Groundskeeper

(Formerly: Groundsman I, II)

NATURE AND SCOPE OF WORK

A Groundskeeper performs a variety of manual tasks of a semi-skilled nature, which includes operating power mowers, chain saws, grass trimmers, etc., and the operation of trucks to 7200 Kilograms G.V.W. A Grounds Keeper may direct the activities of a small crew carrying out routine work such as grounds clean-up, mowing lawns, cleaning brush, pruning shrubs and trees, and fertilizing.

Employees in this classification will, at entry level, have had experience in a labouring position, have operated power mowers, weed eaters, etc.. Although the operation of vehicles and equipment will not constitute a majority of a Groundskeepers duties, employees at entry level will be able to operate trucks of up to 7200 kg GVW and self propelled mowers of up to 1820 kg GVW.

Within one (1) year of entering this classification an employee will have acquired a pesticide applicators certificate, and will be able to direct small crews in carrying out routine work such as mowing, clearing of brush, clearing of field drains, pruning of shrubs and trees, fertilizing etc.

Within two (2) years of entering this classification an employee will have successfully completed at least five (5) approved courses in subjects related to grounds work. (These courses need not carry diploma credits and may include a course leading to a pesticide applicators certificate.) At the two year level, an employee will be capable of laying out beautification work from plans and may occasionally operate heavy self-propelled mowers, and trucks if qualified to do so.

Initially, employees in this classification perform most of their work under the supervision of a more experienced Groundskeeper I or II. As the employee gains experience, however, less direct supervision is given and work is only periodically reviewed by a supervisor.

A Groundskeeper II is capable of and performs the work of a Groundskeeper I; but also carries out more skilled tasks such as layout of jobs, preparation of lists of required materials etc., assignment of work to and training of subordinates, ensuring that the work of crews supervised is carried out effectively, and the like.

An employee in this classification, in relation to escalated experience over a two year period, may perform such tasks as job layout, routine inspections, record keeping, preparation of materials and equipment lists, worker training, providing technical direction to other workers and monitoring the quality of work performed.

A Grounds Keeper reports to a Foreman and Management.

TYPICAL RESPONSIBILITIES

Maintains flower beds, digs ditches and post holes, mows lawns, etc.

Uses a variety of hand and power tools.

Operates and cleans equipment related to work.

Plants and maintains various planted areas.

Picks rocks and litter, rakes, trims grass, etc., to maintain school grounds according to District standards.

Prunes shrubs and trees.

Installs, maintains, inspects and repairs drainage systems.

Assists in the layout and construction of planted areas, playing fields, drainage systems, etc.

Lays out, installs, repairs, winterizes and maintains underground sprinkler systems and associated timer controls.

Sites fences, curbs, sidewalks, driveways, etc.

Completes and prepares sketches and reports and maintains records related to work assignments.

Lays out and marks lines on playing fields.

Applies pesticides and herbicides, as required.

Fertilizes and maintains lawns, shrubs and planted areas.

May direct the activities of employees engaged in related work.

Drives a District vehicle to and from job sites.

May be required to perform the duties specified in lower classifications.

Performs related duties, as required.

JOB REQUIREMENTS

KNOWLEDGE, ABILITIES AND SKILLS

Knowledge of tools, equipment, materials, techniques, etc. used in grounds programs at entry. Knowledge, ability and skill must develop as necessary to meet the two-year requirements of this class specification.

Knowledge of drainage systems, soil preparation and types of materials used in the grounds programs.

Knowledge of shrubs, trees, grasses, plants, etc. used by the District.

Mechanical knowledge to inspect equipment used, to recognize operating and potential operating problems and to have equipment serviced and repaired, as necessary.

Ability to assign, layout, coordinate, direct and organize work of assigned staff.

Ability to communicate effectively in English and the ability to understand, carry out, and communicate written and oral instructions.

Skills in the operation and maintenance of grounds equipment.

Sufficient strength, stamina and coordination to perform required tasks in all weather conditions.                         

Ability to prepare, read and interpret drawings and sketches related to work assignments.

Knowledge of WHMIS, WCB occupational health and safety regulations and District safe work practices, policies and procedures to perform work requirements within the area of responsibility.

Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with District staff and others.

Ability to successfully complete courses in subjects related to grounds work such as:

Basic Turf Management

Commercial Pruning

Landscaping

General Gardening

Knowledge and skill must develop as necessary to meet one (1) and two (2) year requirements of the classifications.

TRAINING AND EXPERIENCE

Less than grade 12, plus some previous experience in a labouring capacity where grounds tools, techniques and equipment were employed.

LICENCES, CERTIFICATES AND REGISTRATIONS

Valid Class 5 B.C. Driver's Licence.

Valid Pesticide Applicator licence (Landscape category) by end of first year on the job.