Groundskeeper I

Inside Higher Ed; Athens (GA); On-site; USD 31,050 - 37,950; Full time

Job summary

A public research institution in Athens, Georgia is seeking a Groundskeeper I to maintain grounds and landscaping. Responsibilities include routine landscaping tasks, turf health management, and waste management during events. This entry-level position requires a high school diploma and safe operation of landscape equipment. The role offers a starting salary of $34,500 and full-time hours with some weekend responsibilities during football season.

Qualifications

• Ability to perform routine landscaping tasks such as mowing, planting, and fertilizing.
• Must be able to maintain turf health and manage waste during events.
• Required to operate and maintain landscape tools safely.

Responsibilities

• Perform routine landscaping tasks: pruning, mulching, mowing, planting, and fertilizing.
• Manage waste flow during football games.
• Maintain landscape tools and equipment.

Skills

Safe operation of landscape equipment

Understanding of weed control spray applications

Knowledge of safety equipment usage

Ability to drive for work-related tasks

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Job description

Overview

The Groundskeeper I position is with the University of Georgia Center for Continuing Education & Hotel (The Georgia Center). The role is responsible for maintaining the grounds and landscaping, including care of trees, shrubs, turf, and seasonal plants. A basic understanding of irrigation systems and clock operation is essential.

About The University

The University of Georgia is a public research university with campuses across Athens and other locations. It employs faculty and staff across multiple schools and colleges and is part of the University System of Georgia.

Position Details

Posting Number: S14108P

Working Title: Groundskeeper I

Department: PSO-Cont Ed-Operating Services

Employment Type: Employee · Benefits Eligibility: Benefits Eligible · Full/Part Time: Full Time

Location: Athens Area

Salary: Starting at $34,500 (commensurate with experience)

Hours: 40.0 hours per week, Monday through Friday. Some weekends during football season.

Posting Date: 09/09/2025 · Open Until Filled: No · Closing Date: 09/15/2025 · Proposed Starting Date: 09/28/2025

Responsibilities

The Groundskeeper I is responsible for landscaping and grounds care, including:

• Perform routine landscaping tasks: pruning, mulching, mowing, planting, blowing, edging, tilling, watering, and fertilizing.
• Maintain turf health through aeration, grub treatment, and seasonal care.
• Install and propagate plants and turf across campus grounds.
• Support maintenance of landscaped areas such as Cobb House and Treanor.

Other duties as assigned.

• Waste and Debris Management: Manage trash flow during football home games and VIP events; transport organic debris to Bio Conversion facilities; clean roof drains and ensure proper drainage.

• Equipment and Vehicle Maintenance: Perform basic maintenance on landscape tools and equipment (oil changes, filter replacements, etc.); keep shop organized and stocked; operate and maintain state vehicles safely.

• Special Projects and Events: Collaborate with Facilities Management Division on infrastructure and landscaping projects; provide increased support during football season and other high-demand periods; assist with pressure washing and other cleaning tasks.

Percentage of time for these duties is allocated as described in the original posting (e.g., landscaping 65%, waste management 10%, maintenance 25%).

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications: High school diploma or equivalent

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Safe and proper operation of landscape equipment.
• Understanding of weed control spray applications.
• Knowledge of safety equipment usage.
• Ability to drive to perform work-related tasks.

Physical Demands

• Walk, stand, stoop, bend, climb stairs, lift, squat, work with hands above the head.
• Work under adverse weather conditions (hot, cold, rain).
• Driving as needed to perform duties.

Additional Information

• Is driving a responsibility of this position? Yes
• Is this a Position of Trust? No
• Does this position have operation or control of financial resources? No
• Does this position require a P-Card? No
• Is having a P-Card an essential function? No
• Does this position involve interaction with minors or patient care? No
• Security Access: No

Contact: For questions concerning this position, refer to the Recruitment Contact listed below.

Recruitment Contact Name: Leta Salazar

Recruitment Contact Email: [e-mail]

Seniority level

• Entry level

Industries

• Management and Manufacturing

End of refined description.