Groundskeeper I

Iowa State University; Ames (IA); On-site; USD 21,000 - 30,000; Full time

Job summary

Iowa State University is seeking a Groundskeeper I to maintain the campus grounds under supervision, operating power equipment, trucks, and light machinery, and performing mowing, trimming, and planting tasks across seasons.

The role includes seasonal maintenance such as leaf removal and snow clearing, collaborating with the groundskeeping team to uphold campus beauty and safety. Schedule is Monday–Friday, 6:00 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.; valid driver’s license required.

Qualifications

• One year of experience operating the machinery and tools used in groundskeeping or an equivalent mix of related experience and education totaling one year.

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.
• Responds to calls for emergency service, including snow removal, as required.

Skills

Groundskeeping experience

Equipment operation

Tools

Power equipment operation

Tractor operation

Snow removal equipment

Job description

• 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.

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.

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].