Grounds Maintenance Supervisor Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In today’s green-conscious society, the spotlight on Grounds Maintenance Supervisors has never been more significant.

As urbanization progresses, the demand for skilled professionals who can manage, maintain, and protect our green spaces intensifies.

But let’s dig beneath the surface: What’s truly expected from a Grounds Maintenance Supervisor?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker striving to understand the core of this role,
• A hiring manager shaping the perfect candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the intricate operations of grounds maintenance,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable Grounds Maintenance Supervisor job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Grounds Maintenance Supervisor Duties and Responsibilities

Grounds Maintenance Supervisors oversee the upkeep and enhancement of landscapes, including lawns, gardens, trees, shrubs, and flowers in a variety of settings such as parks, campuses, and personal properties.

They manage a team of groundskeepers and coordinate their activities to ensure the outdoor spaces are well-maintained and visually pleasing.

Their main duties and responsibilities include:

• Supervising, scheduling, and coordinating the work of grounds maintenance staff
• Inspecting the landscape and park facilities to determine the maintenance needs
• Ensuring that safety standards are maintained in all operational areas
• Developing and implementing maintenance procedures and schedules
• Training staff in groundskeeping duties and the use of equipment and tools
• Controlling pests, disease, and weeds to maintain healthy green spaces
• Coordinating the seasonal care of lawns, trees, shrubs, and flowers
• Managing the budget for groundskeeping operations, including purchasing equipment and supplies
• Engaging in and overseeing tasks such as mowing, trimming, planting, watering, fertilizing, digging, and raking
• Maintaining records of work activities and preparing reports
• Ensuring the proper maintenance and repair of groundskeeping equipment

 

Grounds Maintenance Supervisor Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a skilled and reliable Grounds Maintenance Supervisor to oversee our property’s landscaping and maintain our grounds.

Your duties will include supervising staff, ensuring the health and appearance of plants and landscaping, and performing various maintenance tasks to keep the grounds clean and safe.

The ideal candidate is a hands-on individual who is efficient, organized, and has experience with landscaping and grounds maintenance.

 

Responsibilities

• Supervise groundskeepers, gardeners, and other grounds maintenance staff
• Plan and execute landscaping operations
• Inspect grounds, plants, and trees to ascertain needs and apply appropriate care
• Ensure the cleanliness and maintenance of all equipment
• Monitor and maintain the health of plants and grass
• Ensure safety protocols are followed by all staff
• Perform regular maintenance and minor repairs on the lawn care equipment and tools
• Monitor budget and track expenditures
• Work with HR to hire grounds staff as needed
• Train new hires on the proper use of equipment and routine tasks

 

Qualifications

• Proven work experience as a Grounds Maintenance Supervisor or similar role
• Knowledge of landscaping and grounds maintenance
• Ability to operate and maintain landscaping equipment
• Knowledge of horticulture and pest management
• Strong supervisory and leadership skills
• Excellent problem-solving abilities
• High school diploma or equivalent; degree in landscaping or horticulture a plus
• Valid driver’s license

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Continuing education opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Grounds Maintenance Supervisor
• Work Environment: Primarily outdoors, in all weather conditions. Physical demands include lifting and carrying heavy objects, bending, kneeling, and walking for extended periods.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Property Manager or Facilities Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $45,000 minimum to $65,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Grounds Maintenance Supervisor Do?

A Grounds Maintenance Supervisor is responsible for overseeing and coordinating the work of grounds maintenance workers who ensure that the landscapes of places like parks, businesses, and schools are clean, healthy, and attractive.

They often handle tasks such as planning and scheduling maintenance tasks, hiring and training new employees, and inspecting the work of groundskeepers to ensure it meets quality standards.

They may also be involved in the practical aspects of maintenance, such as mowing lawns, trimming hedges, planting flowers, and removing snow or debris.

Grounds Maintenance Supervisors are also responsible for equipment management, which may involve selecting, purchasing, and maintaining tools and machinery used in groundskeeping tasks.

In addition, they may be responsible for budgeting, safety procedures, and ensuring that work complies with local rules and regulations.

Often, they are the point of contact for complaints or requests related to the grounds they supervise, and they need to respond to these in a timely and satisfactory manner.

 

Grounds Maintenance Supervisor Qualifications and Skills

A Grounds Maintenance Supervisor should possess a range of skills and qualifications, including:

• Strong knowledge of horticulture, landscaping, and grounds maintenance techniques to create and maintain aesthetically pleasing and healthy landscapes.
• Supervisory skills to manage, train, and coordinate a team of groundskeepers or maintenance staff effectively.
• Physical stamina and strength to engage in strenuous outdoor work including lifting heavy objects, climbing, bending, and walking for extended periods.
• Problem-solving skills to identify and address issues related to landscape maintenance, irrigation systems, and other related equipment.
• Excellent communication skills to interact effectively with team members, other employees, and external vendors or contractors.
• Ability to operate and maintain a variety of power and hand tools, machinery, and groundskeeping equipment.
• Organizational skills to schedule regular maintenance activities, prioritize tasks, and manage supplies inventory.
• Attention to detail to ensure all areas of the grounds are maintained to the highest possible standards.
• Knowledge of safety regulations and procedures related to groundskeeping to ensure a safe working environment.

