Grounds Equipment Operator

The Chronicle Of Higher Education, Inc.; Fort Worth (TX); On-site; USD 40,000 - 48,000; Full time

Job summary

Texas Christian University is seeking a Grounds Equipment Operator to maintain landscape and hardscape by operating commercial landscaping equipment. The role requires performing daily duties with focus on equipment maintenance and safety.

The position involves leading a work team, coordinating with facilities staff, and ensuring compliance with regulations while managing inventory and executing assigned tasks on campus.

Qualifications

• Some formal education required.
• 3 years of experience in care of plants, trees, and lawns, including knowledge of operations and repair of ground equipment.
• Must have a valid Texas driver's license and be insurable under university vehicle requirements.
• Satisfactory results from a post-offer physical examination.

Responsibilities

• Operates commercial landscaping equipment to maintain landscape and hardscape.
• Develops, constructs, repairs and maintains landscape projects.
• Performs preventive maintenance and troubleshoots equipment malfunctions.
• Maintains supplies inventory and orders as needed.
• Ensures compliance with building codes and safety regulations.
• Documents actions and communicates needs to team to ensure continuity.
• Acts as functional lead for landscaping equipment and related tasks.

Skills

Knowledge of landscaping techniques

Safety regulations

Basic arithmetic

Customer service

Equipment operation and repair

Verbal communication

Education

Some formal education

Job description

Job Summary

The Grounds Equipment Operator is responsible for maintaining landscape and hardscape by operating commercial landscaping equipment.

Duties & Essential Job Functions

1. Achieves daily work objectives by operating commercial landscaping equipment such as large mowers, backhoes and bobcats in developing, constructing, repairing and maintaining landscape and hardscape projects.
2. Ensures operation of tools and equipment by completing preventive maintenance requirements; following manufacturer’s instructions; troubleshooting malfunctions; calling for repairs; maintaining equipment inventories; evaluating new equipment and techniques.
3. Maintains supplies inventory by checking stock to determine inventory level; anticipating needed supplies; placing and expediting orders for supplies; verifying receipt of supplies.
4. Complies with federal, state and local building codes by adhering to requirements; advising management on needed actions.
5. Maintains safe and clean environment by complying with procedures, rules and regulations.
6. Maintains continuity among work teams by documenting and communicating actions, irregularities and continuing needs.
7. Serves as functional lead for commercial landscaping equipment.
8. Performs other related duties as assigned.

Required Education & Experience

• Some formal education.
• 3 years of experience in the care of plants, trees, and lawns, including knowledge of operations and repair of ground equipment.

Preferred Education & Experience

• None

Required Licensure/Certification/Specialized Training

• Valid Texas Driver's License.
• Must be insurable under the university motor vehicle requirements.
• Satisfactory results from a post-offer physical examination.

Preferred Licensure, Certification, and/or Specialized Training

• None

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Knowledge of specialized landscaping techniques.
• Knowledge of safety regulations.
• Knowledge of basic arithmetic functions.
• Knowledge of customer service techniques.
• Skill in operating and repairing commercial landscaping equipment such as large mowers, backhoes and bobcats.
• Ability to communicate technical information verbally.

TCU Core Competencies

University Core Competencies definitions may be found on the Human Resources website and in the staff performance management system.

Physical Requirements (With or Without Accommodations)

• Visual acuity to read information from computer screens, forms and other printed materials and information.
• Able to speak (enunciate) clearly in conversation and general communication.
• Hearing ability for verbal communication/conversation/responses via telephone, telephone systems, and face-to-face interactions.
• Manual dexterity for typing, writing, standing and reaching, flexibility, body movement for bending, crouching, walking, kneeling, climbing ladders and stairs, and prolonged sitting.
• Lifting and moving objects and equipment up to 50 lbs.

Work Environment

• Work is outdoors under variable weather conditions that can, at times, be extreme (high temperature and humidity levels, as well as freezing and icy water). This position is not sedentary and is subject to schedule changes and/or variable work hours.
• May be exposed to automotive fluids while conducting operator maintenance actions. May be exposed to chemical fertilizers.
• The noise level in this work environment is usually moderate, but can be noisy due to exposure to noise from motorized equipment and tools.
• This role is an on-campus, in-person position.

Employment Values Statement

Texas Christian University values Integrity, Engagement, Community, and Excellence in the workplace. TCU treats applicants and employees with fairness and respect. TCU hires and promotes individuals based on their qualifications and their commitment to making a positive impact on our student-centered community. TCU is an equal opportunity employer and follows all applicable employment laws. TCU fairly considers all qualified individuals, ensuring we are a workplace free from unlawful discrimination and harassment.