Code
3405
PCLS
C7015
Pay Grade
122
Exempt
Yes
ORP
No
EEO Code
7
Title
Grounds Maintenance Superintendent
Description

Performs technical supervisory and managerial duties in directing university landscaping, grounds, and athletic fields maintenance activities. Responsible for general beautification of building exteriors and grounds. Plans, directs, participates in, and coordinates semi-skilled work in the care and culture of turf, trees, plants, flowers, and the maintenance of grounds. Develops and implements landscaping plans, selection and application of fertilizers, culture of plants, hedges, grass, and trees. Manages irrigation systems, irrigation repairs, and water conservation. Supervises grounds maintenance employees to maintain a cohesive team capable of producing high quality work. This position also serves as the Facilities Services representative for the yearly Burns Fantasy of Lights holiday display on the east side of the Hardin Administration building. Reports to the Associate Vice President for Facilities Services.

Examples

Supervises, administers, and executes an efficient program of grounds maintenance. Initiates projects to ensure stewardship of landscape and natural resources. Develops and directs an effective working schedule for forepersons and grounds personnel. Ensures that grounds employees receive ongoing training in job skill development and safety. Manages grounds personnel to include hiring, performance reviews, and disciplinary actions. Implements scheduling of work including tree surgery, the use of chemicals, fertilizers, and pesticides. Oversees budget function related to grounds maintenance. Responsible for purchasing all plants, shrubs, trees, fertilizers, chemicals, and ground maintenance equipment. Reviews and delegates special assignment requests from various university departments. Ensures compliance with regulations applicable to landscape irrigation and water usage. As the Fantasy of Lights Facilities Services’ representative, the Superintendent organizes and oversees repairs to the 60+ displays throughout the year, installation of the displays and Christmas trees on the east Hardin lawn starting in October ever year, placement of the displays back in the university’s warehouse in January, and maintenance of the displays while they are in use during November and December. Performs other duties as assigned.

Physical Condition

Moderate physical activity with occasional lifting of objects weighing over fifty pounds.

Experience

At least five year's experience in grounds maintenance with a minimum of five year's supervisory experience involving labor and groundskeeping crews, including team-building, safety, and training. Should have considerable experience in horticulture and grounds maintenance work, including irrigation systems and athletic turf management.  

Knowledge

Thorough and extensive knowledge of techniques relevant to grounds maintenance work including crew organization and team management. Knowledge of horticulture and plants adapted to the Wichita Falls area. Extensive knowledge of irrigation systems installation and repair as well as water conservation techniques. Knowledge of tools, equipment, power vehicles, materials, methods, practices, and techniques used in general grounds and athletic fields maintenance. Knowledge of greenhouse operations for the propagation of plants. Knowledge and ability to plan, organize, direct, and maintain an effective grounds maintenance program. Should be able to read and understand blue prints. Working knowledge of Microsoft Outlook, Word, and Excel to perform work analysis, budget functions, and communications.

Education

Requires graduation from high school. Should have completed extensive courses in horticulture, irrigation, and landscape techniques, or have relevant job experience.

Additional Requirements

Ability to analyze and solve problems. Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing. Ability to effectively and efficiently supervise personnel to motivate and maintain a cohesive team work environment. Ability to maintain effective working relationships with subordinates, supervisors, and customers. * TDA Chemical Applicator's License or ability to obtain license, preferred. *Requires employment physical exam. * Must be available some nights and weekends. *Must periodically serve on a standby or on-call basis.

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 11-08-2023