Groundskeeper I

Iowa State University; Ames (IA); On-site; USD 36,000 - 48,000; Full time

Job summary

Iowa State University in Ames, IA, seeks a Groundskeeper I to maintain university grounds year-round under supervision. You will operate power equipment, trucks, and light machinery, perform mowing, trimming, planting, and seasonal tasks such as leaf removal and snow clearing.

The role requires one year of groundskeeping experience or equivalent; a valid U.S. driver's license is required; CDL Class B with air brake is preferred.

Qualifications

• One year of experience in operating machinery and tools used in groundskeeping.
• Ability to safely operate and maintain equipment and hand/power tools.
• Knowledge of various groundskeeping techniques and safety procedures.

Responsibilities

• Operates tractors with attachments such as mowers, tillers, post hole diggers and snow plows to landscape and maintain grounds including lawn areas, sidewalks, parking lots and streets.
• Maintains attachments and performs minor emergency repairs.
• Operates and maintains power and hand mowing equipment.
• Assists in the cultivation and care of shrubs, trees and flowers as directed.
• Operates trucks and other transportation equipment as required.

Skills

Mowing experience

Grading experience

Planting experience

Tree maintenance

Lifting ability

Tools

CDL Class B with air brake

Job description

Position Title:Groundskeeper IJob Group:MeritRequired Minimum Qualifications:• One year of experience in operating the machinery and tools used in groundskeeping work or any combination of related experience and education from which comparable knowledge and ability can be acquired which totals one year.Special Required QualificationsValid U.S. Driver's LicenseJob Description:The Facilities Planning and Management Department at Iowa State University is seeking a dedicated Groundskeeper I to join our team. This position plays a vital role in maintaining the university's grounds, ensuring they remain attractive and well-kept throughout all seasons. Under direct supervision, the Groundskeeper I will operate and maintain power equipment, trucks, and light machinery, as well as perform a variety of landscaping tasks such as mowing, trimming, and planting. Seasonal maintenance, including leaf removal and snow clearing, is also a key part of the role. Working collaboratively with the groundskeeping team, this position helps uphold the beauty and safety of the campus.Preferred QualificationsMowing experienceGrading experiencePlanting experienceTree and shrub maintenance experienceCommercial Drivers License (CDL), Class B with air brake, motor vehicle inspector certificationThe position follows a schedule of Monday through Friday, 6:00 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.Join us and contribute to keeping Iowa State University’s campus looking its best year-round!Characteristic Duties and Responsibilities• Operates tractors with attachments such as mowers, tillers, post hole diggers and snow plows to landscape and maintain grounds including lawn areas, sidewalks, parking lots and streets.• Maintains attachments and makes minor emergency repairs.• Operates and maintains power and hand mowing equipment.• Assists in the cultivation and care of shrubs, trees and flowers as directed.• Operates trucks and other transportation equipment as required.• Responds to calls for emergency service, including snow removal, as required.Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities• Ability to understand and follow oral and written instructions and specifications.• Ability to safely operate and maintain equipment and hand/power tools.• Ability to apply various groundskeeping techniques to different work situations.• Ability to lift.Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. on an ongoing basis without sponsorship. Immigration sponsorship is not available for this position.Application Instructions:To apply for this position, please click on “Apply” and complete the Employment Application. Please be prepared to enter or attach the following:Resume/Curriculum VitaeLetter of Application/Cover LetterWhy Choose Iowa State University?Iowa State Employees enjoy comprehensive health and work-life benefits, including medical and dental, as well as:Retirement benefits including defined benefit and defined contribution plansGenerous vacation, holiday, and sick time and leave plansOnsite childcare (Ames, Iowa)Life insurance and long-term disabilityFlexible Spending AccountsVarious voluntary benefits and discountsEmployee Assistance ProgramWellbeing programIf you have questions regarding this application process, please email [e-mail], or call 515-294-4800 or Toll Free: 1-877-477-7485.Appointment Type:RegularNumber of Months Employed Per Year:12 Month Work PeriodTime Type:Full timePay Grade:5731aOriginal Posting Date:August 21, 2026Posting Close Date:September 3, 2026Job Requisition Number:R19833Iowa State University does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, age, ethnicity, religion, national origin, pregnancy, sexual orientation, genetic information, sex, marital status, disability, or status as a U.S. Veteran. Inquiries regarding non-discrimination policies may be directed to Office of Equal Opportunity, 2680 Beardshear Hall, 515 Morrill Road, Ames, Iowa 50011, Tel. [phone], email [e-mail] .General ISU compensation information can be found on the University Human Resources website. Please note that this is only a list of ranges and individuals will be paid commensurate with qualifications.