School Grounds Technician - Full-Time, Outdoor Role

Southeast Polk Community School District; Pleasant Hill (IA); On-site; USD 35,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

Southeast Polk Community School District is seeking a Grounds position to maintain district grounds, athletic fields, and outdoor spaces. Shift is 7:00 am to 3:30 pm, Monday–Friday, with schedule variations by season and activities.

The role requires a High School Diploma or equivalent and a valid Class B CDL with airbrake endorsement, or ability to obtain within 90 days. Duties include operating snow plows, tractors, mowers, and other grounds equipment, plus routine maintenance and safety

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or equivalent.
• Valid Class B CDL with airbrake endorsement, or ability to obtain within 90 days of hire.
• Ability to operate, or learn to operate, and maintain grounds and snow removal equipment.
• Basic preventive maintenance skills for small engines, power equipment, and vehicles.
• Ability to read and follow work orders, safety instructions, and equipment manuals.
• Ability to complete basic mathematical calculations to measure materials, distances, and quantities.
• Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team to complete assigned work safely and efficiently.
• Ability to recognize and address potential safety or maintenance issues.
• Must be dependable, punctual, and able to work outdoors in varying weather conditions, including extreme heat and cold.
• Commitment to maintaining a safe, clean, and organized work environment.
• Maintain all licenses and certifications required for assigned duties.

Responsibilities

• Perform routine and seasonal grounds maintenance, including mowing, trimming, edging, seeding, fertilizing, watering, aerating, and weed control.
• Maintain landscaped areas, trees, shrubs, and flower beds through pruning, mulching, and replacement planting.
• Operate and maintain equipment such as mowers, snow plows, skid‑steers, tractors, trimmers, blowers, and related attachments.
• Assist with snow and ice removal by operating plows, spreading salt or ice melt, and performing manual shoveling as needed.
• Prepare and maintain athletic fields, playgrounds, and outdoor activity areas for school and community use.
• Perform minor repairs and preventive maintenance on vehicles and grounds equipment.
• Inspect assigned areas regularly to identify hazards or maintenance needs and report them promptly.
• Assist with setup and takedown for special events as directed.
• Participate in the district's on-call rotation for after-hours maintenance response, typically up to two weeks per year, and respond promptly to emergency calls when assigned.
• Substitute for building‑based custodial absences, as directed.
• Maintain accurate records of work performed, materials used, and equipment maintenance.
• Follow district safety protocols, including use of PPE and safe chemical handling.
• Attend required training and staff meetings.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Skills

CDL license

Grounds equipment operation

Safety compliance

Teamwork

Reading work orders

Math calculations

Communication

Preventive maintenance

Weather resilience

Documentation

Education

High School Diploma or equivalent

Tools

CDL Class B with airbrake endorsement

Snow plows

Skid‑steers

Tractors

Mowers

Blowers

Job description

Southeast Polk Community School District is seeking a Grounds position to maintain district grounds, athletic fields, and outdoor spaces. Shift is 7:00 am to 3:30 pm, Monday–Friday, with schedule variations by season and activities.

The role requires a High School Diploma or equivalent and a valid Class B CDL with airbrake endorsement, or ability to obtain within 90 days. Duties include operating snow plows, tractors, mowers, and other grounds equipment, plus routine maintenance and safety