Lead Groundskeeper & Landscape Team Lead

Northwestern University; Evanston (IL); On-site; USD 53,000 - 76,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health, dental, vision insurance

Tuition benefits for employee and dep.

Paid vacation and holidays

Job summary

Northwestern University in Evanston/Chicago campuses seeks a Lead Gardener to support landscape maintenance, renovations, and shop operations. The role requires supervising staff, coordinating with contractors, and ensuring safety and University standards across grounds and Auto Shop tasks.

The position involves seasonal duties, equipment operation, and potential evening/weekend coverage to address campus needs. Strong supervisory and horticultural knowledge are essential for success.

Qualifications

• Five or more years of professional landscape or grounds maintenance experience.
• Minimum two years supervisory experience in planning, directing, and coordinating landscape maintenance activities.
• Valid Illinois Pesticide Operator License.
• Valid Commercial Drivers License Class B.
• High School diploma or equivalent.
• Member of Local 681 or eligible to join after probation.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate tasks for shop personnel and contractors to meet campus missions and budgets.
• Perform seasonal landscape activities on both campuses including flower bed and turf maintenance, shrub plantings, and weed control.
• Operate landscape equipment and drive University vehicles as needed.
• Oversee shop performance and budget alignment; develop standard procedures and supervise staff.

Skills

Leadership

Landscape knowledge

Team coordination

Safety compliance

Education

Illinois Pesticide Operator License

Commercial Drivers License Class B

High School diploma

Local 681 membership requirement

Associate's or Bachelor's in horticulture

Job description

Northwestern University in Evanston/Chicago campuses seeks a Lead Gardener to support landscape maintenance, renovations, and shop operations. The role requires supervising staff, coordinating with contractors, and ensuring safety and University standards across grounds and Auto Shop tasks.

The position involves seasonal duties, equipment operation, and potential evening/weekend coverage to address campus needs. Strong supervisory and horticultural knowledge are essential for success.