Groundskeeper (Temporary)

Pacific Lutheran University; Tacoma (WA); Hybrid; USD 42,000 - 52,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Tuition remission

Excellent benefits package

Job summary

Pacific Lutheran University in Tacoma, WA is seeking a Groundskeeper to maintain university grounds, including landscapes, turf, and pathways.

The role involves supervising 1–4 work-study students, performing safety-conscious operations, and supporting athletic events and special activities. Applicants should have 1.5 years of grounds experience, a High School Diploma or GED, a valid driver’s license, and be able to pass background checks.

Qualifications

• One and a half years of grounds maintenance or related experience.
• High School Diploma or GED.
• Valid driver’s license (must have had for at least 2 years).
• Pre-employment background checks, driving abstract, and Driver’s Certification Training required.

Responsibilities

• Perform grounds maintenance tasks using industry-recognized practices.
• Direct and coordinate 1–4 work-study students in safe operation of tools and equipment.
• Pressure wash surfaces.
• Perform minor repairs/tune-ups to hand tools and powered equipment.
• Operate and maintain all equipment per state/federal regulations.
• Support weekend athletic events as needed.
• Assist with special event activities or emergencies.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Skills

Grounds maintenance

Supervising others

Equipment operation

Safety awareness

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Tools

Power tools

Pressure washer

Job description

Below you will find the details for the position including any supplementary documentation and questions you should review before applying for the opening.

Closing Date When a sufficient number of qualified applicants have been identified.

Work Schedule:

Full-Time, Monday-Friday, 6am-2:30pm.
This is a temporary position that will last approximately 1 to 3 months.

General Description:

The Groundskeeper is responsible for inspecting and maintaining University grounds to provide a safe environment for all University property and its users. Clean and maintain landscaped areas, trees, turf, paved surfaces, streams, ponds, and fountains. Reports to the Campus Services Manager and Grounds Supervisor.

Essential Functions and Responsibilities:

• Perform grounds maintenance tasks using industry recognized practices and procedures.
• Direct and coordinate one to four work-study students in the safe operation of all tools and equipment and assigned duties.
• Pressure wash surfaces.
• Perform minor repairs/tune-ups to hand tools and powered hand and riding equipment.
• Operate and maintain all equipment in accordance with state and federal regulations.
• Support weekend Athletic events as needed in season.
• Assist with special event activities or emergency situations as directed.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Knowledge of and commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.
• Knowledge of hazards and safety precautions related to grounds maintenance, landscape construction, pesticide application, and the use/maintenance of power tools and equipment.
• Knowledge of horticultural practices, procedures, and methods.
• Ability to carry out written and verbal instructions in English with minimal supervision.
• Ability to operate hand/power tools, automobiles, tractors, brush chippers, aerators, mowers, etc.
• Ability to work independently, as part of a team, and under pressure.

Required Qualifications:

• One and a half years of grounds maintenance or related experience. Related education may substitute.
• High School Diploma or GED .
• Valid driver’s license (Must have had a valid driver’s license for at least 2 years).
• Finalist applicants must satisfactorily complete pre-employment background checks, driving abstract, and pass PLU’s Driver’s Certification Training.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Knowledge of Irrigation systems.
• Positive attitude and a willingness to learn.

Work Conditions:

• Work outdoors in all weather conditions for extended period of time in environment containing dust, odors, and high level of noise (>85dB).
• Work while bending and stooping for extended periods, as well as from above ground areas such as ladders, aerial platforms and/or scaffolds.

Physical Requirements:

• Safely lift and carry objects, unassisted, weighing up to 50 lbs. approximately 30 times each work shift, exert physical force in excess of 50 to 100 lbs. for 30% of each work shift.
• Safely carry 40 lbs. backpack continuously for two hours each work shift.
• Operate equipment involving dexterous use of both hands and feet simultaneously.

Special Instructions to Applicants:

Other Information:

PLU is a small, private university where caring means more than kindness and consideration — it means a bold commitment to expanding well-being, opportunity, and justice. Because PLU is a community committed to the creation and advancement of knowledge through diversity and inclusion, the university actively recruits a diverse faculty, staff, and student body. PLU is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes applications from members of historically underrepresented and minoritized groups, women, veterans, persons with disabilities, and others who would bring broadly diverse perspectives, experiences, and backgrounds in educational, research or other work activities.
PLU offers an excellent benefits package including tuition remission for employees and their dependents, retirement plan, medical, dental, paid vacation and sick leave, major holidays off (including Christmas/New Year’s break), additional flexible time off, and many other great university benefits. PLU is a qualifying employer under the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program as a 501©(3) tax-exempt organization.
For general application questions or if you need accommodations at any point in the application and/or interview process, please contact the Human Resources Office at 253-535-7185 or [e-mail] .

Supplemental Questions

• * Do you have a High School Diploma or GED?
  • Yes
  • No
• * Do you have a current valid driver's license which you have had for at least 2 years?
  • Yes
  • No
• * Are you 18 years of age or older?
  • Yes
  • No
• * Are you legally eligible to work in the United States on your hire date AND legally authorized to work in the United States for Pacific Lutheran University without sponsorship now and indefinitely into the future?
  • Yes
  • No

12180 Park Ave. S
Tacoma, WA 98447
[phone]
www.plu.edu