Head of Grounds & Landscape Operations

University of California - Santa Barbara; Santa Barbara (CA); On-site; USD 75,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

University of California - Santa Barbara is seeking an experienced Grounds Manager to lead the department's Grounds program. You will oversee 28 FTE staff across campus sites, coordinate projects, and manage a significant annual budget for maintenance and major projects.

Leadership, regulatory experience, and a track record of safety and teamwork are essential. The role interfaces with the HDAE Leadership Team and requires strong planning abilities.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma is required.
• 4–6 years landscaping industry experience.
• 1–3 years experience with regulatory agencies (water districts, municipalities).
• 1–3 years demonstrated leadership and supervisory experience.
• Valid California DPR Qualified Applicator’s License or Certificate Category A, or California Structural Branch 2 license, with CEUs.

Responsibilities

• Oversee Grounds maintenance, project coordination, and budgeting for multiple sites.
• Supervise daily operations, staffing, scheduling, and performance standards.
• Manage procurement, vendor relationships, and TreeKeeper system for trees.
• Lead safety initiatives and ensure compliance with campus safety standards.
• Contribute to long‑range planning and support the HDAE Leadership Team.

Skills

Leadership

Staff supervision

Project coordination

Budgeting

Communication

Safety compliance

Education

High School Diploma

Bachelor’s Degree preferred

Job description

University of California - Santa Barbara is seeking an experienced Grounds Manager to lead the department's Grounds program. You will oversee 28 FTE staff across campus sites, coordinate projects, and manage a significant annual budget for maintenance and major projects.

Leadership, regulatory experience, and a track record of safety and teamwork are essential. The role interfaces with the HDAE Leadership Team and requires strong planning abilities.