Groundskeeper (Part-time, OPS) (Panama City Campus)

Florida State University; Tallahassee (FL); On-site; USD 17,000 - 22,000; Part time

Job summary

Florida State University Panama City is seeking a Groundskeeper (Part-time, OPS) to maintain campus grounds, irrigation, and landscape beautification. The role reports to the PCC Finance and Administration Department and is located on-site in Panama City, FL.

The ideal candidate will assist in landscaping projects and ensure safe operation of grounds equipment. Mandatory ninth grade completion and a valid Florida or Georgia driver’s license (or ability to obtain) are required.

Qualifications

• Completion of ninth grade is required.
• A valid State of Florida or Georgia Driver’s License or ability to obtain prior to hire.

Responsibilities

• Maintain campus grounds and landscapes, including mowing, edging, trimming trees and shrubs, planting and care of flowers and trees.
• Assist with planning and enhancement of landscaping projects under the Program Manager.
• Maintain and optimize irrigation systems and contribute to water conservation measures.

Skills

OSHA awareness

Education

Completion of ninth grade

Florida/Georgia Driver’s License

Job description

Job Title: Groundskeeper (Part-time, OPS) (Panama City Campus)

Location: Panama City, FL

Regular/Temporary: Temporary

Full/Part Time: Part-time

Job ID: 63256

Department

PCC Finance and Administration Department

Florida State University is one of the nation’s top public universities, and FSU Panama City amplifies the university’s efforts to preserve, expand, and disseminate knowledge in the sciences, technology, arts, humanities, and human services professions. FSU Panama City is located 100 miles west of Tallahassee on the beautiful North St. Andrews Bay is only three miles from the beaches of the Emerald Coast. FSU PC currently houses 20 bachelor's programs, 9 master's programs, and 1 doctoral program, and boasts a small faculty-to-student ratio, which gives students a more personalized academic experience. Please visit https://pc.fsu.edu/promise for information about our FSU PC Promise to students and https://pc.fsu.edu/ for more information about our campus. FSU Panama City also recently opened a brand new, residential housing complex on campus and right on the water. This new apartment-style complex at FSU PC houses both undergraduate and graduate students. For more information about our on-campus housing, visit https://seminolelandingfsu.com/.

Responsibilities

• Maintain campus grounds and landscapes, including mowing and edging turf, trimming trees and shrubs, planting and caring for flowers, trees, and ornamental plants, and ensuring the overall appearance and health of landscaped areas. Maintain patios, walkways, stairwells, parking lots, and other exterior areas in a clean, safe, and orderly condition. Ensure all manual and powered grounds equipment is properly maintained, operated safely, and kept in good working order, promptly reporting equipment deficiencies or repair needs to the Program Manager.
• Assist with the planning, development, and enhancement of campus landscaping and beautification projects. Under the direction of the Program Manager, implement landscape designs, renovations, and grounds improvement projects, including the installation of new plantings, landscape features, and aesthetic enhancements that support the campus appearance and operational goals.
• Maintain, inspect, troubleshoot, repair, and optimize campus irrigation systems to ensure efficient water distribution and healthy landscape conditions. Evaluate and adjust irrigation coverage, flow rates, water pressure, run times, and seasonal watering schedules based on weather conditions, temperatures, rainfall, and plant growth requirements. Recommend system upgrades, modifications, and expansions to improve performance, water conservation, and coverage. Coordinate and modify irrigation systems as necessary to accommodate campus construction and improvement projects. Utilize diagnostic equipment to diagnose and repair irrigation controllers, timers, solenoids, valves, sensors, wiring, and related system components. Determine and implement appropriate disease, insect, and weed control measures, and develop and administer seasonal fertilization programs for turf, trees, shrubs, and ornamental plantings to promote healthy and attractive campus landscapes.

Qualifications

• Completion of ninth grade
• A valid State of Florida or Georgia Driver’s License or the ability to obtain prior to hire.

Preferred Qualifications

• Knowledge of general safety practices (OSHA awareness)
• OSHA 10 or 30 certification
• Florida Public Pesticide Applicator License
• Florida Public Applicator License with the Ornamental & Turf

Helpful

During the first three months, the OPS groundskeeper will receive structured, hands‑on training to build familiarity with campus systems, tools, and safety procedures. The selected candidate will work closely with their supervisor and department head to:

• Participate in guided training sessions on university equipment, facilities, and standard operating procedures.
• Shadow experienced staff to learn daily workflows and preventative maintenance practices.
• Gain an understanding of departmental safety protocols and compliance requirements.
• Take on progressively more independent assignments with ongoing support and feedback.
• Establish strong working relationships with team members and campus partners.

By the end of the first 90 days, the groundskeeper is expected to be confident in navigating campus facilities, performing routine maintenance tasks, and contributing independently to the department’s work while continuing to develop advanced skills.

Contact Info

Inquiries should be directed to David Gary for more information regarding this position.

University Information

One of the nation's elite research universities, Florida State University preserves, expands, and disseminates knowledge in the sciences, technology, arts, humanities, and professions, while embracing a philosophy of learning strongly rooted in the traditions of the liberal arts and critical thinking. Founded in 1851, Florida State University is the oldest continuous site of higher education in Florida. FSU is a community steeped in tradition that fosters research and encourages creativity. At FSU, there’s the excitement of being part of a vibrant academic and professional community, surrounded by people whose ideas are shaping tomorrow’s news!

Learn more about Florida State University and our campuses

Considerations

This is an OPS/temporary job.

Based on the duties, this position may require completion of a criminal history background check.

This position is located on-site in Panama City, Florida and the anticipated start date is Fall 2026.

Equal Employment Opportunity

FSU is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer.