setup and takedown for special events as directed.
• Participate in the district's on-call rotation for after-hours maintenance response, typically up to two weeks per year, and respond promptly to emergency calls when assigned.
• Substitute for building-based custodial absences, as directed.
• Maintain accurate records of work performed, materials used, and equipment maintenance.
• Follow district safety protocols, including use of personal protective equipment and safe chemical handling.
• Attend required training and staff meetings.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Physical Demands:

• Ability to stand, walk, bend, stoop, and lift for extended periods.
• Must be capable of lifting up to 50 pounds and performing physically demanding outdoor work in all weather conditions.
• Ability to operate and perform maintenance on motorized equipment and tools.

Terms of Employment:

• Hours and work as assigned by the Maintenance and Grounds Supervisor or Director of Buildings and Grounds.
• Salary determined by negotiated agreement.

Evaluation:

Performance of this job will be evaluated annually in accordance with provisions of the Board's policy on Evaluation of Classified Personnel.

Disclaimer: The statements of this job description are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by individuals assigned to this job. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel in this position. These statements are not intended to limit or in any way modify the right of any supervisor to assign, direct, and control the work of employees under his or her supervision.

It is the policy of the Southeast Polk Community School District not to illegally discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, gender, disability, religion, creed, age (for employment), marital status (for programs), genetic information (for employment), sexual orientation, gender identity and socioeconomic status (for programs) in its educational programs and its employment practices. There is a grievance procedure for processing complaints of discrimination. If you have questions or a grievance related to this policy please contact, Dr. Justin Colbert, Deputy Superintendent, Equal Opportunity Coordinator and Title IX Coordinator, Southeast Polk District Office, 8031 NE University Ave., Pleasant Hill, IA 50327, [phone], or [e-mail]. Inquiries or grievances may also be directed to the Iowa Civil Rights Commission, Des Moines, IA, 50319-0201, [phone]; or the U.S. Department of Education, Region VII Office of Civil Rights, 500 West Madison Street, Suite 1475, Chicago IL 60661.