Groundskeeper (CM)

Township High School District 214; Buffalo Grove (IL); On-site; USD 49,000 - 66,000; Full time

Job summary

Township High School District 214 in Buffalo Grove is seeking a Groundskeeper (CM) for a 12-month assignment at BGHS. The position offers a 40-hour week with a start date in late summer and a salary of $27.64 per hour following the CMA agreement.

Responsibilities include maintaining safe outdoor spaces, operating grounds equipment, performing snow removal, and ensuring proper handling of fuels and chemicals. A valid IL driver’s license and experience in athletic field maintenance are required.

Qualifications

• Must have valid driver’s license and safe driving record.
• Must be able to lift up to 40 lbs regularly and up to 80 lbs occasionally.
• Must perform physical labor in various weather conditions and stand/walk for long periods.

Responsibilities

• Maintain outdoor environment to be safe, clean, and attractive for students and staff.
• Perform snow removal and salting as needed.
• Operate and maintain grounds equipment; keep tools and vehicles clean and serviced.
• Protect and apply chemicals safely; follow storage and handling procedures.
• Set up outdoor fields and activities in accordance with IHSA rules and regulations.
• Report safety concerns and needed repairs to the supervisor.

Skills

Communication skills

Safety PPE

Physical stamina

Driver’s license

Ability to lift 40–80 lbs

Climb stairs & ladders

Operate grounds equipment

Observational skills

Teamwork

Attention to safety

Education

District-recognized course in grounds maintenance

IHSA rules and regulations course for athletic field layout

Job description

DESCRIPTION:

Groundskeeper (CM) Initial Location: BGHS 40 hours/week MMS14-Grade I Effective: August 21, 2026

SALARY:

Grade I, MMS14, Step 1, $27.64

Salary schedule is listed in the CMA agreement linked here.

ASSIGNMENT:

12 Month

GENERAL RESPONSIBILITIES:

Perform duties necessary to maintain a safe, secure, attractive, and clean outdoor environment to meet the needs of students, staff, and the general public. This would include cleaning, snow removal, operating and maintaining grounds equipment, setting up outdoor sports and other activities, and any special projects assigned. Ensure the proper application, storage, and use of all grounds-related chemicals and fuels. Ensure the safe and efficient operation of all grounds related equipment and systems.

Qualifications:

• Maintained regular attendance with no occurrences of attendance abuse during the previous two years as described in Article 13 Section E of the current agreement.
• Must be able to communicate effectively and appropriately, as well as exhibit patience and understanding with students, staff, and the general public.
• Must be able to understand and follow written and verbal instructions.
• Must be able to use prescribed safety and personal protective equipment.
• Must be able to lift up to 40 lbs. on a frequent basis and up to 80 lbs. on an occasional basis.
• Must be able to perform difficult physical labor in variable weather conditions such as hot, cold, rain, snow, wind, etc.
• Must be able to climb stairs and ladders on a frequent basis, and work from scaffolding and lifts on an occasional basis.
• Must be able to stand, walk, bend, twist, and reach while performing various assignments as well as operate all related equipment.
• Must have an appropriate and valid driver's license and a safe driving record.
• Must have the knowledge, skills, and physical ability in landscape work and athletic field maintenance.
• Must have the knowledge, skills, and physical ability to operate tractors, mowers, trucks, and other vehicles and equipment as is necessary in performance of the job.
• Must have demonstrated the ability to properly care for and maintain grounds-keeping machinery and equipment.
• Must have a current Illinois Department of Agriculture operator's license.
• Must have successfully completed a District-recognized course in grounds maintenance, and a District-recognized course in IHSA rules and regulations for athletic field layout.
• The District Training Committee will attempt to identify and pre-approve all recognized courses. If the committee is unable to identify a recognized course, equivalent training and work experience as approved by the committee may be accepted.
• Employees are encouraged to enhance their qualifications by participating in an OJT Program.

Position Expectations:

• Maintain the knowledge, skills, and physical ability necessary to perform routine manual work in the planting, fertilizing, and spraying of lawns, flowers, shrubs, and trees, the pruning of trees and shrubs, mowing and trimming of the grassy areas and maintenance of exterior finishes.
• Maintain the knowledge, skills, and physical ability necessary to layout and set up fields according to current IHSA rules and regulations, and to maintain the athletic fields in good condition.
• Maintain a current Illinois Department of Agriculture operator's license.
• Perform snow removal and salting.
• Keep grounds and parking areas clean and orderly.
• Keep tools, equipment, and vehicles clean, properly maintained, and stored.
• Secure school equipment to prevent unauthorized use.
• Perform inside work as directed by the supervisor.
• Maintain an appropriate and valid driver's license and a safe driving record.
• Be observant and inform the supervisor of potential trouble spots in the operation of building systems and equipment to prevent a failure or breakdown.
• Observe and comply with appropriate required codes.
• Perform assigned tasks in the amount of time appropriate to the task at hand.
• Identify and take action to remedy potential safety and health problems.
• Project a positive image of the District to students, staff, and the general public.
• Report in writing to the supervisor any observed misuses and needed repairs to school property.
• Participate in District-sponsored training programs to maintain and update knowledge, skills, certifications and licenses as required for this position.
• Effectively communicate and appropriately respond to various forms of electronic communication provided by the District.
• Perform additional related duties as assigned.

We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our district. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.