Lead Groundskeeper — Campus Maintenance & Safety Lead

Perkins & Will; Watertown (SD); On-site; USD 32,000 - 46,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical insurance

Dental insurance

Vision insurance

HRA

FSAs

Life Insurance

Long-Term Disability

401(k) match

Tuition reimbursement

Paid time off

Employee recognition

EAP

Pre-tax transit passes

Job summary

Perkins – Lead Groundsperson needed to supervise grounds maintenance for the 38-acre campus and 12 off-campus properties. You will lead from the front, manage a team, and coordinate with contractors to ensure safe, attractive grounds.

You will operate and maintain equipment, oversee winter operations, and train staff on safety and procedures while building strong vendor relationships and ensuring high-quality work.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED required.
• 5+ years grounds maintenance experience in multi-property environments.
• Expertise in horticulture, lawn care, drainage, hardscaping, and winter operations.
• Strong project and vendor management skills.
• Valid Driver's License and Hoisting License required.

Responsibilities

• Lead and work alongside an Assistant Groundskeeper to foster a team-first environment.
• Oversee external contractors for mowing, mulching, tree care, hardscaping, drainage, and seasonal projects.
• Conduct regular property walk-throughs to spot maintenance needs and implement cost-effective improvements.
• Safely operate, inspect, and perform minor maintenance on machinery (skid steers, excavators, loaders).
• Train staff and contractors on safety protocols, PPE, and campus interactions.
• Lead winter snow and ice management, including emergency response and extended schedules when needed.

Skills

Leadership

Team management

Safety training

Vendor management

Equipment operation

Communication

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Valid Driver's License

Valid Hoisting License

Tools

Skid Steer

Excavator

Loader

Job description

Perkins – Lead Groundsperson needed to supervise grounds maintenance for the 38-acre campus and 12 off-campus properties. You will lead from the front, manage a team, and coordinate with contractors to ensure safe, attractive grounds.

You will operate and maintain equipment, oversee winter operations, and train staff on safety and procedures while building strong vendor relationships and ensuring high-quality work.