Groundskeeper I

Iowa State University; Washington (District of Columbia); On-site; USD 36,000 - 48,000; Full time

Job summary

Iowa State University is seeking a Groundskeeper I to maintain the university's grounds and landscape. Under direct supervision, you will operate power equipment, trim, mow, plant, and perform seasonal tasks to keep campus attractive and safe.

Typical schedule is Monday through Friday, 6:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. The role requires a valid U.S. driver's license and about one year of groundskeeping-related experience or education. This is a regular, full-time position with comprehensive benefits.

Qualifications

• One year of experience in groundskeeping or related education/experience.
• Valid U.S. Driver's License.

Responsibilities

• Operates tractors with attachments to landscape and maintain grounds.
• Maintains equipment and performs minor repairs.
• Performs mowing, trimming, planting, and seasonal maintenance.
• Assists with snow removal and leaf cleanup as needed.

Skills

Power equipment operation

Mowing & trimming

Snow removal & leaf cleanup

Tractor and attachment use

Tools

CDL Class B

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

If 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

Regular

Number of Months Employed Per Year

12 Month Work Period

Time Type

Full time

Pay Grade

5731a

Original Posting Date

August 21, 2026

Posting Close Date

September 25, 2026

Job Requisition Number

R19833

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.