LEAD GROUNDS – JOB DESCRIPTION

Reports To:

Grounds/Custodial Manager

Job Goal:

To lead, coordinate, and actively participate in the maintenance and improvement of all district grounds while ensuring high standards of safety, quality, and efficiency. This position is responsible for independently planning and executing daily and seasonal work, keeping the crew productive at all times, and maintaining at a high level the district properties without the need for constant direction. The Lead Grounds employee is expected to take ownership of operations, anticipate needs, and ensure work is completed proactively.

Evaluation:

Annually in accordance with Board policy

Terms of Employment:

260 days. Salary per the OAPSE contracted pay scale agreement

Education and Training:

1. High school diploma or GED required

2. Secondary education or training in horticulture, turf management, or related field preferred

3. Minimum of two (2) years of supervisory or crew leadership experience preferred

4. Experience in school district or municipal grounds maintenance preferred

5. Equivalent combinations of education and experience may be considered

Qualifications:

1. Ability to perform all essential physical job functions

2. Strong working knowledge of grounds maintenance, mowing practices, and seasonal care

3. Proven ability to lead by example while working alongside a crew

4. Ability to plan, prioritize, and adjust work schedules based on weather, field usage, and district needs

5. Effective communication skills, both verbal and written

6. Ability to hold employees accountable while maintaining a positive and productive team environment

7. Strong organizational skills with attention to detail

8. Experience with equipment operation, maintenance, and basic troubleshooting

9. Ability to assist with vendor coordination when needed

10. Valid Ohio Driver’s License with acceptable driving record

11. Demonstrated ability to work independently, take initiative, and make decisions without constant supervision

12. Strong work ethic with the ability to set the pace and standard for the crew

13. Ability to proactively identify work needs and keep staff consistently productive throughout the day

14. Experience mentoring, training, and developing employees in a hands-on environment

Duties and Responsibilities:

Leadership & Crew Management:

1. Lead and work alongside a grounds crew, ensuring a high level of daily productivity

2. Set the pace and standard for work ethic, professionalism, and efficiency

3. Assign, monitor, and adjust daily tasks to ensure all work is completed effectively

4. Keep all crew members actively engaged and on task throughout the workday

5. Train, mentor, and develop staff to improve skill level, efficiency, and accountability

6. Address minor performance concerns and communicate issues to management as needed

7. Foster a team environment focused on accountability, reliability, and consistent performance

Planning & Scheduling:

8. Independently identify, prioritize, and initiate daily and weekly work without the need for constant direction

9. Develop and adjust work schedules based on weather conditions, seasonal priorities, and district needs

10. Maintain continuous workflow by planning ahead and ensuring there is always productive work assigned

11. Anticipate needs related to mowing cycles, athletic schedules, and seasonal changes

12. Coordinate grounds maintenance activities to support athletic events, practices, and school functions

13. Coordinate and assist with event setup and teardown as required

Grounds Maintenance:

14. Perform routine and advanced grounds maintenance including mowing, trimming, edging, and general upkeep

15. Ensure all district properties, including athletic fields and common areas, meet established appearance and safety standards

16. Assist in the maintenance and care of artificial turf fields

Equipment & Inventory Management:

17. Maintain responsibility for all grounds equipment including mowers, tools, and small engines

18. Ensure equipment is properly used, cleaned, and stored by all staff

19. Perform or coordinate routine maintenance and minor repairs to minimize downtime

20. Track and manage inventory of supplies, materials, and parts

21. Submit purchase requests as needed to maintain efficient operations

Communication & Coordination:

22. Provide regular updates to management regarding work progress, equipment status, and potential issues

23. Assist with vendor coordination when management is unavailable

24. Identify and communicate opportunities for improvement, efficiency, or cost savings

Work Standards & Expectations:

25. Maintain at a consistently high level, the appearance of the grounds and facilities.

26. Ensure no unnecessary downtime by proactively assigning and initiating work

27. Take full ownership of assigned responsibilities without reliance on constant direction

28. Demonstrate initiative by identifying problems and addressing them before they escalate

29. Serve as the primary point of leadership in the field when management is not present

Additional Responsibilities:

30. Maintain required records and work logs

31. Assist in identifying and planning special projects

32. Perform other related duties as assigned by management