 

Grounds Maintenance Supervisor Experience Requirements

To qualify for the role of a Grounds Maintenance Supervisor, candidates typically must have a minimum of 2 to 3 years of experience in landscape or grounds maintenance.

This experience often comes from entry-level positions such as Groundskeeper, Landscape Technician, or similar roles, where they acquire practical hands-on skills in maintaining lawns, gardens, and other green spaces.

In addition to this hands-on experience, at least 1 year of supervisory experience is often required.

This experience could be gained in any role where the candidate was responsible for managing a team, overseeing work schedules, ensuring safety compliance, and managing resources.

Candidates with more than 5 years of experience in grounds maintenance and supervision are often considered for senior-level positions.

These professionals typically have a deep understanding of horticulture, pest management, irrigation systems, and landscape design.

They may also have experience with more complex tasks, such as managing large-scale landscaping projects, budgeting, and procurement.

Furthermore, some roles may require certifications such as Certified Grounds Manager (CGM) or Certified Grounds Technician (CGT), which validate a candidate’s expertise in grounds maintenance and supervision.

These certifications can be obtained through professional associations and typically require both work experience and the completion of an exam.

 

Grounds Maintenance Supervisor Education and Training Requirements

Grounds Maintenance Supervisors typically require a high school diploma or equivalent, although an associate’s degree or certification in a related field such as horticulture, landscape design or groundskeeping is advantageous.

The role requires knowledge and practical experience of landscape maintenance, gardening, and equipment operation.

Hence, several years of related work experience, often at least five, is usually necessary.

There is also a need for a solid understanding of plant care, pest control, and irrigation systems.

Some positions may require knowledge of specific types of flora, depending upon the nature of the grounds being supervised.

Most states require Grounds Maintenance Supervisors to hold a pesticide applicator’s license if they apply pesticides and fertilizers.

The criteria for this license vary by state, but generally require passing an exam after completing a state-approved training course.

Although not mandatory, certifications from professional organizations, such as the Professional Grounds Management Society, can enhance job prospects and demonstrate a commitment to the profession.

Supervisory roles also require strong communication and leadership skills.

Therefore, courses in management or business administration could be beneficial.

Additionally, due to the physical nature of the work, a good level of physical fitness is often required.

 

Grounds Maintenance Supervisor Salary Expectations

A Grounds Maintenance Supervisor earns an average salary of $48,980 (USD) per year.

The actual salary can fluctuate based on factors such as experience, skills, the size of the area being supervised, and the geographical location.

 

Grounds Maintenance Supervisor Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Grounds Maintenance Supervisor need?

Grounds Maintenance Supervisors need strong leadership skills to manage a team of workers effectively.

They should have good knowledge of horticulture and landscaping, along with practical skills like operating landscaping equipment.

Problem-solving, communication, and time management skills are also crucial in this role to ensure tasks are completed on time and any issues are resolved promptly.

 

Do Grounds Maintenance Supervisors need a degree?

Although a degree isn’t strictly necessary for this role, a diploma or degree in horticulture, landscape design, or a related field can be beneficial.

Other relevant qualifications include certifications in the use of certain equipment or chemicals.

However, practical experience in grounds maintenance and management is often more important than formal education.

 

What should you look for in a Grounds Maintenance Supervisor resume?

In a Grounds Maintenance Supervisor’s resume, look for extensive experience in grounds maintenance and landscaping.

Check for roles where they’ve demonstrated leadership or management skills.

Certifications in relevant areas, such as pesticide application or equipment operation, are also a plus.

It’s equally important to note any experience with budgeting and scheduling, as these tasks often fall to the supervisor.

 

What qualities make a good Grounds Maintenance Supervisor?

A good Grounds Maintenance Supervisor is a skilled leader who can direct a team efficiently.

They have a strong understanding of horticulture and can make knowledgeable decisions about plant care and landscape design.

They are detail-oriented, ensuring all tasks are completed to a high standard, and have excellent problem-solving skills to address any issues that arise.

 

What are the daily duties of a Grounds Maintenance Supervisor?

On a typical day, a Grounds Maintenance Supervisor may plan and assign work to their team, inspect completed tasks to ensure they meet the required standard, and order supplies as needed.

They may also be involved in hiring and training new team members, managing budgets, and liaising with clients or senior management.

In addition, they’ll likely spend some of their time on practical tasks, such as operating equipment or performing maintenance tasks.

 

Conclusion

And there we have it.

Today, we’ve delved into the nuts and bolts of what it means to be a grounds maintenance supervisor.

Surprised?

It’s not just about mowing the lawns.

It’s about nurturing the environment, one plant at a time.

With our comprehensive grounds maintenance supervisor job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to take the next step.

But why stop at readiness?

Dive further with our job description generator. It’s your go-to tool for creating razor-sharp job listings or fine-tuning your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every plant cared for is a part of the bigger landscape.

Let’s cultivate that landscape. Together.

How to Become a Grounds Maintenance Supervisor (Complete Guide)

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