Groundskeeper (Maintenance Specialist I)

City of Charlottesville; Charlottesville (VA); On-site; USD 37,000 - 41,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a dedicated Groundskeeper to join their team. This full-time role involves performing essential grounds maintenance tasks in various city locations, ensuring the beauty and safety of public spaces. Candidates should possess strong communication skills, a valid driver's license, and the ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions. With excellent benefits and opportunities for professional growth, this position is perfect for those who enjoy physical work and community engagement. Join a team that values integrity, respect, and collaboration in making Charlottesville a great place to live.

Benefits

Paid holidays

Vacation

Sick leave

Health insurance

Life insurance

Retirement options

Gym reimbursement

Training opportunities

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED; or 2 years of relevant work experience.
• Minimum 6 months of related experience required.

Responsibilities

• Perform grounds maintenance tasks such as mowing and leaf removal.
• Address citizen concerns and maintain positive relationships.

Skills

Effective communication

Relationship-building

Knowledge of maintenance procedures

Physical outdoor work

Education

High school diploma or GED

2 years of relevant work experience

Tools

Routine maintenance equipment

Job description

City of Charlottesville - Groundskeeper (Maintenance Specialist I)

The City of Charlottesville is seeking motivated candidates for the position of Groundskeeper (Maintenance Specialist I). Candidates should demonstrate Charlottesville's Core Values of Commitment, Integrity, Respect, Innovation, and Collaboration.

Salary Range: $18.00 - $19.29 hourly ($37,440.00 - $40,123.20 annually).

This position is part of the Labor and Trades bargaining unit, with a starting pay based on education, experience, and internal equity. Future wages are subject to collective bargaining agreements effective July 1, 2025.

This full-time, non-exempt role offers excellent benefits including paid holidays, vacation, sick leave, health insurance, life insurance, retirement options, gym reimbursement, and training opportunities. For more details, visit the benefits tab or City Benefits Page.

The position involves performing grounds maintenance tasks such as mowing, fertilization, aeration, leaf removal, brush control, and snow removal. Responsibilities include maintenance, construction, landscape/horticultural duties in various city locations, and possibly supervising staff.

Note: This job is advertised with a "Continuous" closing date. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, and interviews may occur as qualified candidates are identified.

Operational and Safety Responsibilities

• Complete assigned tasks adhering to standards and safety regulations.
• Operate routine maintenance equipment.

Relationship Management

• Address citizen concerns and maintain positive relationships with peers, volunteers, and supervisors.

Financial and Human Resources

• Assist in inventory tracking and reporting needs for equipment and supplies.
• Participate in performance evaluations and training.

Reporting and Analysis

• Follow procedures for time and attendance; identify and suggest improvements for operational issues.

Minimum Requirements

• High school diploma, GED, or equivalent; or 2 years of relevant work experience if no diploma.
• Minimum 6 months of related experience.
• Valid driver’s license from Virginia; eligibility to operate a City vehicle.
• VDOT Flagger certification within 6 months; Class B CDL and Pesticide Certification may be required.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Effective communication and relationship-building skills.
• Ability to perform physical outdoor work in various weather conditions.
• Knowledge of maintenance, repair, and safety procedures for equipment and tools.

Physical Requirements

This role involves heavy physical work, including lifting up to 100 lbs. occasionally and 50 lbs. frequently. Work may include exposure to extreme weather, hazardous materials, and loud environments. The position may require work on weekends, nights, holidays, and emergency calls.

This is a safety-sensitive position subject to drug testing.