GROUNDS KEEPER I

University of Georgia; Athens (GA); On-site; USD 32,000 - 39,000; Full time

Job summary

University of Georgia in Athens, GA is seeking a Grounds Keeper I to perform routine grounds maintenance and operate a range of equipment. The role requires lifting up to 75 lbs, long periods of standing, and adherence to safety procedures.

You will work Monday through Friday, 6:00am to 2:30pm, with duties including mowing, weed control, mulching, and trash management across campus. The position is full-time with benefits eligibility and offers the chance to contribute to campus maintenance and

Qualifications

• Knowledge of grounds maintenance trades.
• Experience with grounds maintenance equipment.
• Ability to understand and follow oral and written instructions.

Responsibilities

• Operate back pack blowers, weed trimmers and edgers (40%)
• Operate lawn mowers and mowing grass (40%)
• Weed control on campus (10%)
• Mulching and trash control on campus (10%)

Skills

Grounds maintenance knowledge

Equipment experience

Ability to follow instructions

Physical stamina

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Job description

Posting Details

Posting Number: S15866P

Working Title: GROUNDS KEEPER I

Department: FMD-Grounds-Maintenance

About the University of Georgia: Chartered by the state of Georgia in 1785, the University of Georgia is the birthplace of public higher education in America and is the state's flagship university (https://www.uga.edu/). The proof is in our more than 240 years of academic and professional achievements and our continual commitment to higher education. UGA is currently ranked among the top 20 public universities in U.S. News & World Report. The University's main campus is located in Athens, approximately 65 miles northeast of Atlanta, with extended campuses in Atlanta, Griffin, Gwinnett, and Tifton. UGA employs approximately 3,100 faculty and more than 7,700 full-time staff. The University's enrollment exceeds 41,000 students including over 31,000 undergraduates and over 10,000 graduate and professional students. Academic programs reside in 19 schools and colleges, including our newly established School of Medicine.

Posting Type: External

Retirement Plan: TRS

Employment Type: Employee

Benefits Eligibility: Benefits Eligible

Full/Part time: Full Time

Additional Schedule Information: M-F 6:00am - 2:30pm

Advertised Salary: 35,200

Posting Date: 10/07/2026

Open until filled: Yes

Proposed Starting Date: 11/08/2026

Location of Vacancy: Athens Area

EEO Policy Statement: The University of Georgia is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, color, disability, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, or veteran status or other protected status. Persons needing accommodations or assistance with the accessibility of materials related to this search are encouraged to contact Central HR ([e-mail]).

USG Core Values Statement: The University System of Georgia is comprised of our 25 institutions of higher education and learning, as well the System Office. Our USG Statement of Core Values are Integrity, Excellence, Accountability, and Respect. These values serve as the foundation for all that we do as an organization, and each USG community member is responsible for demonstrating and upholding these standards. More details on the USG Statement of Core Values and Code of Conduct are available in USG Board Policy 08.02.18.01.02. Additionally, USG supports Freedom of Expression as stated in Board Policy 06.05 Freedom of Expression and Academic Freedom.

Position Information

Classification Title: Groundskeeper I

FLSA: Non-Exempt

FTE: 1.00

Minimum Qualifications: High school diploma or equivalent

Position Summary: This is manual laboring work of more than ordinary difficulty often involving the performance of semi-skilled duties. Work involves the performance of laboring tasks involving some job-acquired skills, which frequently include operating automotive equipment and providing semi-skilled assistance to trade workers. Employee will be expected to perform regular grounds maintenance duties such as mowing, weeding, leaf removal and operating various types of grounds equipment, including mowers, back pack blowers, weed trimmers, edgers, trucks, and tractors as well as any type work deemed necessary by the supervisor. Duties which are of a routine nature are performed with some degree of independence; the more skilled tasks, however, are performed under closer supervision. An employee may drive a truck and some light construction equipment, involving responsibility for safe and efficient operation.

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities and/or Competencies:

• Knowledge of the grounds maintenance trades.
• Experience with grounds maintenance equipment.
• Ability to understand and follow oral and written instructions.

Physical Demands:

• Lifting up to 75 lbs. throughout an 8.0 hour work day.
• Stand/walk for long periods of time, stoop, bend, work from a standard and extended ladder, and work with hands above head.
• Perform duties under adverse weather and/or climate conditions (rain, heat and cold).
• Driving to perform job related duties.

Is driving a responsibility of this position? Yes

Is this a Position of Trust? Yes

Does this position have operation, access, or control of financial resources? No

Does this position require a P-Card? No

Is having a P-Card an essential function of this position? No

Does this position have direct interaction or care of children under the age of 18 or direct patient care? No

Does this position have Security Access (e.g., public safety, IT security, personnel records, patient records, or access to chemicals and medications)? Yes

Credit and P-Card policy: Be advised a credit check will be required for all positions with financial responsibilities. For additional information about the credit check criteria, visit the UGA Credit Background Check website.

Background Investigation Policy: Offers of employment are contingent upon completion of a background investigation including, a criminal background check demonstrating your eligibility for employment with the University of Georgia; confirmation of the credentials and employment history reflected in your application materials (including reference checks) as they relate to the job-based requirements of the position applied for; and, if applicable, a satisfactory credit check. You may also be subject to a pre-employment drug test for positions with high-risk responsibilities, if applicable. Please visit the UGA Background Check website.

Duties & Responsibilities

• Operate back pack blowers, weed trimmers and edgers (40%)
• Operate lawn mowers and mowing grass (40%)
• Weed control on campus (10%)
• Mulching and trash control on campus (10%)