Grounds Manager

Kalahari Resorts & Conventions; Sandusky (OH); On-site; USD 50,000 - 60,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

401(k) matching

Paid time off

Health, dental, and vision coverage

Employee appreciation events, perks

Education assistance programs

Job summary

Kalahari Resorts & Conventions in Sandusky, OH is seeking a Grounds Manager to oversee landscape design, maintenance, and safe outdoor operations across the resort grounds.

You will lead the Grounds team, manage budgets, coordinate with operations, and ensure attractive, guest-friendly exteriors in all seasons. 2+ years in landscaping and supervisory experience are required; bilingual Spanish/English is a plus.

Qualifications

• At least 2 years of landscape experience, including layout.
• Supervisory experience is required or preferred.
• Driver's license is required.
• Bilingual in Spanish and English is helpful.

Responsibilities

• Lead, train, and develop the Grounds team to maintain a safe, beautiful outdoor environment that enhances guest and associate experiences.
• Oversee maintenance and appearance of all resort grounds, including landscaping, irrigation, plantings, walkways, and outdoor spaces.
• Develop and execute preventive maintenance programs for grounds equipment and assets.
• Coordinate with Operations, Facilities, Waterpark, and other departments for events and property appearance.
• Monitor budgets, inventory, vendor relationships, and project timelines while ensuring safety and regulatory compliance.

Skills

Landscape experience

Supervisory experience

Driver's License

Bilingual (Spanish/English)

Hospitality experience helpful

Job description

At Kalahari Resorts & Conventions, we don’t just create vacations—we craft unforgettable experiences. Home to America’s Largest Indoor Waterparks, our African-inspired resorts offer world-class dining, luxurious spas, thrilling entertainment, and cutting‑edge convention centers that redefine hospitality.

But we’re more than a resort. As a family‑owned company, our Promise is simple: Lead with Love. This means caring deeply for our guests, associates, and communities—treating people like family, giving back generously, and creating spaces where everyone feels valued.

Through our partnership with charity: water, we’re also committed to bringing clean water to one million people in Africa.

Grounds Manager

Kalahari Resorts & Conventions is seeking a Grounds Manager. In this role, you’ll oversee the planning, development, and implementation of landscape design around the resort grounds. You’ll be responsible for ensuring the property’s grounds are maintained in the best possible condition, with minimal inconvenience to guests and associates in all types of weather. This includes, but is not limited to, trimming grass, trees, and shrubs; removing and planting all types of plants; and removing snow and hazards/obstructions.

As part of our leadership team, you’ll embody our Promise to Lead with Love—guiding, supporting, and inspiring associates while delivering extraordinary guest experiences. You’ll play a key role in creating the exceptional first and lasting impressions that define the Kalahari experience. Through strong leadership and attention to detail, you’ll help create an environment that leaves lasting impressions, supports resort operations, and fosters pride among team members.

Salary Range - $50,000 - $60,000

Key Responsibilities

• Lead train, and develop the Grounds team to maintain a safe, beautiful, and welcoming outdoor environment that enhances the guest and associate experience.
• Oversee the maintenance and appearance of all resort grounds, including landscaping, irrigation systems, seasonal plantings, walkways, parking areas, and outdoor recreation spaces.
• Develop and execute preventive maintenance programs to ensure grounds equipment, tools, and outdoor assets are operating safely and efficiently.
• Partner with Resort Operations, Facilities, Waterpark, and other departments to support special events, seasonal initiatives, and the overall appearance and functionality of the property.
• Monitor budgets, inventory, vendor relationships, and project timelines while ensuring compliance with safety standards, environmental regulations, and company policies.

What We’re Looking For

• At least 2 years of landscape experience, including layout.
• Knowledge of planting and shrub maintenance.
• Must have at least 1-2 years of experience in a supervisory role.
• Must have a valid Driver’s License.
• Capable of delegating duties needed.
• Bilingual in Spanish and English is helpful.
• Previous hospitality or related experience is helpful.
• Previous experience with exterior plant maintenance is preferred.

Physical Requirements

• Possible heavy workloads: exerting up to 100 pounds of force to lift, carry, push, pull, or otherwise move objects occasionally, and/or more than 50 pounds of force frequently, and/or more than 20 pounds constantly.
• Bending, stooping, kneeling, reaching involved.
• Must be able to adapt to the changing weather, i.e., work in warm/humid, hot/humid, and cold/freezing outdoor environments.
• Be able to work flexible and long hours sometimes and weekends, nights, and holidays.

A Sampling of Our Benefits

Our team enjoys a comprehensive benefits package, including:

• Career growth opportunities with promotion from within
• 401(k) matching, paid time off, and holiday compensation
• Health, dental, and vision coverage for full‑time associates
• Employee appreciation events, discounts, and perks at all resorts
• Education assistance programs to help advance your career

Be Part of Something Extraordinary

At Kalahari, we believe the best leaders Lead with Love—because love builds trust, inspires growth, and creates experiences that last a lifetime. That’s why we’re proud to be recognized by Forbes as one of America’s Best Midsize Employers, America’s Best Employers for Women, and by USA TODAY as the #1 Best Indoor Water Park.

Here, careers thrive, innovation is encouraged, and every day brings new opportunities to create meaningful moments. Whether you’re delivering guest service, crafting memorable meals, or leading a team, your work makes a real impact.

| Wisconsin Dells, WI | Sandusky, OH | Pocono Manor, PA | Round Rock, TX | Spotsylvania County, VA |

Kalahari Resorts & Conventions is an Equal Opportunity Employer.