Groundskeeper III

HOUSTON APARTMENT FOUNDATION; Kerrville (TX); On-site; USD 32,000 - 46,000; Full time

Job summary

Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) is seeking a Groundskeeper III to perform complex groundskeeping duties at a State Hospital. You will mow, weed, fertilize, plant and maintain flower beds and trees, operate power equipment, and assist with nuisance animals.

Some weekend or after-hours callouts may be required. Position requires ability to read instructions, basic math, and teamwork with maintenance staff.

Qualifications

• Six months’ experience in vegetation planting/maintenance or related groundskeeping duties.
• Six months’ experience operating power equipment such as mowers, chainsaws, backhoes, etc.
• Knowledge of groundskeeping tasks, equipment care, and safety practices.
• Ability to read, understand, and apply instructions; basic mathematical skills.

Responsibilities

• Perform routine groundskeeping duties: mowing, trimming, fertilizing, planting flowers, and maintaining trees and shrubs; plant new beds as directed.
• Operate tractors and other equipment safely; perform minor repairs and preventative maintenance; manage tool inventories.
• Keep roads, parking lots, sidewalks, and grounds free of debris; respond to weather-related needs (e.g., clearing ice, snow, or debris after heavy rain).
• Assist in managing nuisance animals in and around the hospital when needed.
• Collaborate with maintenance staff on general maintenance, repairs, and construction work; drive non-CDL trucks to transport materials.

Skills

Groundskeeping

Power equipment

Safety practices

Reading instructions

Teamwork

Tools

Mowers

Tractors

Backhoes

Job description

Overview

Join the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) and be part of a team committed to creating a positive impact in the lives of fellow Texans. HHSC supports employees at each stage of life and work. The benefits package includes 100% paid employee health insurance for full-time eligible employees, a defined benefit pension plan, generous time off, opportunities for career advancement, and more. Details are available on the Benefits of Working at HHS webpage.

Position Summary

Groundskeeper III performs complex (journey-level) groundskeeping work at a State Hospital. Maintains and improves the appearance of grounds and flower beds, including mowing, weeding, fertilizing, and ensuring effective operation of sprinkler systems. Removes, plants, and trims trees and shrubs. Safely operates power- and gas-operated equipment. Maintains tools, supplies, and equipment. Performs minor repairs on equipment and assists in minimizing nuisance animals around the hospital. Some weekend or after-hours callouts may be required. Works under general supervision with limited latitude for initiative and independent judgment.

Essential Responsibilities

• Perform routine groundskeeping duties: mowing, trimming, fertilizing, planting flowers, and maintaining trees and shrubs; plant new beds as directed.
• Operate tractors and other equipment safely; perform minor repairs and preventative maintenance; manage tool inventories.
• Keep roads, parking lots, sidewalks, and grounds free of debris; respond to weather-related needs (e.g., clearing ice, snow, or debris after heavy rain).
• Assist in managing nuisance animals in and around the hospital when needed.
• Collaborate with maintenance staff on general maintenance, repairs, and construction work; drive non-CDL trucks to transport materials.
• Occasionally work alternate shifts or locations as required for disaster response, COOP activation, or other agency needs.

Qualifications and KSAs

• Six months’ experience as a laborer, gardener, groundskeeper, or similar role; six months’ experience operating power equipment (e.g., mowers, tractors, backhoes, chain saws).
• Knowledge of groundskeeping tasks, equipment care, and safety practices; ability to operate groundskeeping equipment.
• Ability to read, understand, and apply instructions; basic mathematical skills; effective oral and written communication.
• Physical ability to stand/walk for extended periods, lift/carry up to 50 lbs, and work in hot or cold conditions.
• Ability to work harmoniously with coworkers and patients; willingness to learn horticulture basics relevant to job duties.

Licensure, Registrations and Screenings

Must possess a valid Texas driver license or obtain within 90 days of hire. Out-of-state license holders must provide an original certified driving record. Eligible driving record required per HHSC Fleet Management policy.

Experience and Screening Criteria

Minimum qualifications include:

• Six months’ experience in vegetation planting/maintenance or related groundskeeping duties.
• Six months’ experience operating power equipment such as mowers, chainsaws, backhoes, etc.

Additional Information

• Applicants must pass fingerprint background checks, pre-employment drug screen, and registry checks (CANRS, Nurse Aide, Medication Aide, Employee Misconduct, LEIE). Males 18–25 must be registered with Selective Service.
• All applicants must be at least 18 years old; Waco and Terrell Center for Youth applicants must be 21.
• Flexibility in hours; overtime and extended hours may be required. Immunization policy compliance is required; vaccines may be mandated depending on exposure risk, with protective measures if not immunized.
• Review the Tips for Success when applying for jobs at DFPS, DSHS and HHSC.

ADA, Privacy and Employment Eligibility

• HHSC provides reasonable accommodations during hiring for qualified individuals.
• Pre-employment checks may include background checks and other due diligence. HHSC uses E-Verify; bring I-9 documentation on the first day.

Note: This description reflects current duties and is subject to change. The posting may include additional information or updates.