Code
3403
PCLS
C7005
Pay Grade
109
Exempt
No
ORP
No
EEO Code
7
Title
Grounds Foreperson
Description

Performs skilled supervisory work in the care and culture of plants and flowers, and directs the maintenance of grounds. Work involves the responsibility for planning, laying out, and assigning work under general supervision. Supervises small maintenance crews in plant care, turf maintenance, and general grounds maintenance activities. Installs and repairs irrigation systems. Responsible for overall appearance of the area assigned. Reports to the Grounds Maintenance Superintendent.

Examples

Supervises the planning, laying out, and assigning of work crews. Supervises and participates in grounds work and directs the proper mixing and spraying of herbicides and fungicides. Supervises and participates in the trimming of trees, shrubs, and vines; turf maintenance activities, general grounds maintenance activities and litter control including emptying of trash containers.

Physical Condition

Heavy physical activity. Must be capable of lifting a minimum of 50 pounds. Must be able to work while squatting as well as be able to bend and pull. Must be able to reach approximately 30 inches in all directions.

Experience

Should have at least three years of experience in grounds maintenance or related maintenance activities work. Some supervisory experience with labor, grounds and landscaping crews preferred. Experience working in a team environment.

Knowledge

Knowledge of landscaping and irrigation systems. Considerable knowledge of tools, equipment, materials, methods, and practices related to grounds maintenance. Knowledge of practices and techniques for the proper care of plants, flowers, shrubs, trees, and lawns. Knowledge in the proper use of chemicals for insect as well as weed control. Knowledge of the proper application of different types of fertilizers and of their usage. Knowledge of hazards and safety precautions necessary in general labor and maintenance work. Ability to supervise the work of groundskeepers in a manner conducive to efficient performance of their duties. Knowledge of plant propagation and upkeep of greenhouses, preferred.

Education

High school diploma or equivalent.

Additional Requirements

Requires the ability to work well with diverse populations and maintain positive working relationships with students, faculty, staff, and the community. Must be able to operate tractors, forklifts, mowers, and small machinery and related equipment, as well as perform maintenance and minor mechanical repairs to this equipment. Able to read blueprints for remodeling, installation of irrigation systems and repairs. Demonstrated self-motivated work ethic. Ability to unify subordinates into cohesive work team. * TDA Chemical Applicator's License or ability to obtain license, preferred. *Regular reliable attendance is required. *Requires employment physical exam. *A valid Texas driver's license is required. * Must be available some nights and weekends. Must periodically serve on a standby or on-call basis. *This position is designated as security sensitive (Low) and requires a criminal background check.

Standard Requirements

Requires the ability to maintain positive working relationships with students, faculty, staff, and the community. Must adhere to University’s core values: People-Centered, Community, Integrity, Visionary, and Connections, per the MSU Texas Values Journey. Personal cell phone usage may be required to complete position duties, including multi-function authentication requirements. Regular reliable attendance is required.

This position is designated as security sensitive (Mod) and requires a criminal background check. Position is designated as a Responsible Employee as outlined by Title IX. May serve as Campus Security Authority as outlined by the Clery Act.

Last Updated 10-13-2023