Head groundskeeper

• University of Valley Forge
• University of Valley Forge Careers
• Head Groundskeeper
  
  

Head Groundskeeper

Job Title: Groundskeeper

Department: Facilities

Position Type: Full- (40 hours per week)

Reports to: Maintenance Foreman

Position Overview

The Head Groundskeeper at the University of Valley Forge is responsible for facilitating the mission of the University of Valley Forge by providing responsible leadership for the care, maintenance, and improvement of the grounds and outdoor spaces of all university-owned property. This position is responsible for ensuring that the campus grounds remain clean, safe, healthy, and visually appealing for students, staff, faculty, and visitors. The Head Groundskeeper may oversee a team of part-time and student-worker staff.

This position requires the ability to plan (short and long-term), select, train, develop, and manage a team, and perform a wide range of groundskeeping planning, preparation, and tasks. The Head Groundskeeper reports to the Maintenance Foreman and supports the maintenance and housekeeping teams.

Key Responsibilities

• Mission of the University of Valley Forge
• Fully support the mission of the University of Valley Forge.
• Model the values of the University: Jesus is our Center, Students are our Focus, Progress is our Expectation, Excellence is our Pursuit, Teamwork is our Spirit, Servant Leadership is our Identity, and Community is our Calling.
• Leadership and Planning
• Work collaboratively with the Maintenance Foreman.
• Create an annual groundskeeping plan, with monthly, weekly, and daily tasks.
• Plan for the seasonal care of grounds and outdoor spaces.
• Proactively identify and address outdoor needs.
• Work with the Facilities Coordinator to plan and make purchases.
• Select, train, develop, and manage a team of part-time groundskeepers that supports the mission and values of the university.
• Efficiently and proactively manage individual and teamwork.
• Lawn Maintenance & Landscaping
• Mow lawns, trim edges, and maintain flower beds, shrubs, and trees to ensure a neat, clean, and welcoming environment.
• Perform seasonal landscaping duties, including planting and pruning.
• Care for and perform maintenance as needed on equipment.
• Cleaning & Trash Removal
• Pick up trash and debris across the entire campus and surrounding areas, ensuring a clean environment for the university community.
• Ensure waste and recycling bins are emptied and properly maintained.
• Leaf Blowing & Seasonal Yardwork
• Use leaf blowers to clear leaves and debris from sidewalks, parking lots, and pathways.
• Assist with seasonal tasks such as snow removal, salting, and sanding of walkways and driveways during the winter months.
• Support for Maintenance & Housekeeping Teams
• Assist the maintenance team with general upkeep and repairs around the campus as needed.
• Provide support to the housekeeping team by ensuring outdoor areas are kept clean and presentable.
• Assistance with Special Events
• Support event setups, including preparation for campus events.
• Assist in outdoor venue setup and cleanup for university events and gatherings.
• Safety and Compliance
• Ensure all groundskeeping activities are performed in accordance with safety regulations and university policies.
• Maintain accurate records of groundskeeping plans, files, and work accomplished if requested.
• Communication and Collaboration
• Work collaboratively with other maintenance staff, housekeeping staff, administrative personnel, and residence life staff to coordinate groundskeeping efforts.
• Communicate effectively with university departments groundskeeping project status and timelines.
• Other
• The Head Groundskeeper may be requested to perform other duties, such as assisting with maintenance or housekeeping when needed by the university.
• Head Groundskeeper will be required to attend departmental and occasional all-university meetings.
  
  

Skills and Knowledge

• A valid driver's license and able to be approved to drive university vehicles.
• Working knowledge of tools and equipment used in groundskeeping tasks.
• General knowledge of landscaping, plant/tree/lawn care and maintenance, and long-term groundskeeping plan development.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Ability to follow written and oral instructions.
  
  

Work Environment

Work primarily outdoors, in temperatures ranging from very cold to very hot. Physical activity is required for the majority of the workday, including lifting, bending, carrying, moving, and operating equipment. Some indoor work is required. Driving university vehicles on or off campus is required. Occasional weekends and evenings are required when on call or when addressing emergencies.

Spiritual Requirements

All employees must be openly committed followers of Christ and sign the UVF Community Covenant.

Qualifications And Abilities

• Ability to respond to occasional emergency grounds needs outside of regular hours.
• Positive, proactive attitude toward problem solving and ability to look at challenges creatively.
• Responsible, self-starter able to prioritize work and manage time with minimal supervision.
• Possess a teachable, humble, good attitude and a desire to be part of a team committed to excellence.
• A desire to grow personally, spiritually, and professionally, with an aptitude and interest in fulfilling the responsibilities outlined.
  
  

Pay is commensurate with experience and ability.

The University

The University of Valley Forge (UVF) is an accredited Christian university of the Arts, Sciences, and Professions located on a beautiful 100+ acre campus in Phoenixville, Pennsylvania. With 52 undergraduate majors, eight graduate programs, and dozens of credentialed and dedicated professors, UVF is committed to the mission to prepare individuals for a life of service and leadership in the church and the world.

The University hereby affirms its commitment to equal employment opportunity for all qualified persons without regard to race, color, national origin, gender, disability, age, genetic information, or status as a disabled veteran.

To be considered for this position, please email your resume to

University of Valley Forge

Human Resources

Email: [email protected]