Groundskeeper

Texas State Technical College; Harlingen (TX); On-site; USD 28,000 - 33,000; Full time

Job summary

Texas State Technical College is seeking a Groundskeeper to maintain campus outdoor areas, ensuring the grounds are attractive, safe, and welcoming for students and visitors.

The role requires operating lawn care equipment, adhering to safety guidelines, and supporting events and seasonal preparations across the campus. A valid Texas driver's license is required and compensation is $20.13–$24.16 per hour.

Qualifications

• Two years of combined training or experience in groundskeeping or landscaping.
• Ability to follow instructions and complete tasks with minimal supervision.
• Valid Texas Driver’s License and insurability under TSTC liability policy.

Responsibilities

• Maintain campus grounds including lawn care, pruning, mulching.
• Operate and maintain groundskeeping equipment.
• Ensure outdoor cleanliness and safety for campus.
• Support campus events and seasonal preparations.
• Safely operate state vehicles and grounds utility vehicles.
• Report hazards and coordinate with Facilities.

Skills

Grounds maintenance

Equipment operation

Safety compliance

Communication

Physical stamina

Education

Groundskeeping experience

Texas Driver’s License

Tools

Mowers

Trimmers

Blowers

Irrigation tools

Job description

Are you someone who strives for excellence, values accountability, provides the best service, all while reflecting unwavering integrity? Our talented team members across the state follow the behaviors, beliefs and outcomes of these core values to ensure that our vision is met.

The Groundskeeper

The Groundskeeper is responsible for maintaining the appearance, safety, and cleanliness of the college’s outdoor areas. This role ensures that the campus grounds remain attractive and accessible for students, staff, faculty, and visitors. The Groundskeeper plays a key role in preserving a positive and welcoming campus environment.

The Target Range for the position is $20.13 - $24.16 per hour. The final salary offer will be determined based on the candidate's qualifications and experience.

Essential Functions

• Employee will demonstrate TSTC’s Core Values of Excellence, Accountability, Service, and Integrity with internal and external stakeholders, customers, students, and community members.
• Landscape and Grounds Maintenance: Perform lawn care, trimming, edging, weeding, pruning, mulching, and planting. Maintain trees, shrubs, and garden beds across campus.
• Grounds Equipment Operation and Care: Safely operate and maintain groundskeeping equipment such as mowers, trimmers, blowers, and irrigation tools. Perform routine checks and minor repairs.
• Outdoor Cleanliness and Upkeep: Pick up debris and trash from outdoor areas, maintain walkways, and ensure grounds remain clean and hazard-free.
• Building Access and Facilities Support: Access occupied and unoccupied buildings to support grounds-related tasks. Provide support for campus events and seasonal preparations.
• Equipment Management: Check out and properly use tools, equipment, and grounds supplies. Ensure proper care and return of issued items.
• Vehicle Operation: Safely operate state vehicles and grounds utility vehicles in accordance with campus policies.
• Communication and Coordination: Work with Facilities and other departments to complete scheduled tasks, report issues, and respond to grounds-related needs.
• Physical Exertion: Perform physically demanding labor, including lifting (30–60 lbs.), standing for extended periods, and working in awkward positions.
• Safety and Compliance: Follow all safety guidelines and PPE requirements. Maintain awareness of environmental conditions and apply appropriate hazard precautions.

Education & Experience

• Minimum Requirements:
• Two years of combined training or experience in groundskeeping or landscaping.
• Ability to follow instructions and complete tasks with minimal supervision.
• Valid Texas Driver’s License and insurability under TSTC liability policy.

Skills & Abilities

• Ability to perform landscape and grounds maintenance tasks and safely operate and maintain groundskeeping equipment, including routine inspections and minor repairs.
• Ability to perform physically demanding work (lifting 30–60 lbs., prolonged standing, working in varied positions) while consistently following safety guidelines, PPE requirements, and hazard precautions.
• Ability to properly use, care for, and return tools, equipment, supplies, and safely operate state and utility vehicles in accordance with campus policies.
• Ability to communicate effectively with Facilities staff and campus partners, coordinate tasks, report issues, and provide responsive support for campus needs and events.
• Ability to demonstrate TSTC’s Core Values of Excellence, Accountability, Service, and Integrity in all interactions with internal and external stakeholders.

Core Competencies

• Service Orientation: Demonstrates pride in the appearance of the campus and commitment to supporting a safe, welcoming environment.
• Dependability: Consistently shows up prepared to complete scheduled tasks and responds to work orders and supervisor directions promptly.
• Safety Awareness: Follows all safety guidelines and ensures proper use of equipment and protective gear in all outdoor environments.
• Attention to Detail: Identifies and addresses small issues before they become larger problems. Maintains neat, organized grounds.
• Communication: Provides timely updates to supervisor, reports hazards, and collaborates effectively with teammates.
• Physical Stamina: Performs demanding outdoor tasks in varying weather conditions, maintaining consistent performance throughout the workday.

Extra Duties Statement

This job description outlines the general responsibilities and expectations of the role. It is not intended to include every task or responsibility. Additional duties may be assigned by leadership as needed.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Texas State Technical College (TSTC), as an equal opportunity employer, complies with all applicable federal and state laws regarding nondiscrimination. TSTC is committed to a policy of equal opportunity for all persons and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, marital status, sex, sexual orientation, disability, religion, or veteran status in employment, educational programs and activities, and admissions.

Employment Eligibility Verification

If hired, you will be required to complete the federal Employment Eligibility Verification I-9 form. You will be required to present acceptable and original documents to prove your identity and authorization to work in the United States. Documents need to be presented no later than the third day of employment. Failure to do so will result in loss of employment at TSTC.

Background Checks

A criminal history background check will be required for the finalist(s) under consideration for this position.

TSTC is the only state-supported technical college system in Texas. TSTC's statewide role and mission is to efficiently and effectively help Texas meet the high‑tech challenges of today's global economy, in partnership with business and industry, government agencies, and other educational institutions.

TSTC publishes the Annual Security Report (ASR), which includes the Annual Fire Safety Report (AFSR), to ensure that essential information about campus safety is readily accessible. This report includes data on crimes and fire incidents from the past three calendar years, outlining safety measures, reporting protocols, and emergency response plans. It also highlights crime prevention programs and support resources available to the campus community. These reports underscore TSTC's commitment to fostering a safe and informed environment for all students, employees, and visitors.

For more information, the report is available on the Clery Act Information page of the TSTC website at
tstc.edu/cleryact, and physical paper copies can be requested from the TSTC Police Department or by calling 254-867-3690.