Groundskeeper I

Iowa State University; Ames (IA); On-site; USD 28,000 - 36,000; Full time

Job summary

Iowa State University is seeking a Groundskeeper I to join our Facilities Planning and Management team in Ames. Under supervision, you will operate power equipment, trucks, and light machinery to maintain lawns, beds, and pathways across campus.

The role includes seasonal tasks such as leaf removal and snow clearing, with a Monday–Friday schedule (6:00 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.). A valid U.S. driver's license is required, and applicant must be legally authorized to work in the U.S.

Qualifications

• One year of groundskeeping machinery experience or equivalent.
• Valid U.S. driver's license required.
• Ability to operate and maintain power equipment and light machinery.
• Willingness to perform seasonal maintenance including leaf removal and snow removal.

Responsibilities

• Operates tractors with attachments to landscape and maintain grounds including lawn areas, sidewalks, parking lots and streets.
• Maintains attachments and performs minor 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.

Skills

Mowing experience

Grading experience

Planting experience

Tree & shrub maintenance

Tools

CDL Class B with air brake

Motor vehicle inspector certification

Job description

Position Title:

Groundskeeper I

Job Group:

Merit

Required 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 Qualifications

Valid U.S. Driver’s License

Job 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 Qualifications

• Mowing experience
• Grading experience
• Planting experience
• Tree and shrub maintenance experience
• Commercial Drivers License (CDL), Class B with air brake, motor vehicle inspector certification

The 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.

Why 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 plans
• Generous vacation, holiday, and sick time and leave plans
• Onsite childcare (Ames, Iowa)
• Life insurance and long-term disability
• Flexible Spending Accounts
• Various voluntary benefits and discounts
• Employee Assistance Program
• Wellbeing program

Appointment Type:

Regular

Number of Months Employed Per Year:

12 Month Work Period

Time Type:

Full time

Pay Grade:

5731a

Original Posting Date:

October 27, 2026

Posting Close Date:

November 7, 2026

Job Requisition Number:

R20150

Iowa 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.