GROUNDSKEEPER I

University of Alabama at Birmingham; Birmingham (AL); On-site; USD 20,664 - 22,041; Full time

Job summary

The University of Alabama at Birmingham is seeking a Groundskeeper to maintain lawns, planted materials, sidewalks, parking lots, and outdoor facilities across campus. The role supports other maintenance personnel and ensures a clean, safe campus environment.

Must be able to lift 50 pounds, hold a valid U.S. driver's license, and pass university guidelines. Starting hourly rate is $15.00–$16.25 with a schedule of Mon–Fri, 6:00 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.

Qualifications

• Ability to read and write well enough to understand written and oral instructions.
• Ability to operate riding or power movers, power tools, and hand tools.
• Ability to work as part of a team.
• Ability to communicate effectively.
• Ability to manage time and workload.
• Attention to detail in outdoor maintenance.

Responsibilities

• Mow and maintain grass and ground cover using professional tools.
• Edge and trim around trees, beds, sidewalks, and buildings for a neat appearance.
• Keep grounds and hardscape free of trash; empty receptacles daily and clean areas.
• Assist other team members on special projects and trainings.
• Monitor plant health and irrigation; report issues to supervisor.
• Maintain a professional demeanor and answer inquiries from campus visitors.

Skills

Reading & writing

Operate power tools

Teamwork

Communication

Time management

Attention to detail

Education

High School diploma or GED

Job description

The primary accountabilities below are intended to describe the general content and requirements of this position and are not intended to be an exhaustive statement of duties.

JOB SUMMARY

Performs routine and project maintenance of University grounds which includes lawns, exterior planted materials (trees, bushes, plants, etc.), sidewalks, parking lots, driveways, trash receptacles, outside furnishings and equipment, patios, decks, artwork, athletic fields, running tracks, and other areas. May be called upon to perform the work of or assist other maintenance personnel including, but not limited to, Outside Construction Workers, Painters and outside contractors. Performs other duties and responsibilities if assigned or directed by Division management and supervision.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

• Maintains grass and ground cover by mowing, weeding, planting and watering according to schedule and season, safely using professional‑grade power and manual tools and equipment.
• Edges and trims grass around trees and planted beds, sidewalks, curbs and buildings to maintain a professional appearance.
• Keeps grounds, sidewalks, stairs, parking lots and other hard‑scape areas clean and free of trash and debris. Empties and cleans trash receptacles daily. Power‑sweeps or blows debris from pedestrian and vehicle areas. Prepares in advance of and cleans up after inclement weather conditions by clearing drains, covering vulnerable plants, salting icy areas and removing debris.
• Assists other team members with special projects. Actively participates in ongoing department training. Uses assigned communication device to read and respond to texts and emails.
• Remains alert to signs of dying plants, broken irrigation systems or other damage to university campus grounds or facilities. Reports issues to department leader.
• Consistently projects a professional and positive demeanor. Communicates professionally with team members and answers inquiries from visitors and the university community.

KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS/ABILITIES

• Ability to read and write well enough to be able to comprehend written and oral instructions.
• Ability to operate riding or power mover, power tools, and hand tools.
• Ability to work as part of a team.
• Ability to communicate.
• Ability to manage time and workload effectively.
• Attention to detail.

STARTING HOURLY RATE

$15.00 - $16.25 (Commensurate with experience and qualifications)

WORK SCHEDULE

Must be able to work a flexible schedule, including Monday - Friday, 6:00 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. (subject to change to meet the needs of the University).

QUALIFICATIONS

High School diploma or GED required.

LICENSES / CERTIFICATIONS / REGISTRATIONS

Driving record should meet University underwriting guidelines to drive vehicles in performance of University business. Current underwriting guidelines include possession of a valid driver’s license, issued in the United States; at least 21 years of age; at least three years of driving experience; maintain an acceptable Motor Vehicle Record (MVR).

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Lifting and carrying a minimum of fifty (50) pounds.
• Perform tasks requiring climbing stairs, bending, stooping, crawling, kneeling, pulling and/or pushing, and extensive walking significant distances between and within buildings on campus.
• Working in the rain and in unfavorable weather conditions, hot, cold, wet, etc.
• Working in confined spaces.
• Working within extreme temperature ranges.

EEO STATEMENT

UAB is an Equal Employment/Equal Educational Opportunity Institution dedicated to providing equal opportunities and equal access to all individuals regardless of race, color, religion, ethnic or national origin, sex (including pregnancy), genetic information, age, disability, and veteran's status. As required by Title IX, UAB prohibits sex discrimination in any education program or activity that it operates. Individuals may report concerns or questions to UAB's Assistant Vice President and Senior Title IX Coordinator. The Title IX notice of nondiscrimination is located at uab.edu/titleix.