Grounds Keeper at Hillsdale College

Position Title: Grounds Keeper

Posting Number: S273P

Department: Maintenance

Position Type: Staff

Job Description: Job Summary
Maintenance of Hillsdale College's grounds, which include campus refuse removal, snow removal, turf/tree/ornamental care, furniture/equipment moves, College function set-ups, heavy labor, and other grounds keeping tasks to maintain a safe and attractive environment.
Some overtime is required and vacation approval may be limited during peak activity periods.

Essential Job Functions

1. Examine and police the College grounds on a routine basis.
2. Mow grass and trim with power mowers and other power tools (seasonal).
3. Weed flowerbeds, around shrubs and trees, and as directed (seasonal).
4. Remove dead branches, prune, and maintain trees. Inspect trees for damage from pests and disease.
5. Fertilize turf and ornamentals as directed (seasonal).
6. Remove snow and ice using power snow broom/blowers, chemical ice melts, truck mounted plows, shovels and /or ice scrapers (seasonal).
7. Spray herbicides to maintain weed free landscape.
8. Assist with removal and disposal of trash and debris (including campus refuse disposal).
9. Water turf and ornamentals using mobile water tank and irrigation.
10. Rake leaves and grass.
11. Move furniture and set-up offices and academic spaces as requested. This moving is sometimes done by hand.
12. Move and set-up tables and chairs for College functions as requested.
13. Erect scaffolding, set-up ladder, or work from high range.
14. Assist maintenance personnel or others within the Physical Plant Department at the direction of the Supervisor of Grounds.
15. Perform routine maintenance on College equipment and tools.
16. Seek training to enhance or learn new skills.
17. Remain accessible and available in the event of emergencies, or when needed to meet the ongoing mission of the College.
18. Maintain an acceptable attendance record, be punctual, and meet deadlines.
19. Report accidents on the job promptly.
20. Adhere to all safety practices and work practices established by the Physical Plant.

Required Qualifications: Qualifications
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty mentioned satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.

Education and Experience
Position requires a high school diploma or an equivalent combination of education and experience, which fulfills the needs of the College.

Other Skills:

1. Ability to operate hand tools and vehicles common to the trade.
2. Ability to safely work with mild chemicals common to the trade, in a manner which protects the individual and co-workers in the immediate work area as well as the environment.
3. Must possess a commercial pesticide license at hire or within six months of hire.
4. (Will be assisted by College personnel to obtain the license.)
5. Ability to maintain and schedule irrigation.
6. Ability to effectively communicate verbally and in writing and to take instruction in either verbal or written form.
7. Participate in daily team meetings.
8. Possess a valid Michigan commercial driver's license.

Physical Demands:

1. Capable of performing strenuous activity.
2. Requires above average physical strength for lifting heavy and bulky items.
3. Ability to climb and work from heights greater than forty (40) feet.
4. Ability to work out of doors in all types of weather.
5. Ability to operate hand tools and vehicles common to the trade.

Open Date: 05/05/2026

Open Until Filled: Yes

Supplemental Questions:

Required fields are indicated with an asterisk ( ).

Documents Needed To Apply (Required Documents & Optional Documents): Required Documents

Optional Documents

1. Resume
2. Cover Letter
3. Letter of Recommendation

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