Grounds Maintenance Worker Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In a world where aesthetics and functionality matter, the demand for grounds maintenance workers is higher than ever.

As our environments evolve, the need for skilled hands who can maintain, enhance, and protect our landscapes and grounds is continually growing.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a grounds maintenance worker?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply interested in the behind-the-scenes of grounds maintenance,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable grounds maintenance worker job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Grounds Maintenance Worker Duties and Responsibilities

Grounds Maintenance Workers are responsible for ensuring that the landscapes of homes, businesses, and parks are attractive, orderly, and healthy.

They maintain the grounds of a property and provide other services such as pest management and landscaping.

Their primary duties and responsibilities include:

• Mowing and trimming lawns, using hand or power mowers
• Applying fertilizers, herbicides, or insecticides onto grass, shrubs, or trees, using hand or automatic sprayers
• Watering lawns, trees, and plants, using portable sprinkler systems or by programming irrigation systems
• Maintaining and repairing tools, equipment, and structures such as fences, gates, or benches, using hand or power tools
• Planting and seeding new lawns, flowers, trees, and shrubs
• Pruning and trimming trees, shrubs, hedges, and grass to provide clearance for sidewalks or to remove damaged sections
• Setting up, preparing and clearing sites for events and functions
• Raking leaves, removing litter and performing composting and aerating duties
• Monitoring and maintaining the health of plants by identifying any pests or diseases and controlling these through the best practice methods available
• Conducting minor repairs and maintenance procedures on equipment utilized in groundskeeping

 

Grounds Maintenance Worker Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are looking for a dedicated Grounds Maintenance Worker to maintain and improve our green spaces, including lawns, gardens, and various landscaping elements.

Grounds Maintenance Worker responsibilities include mowing lawns, pruning shrubs, planting flowers, removing waste, and maintaining the exterior image of the property.

Our ideal candidates have a green thumb and enjoy working outdoors, regardless of the weather conditions.

Ultimately, the role of the Grounds Maintenance Worker is to ensure our green spaces are beautiful, clean, and safe for all to enjoy.

 

Responsibilities

• Perform regular maintenance duties such as mowing lawns, pruning shrubs and trees
• Plant and maintain flower beds, shrubs, and trees
• Ensure outdoor furniture and features are kept clean and in good working order
• Remove and manage the disposal of leaves, rubbish and other waste material
• Manage weed control and pest management processes
• Repair and maintain outdoor structures such as fences, benches, and playground equipment
• Monitor and maintain irrigation systems
• Operate and maintain grounds maintenance equipment
• Observe health and safety regulations during work operations

 

Qualifications

• Proven work experience as a groundskeeper or similar role
• Knowledge of horticultural techniques and the ability to identify various plants and trees
• Familiarity with landscaping design
• Proficiency in using manual and power garden tools
• Basic knowledge of irrigation systems
• Physical fitness and ability to perform strenuous tasks in various weather conditions
• High school diploma or equivalent; a certification in landscape maintenance or horticulture is a plus

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities
• Uniform provided

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Grounds Maintenance Worker
• Work Environment: Outdoor, often physically demanding work in various weather conditions.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Grounds Maintenance Supervisor or Facilities Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $28,000 minimum to $40,000 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 Worker Do?

Grounds Maintenance Workers are primarily responsible for ensuring that landscapes, including gardens, lawns, and other green spaces, are clean, healthy, and attractive.

They mow and edge lawns, rake leaves, water plants, and perform other tasks to ensure the beauty and growth of plants and flowers.

Grounds Maintenance Workers are also responsible for applying pesticides and fertilizers to plants and trees, which requires a strong knowledge of various types of plants and their specific needs.

In addition to maintaining the landscape, these professionals are also often responsible for installing and maintaining outdoor fixtures like walkways, retaining walls, and sprinkler systems.

They may also perform minor repairs to equipment such as lawnmowers, leaf blowers, and other gardening tools.

During winter, Grounds Maintenance Workers may have to remove snow from walkways and clear ice from ponds.

Grounds Maintenance Workers often work for landscaping companies, schools, corporations, or they may be self-employed.

Regardless of their employer, their goal is to maintain a clean, safe, and pleasing environment for people to enjoy.

 

Grounds Maintenance Worker Qualifications and Skills

Grounds Maintenance Workers need a variety of practical skills, physical abilities, and knowledge about plants and outdoor work to maintain and beautify outdoor spaces, including:

• Practical skills such as mowing, pruning, fertilizing, and sprinkling lawns, landscapes, and gardens
• Knowledge about plant diseases and pests, including how to identify and manage them
• Physical strength and stamina to handle heavy equipment and work in various weather conditions
• Attention to detail for tasks like planting flowers, maintaining garden edges, and installing outdoor fixtures
• Communication skills to understand instructions and work effectively in a team
• Problem-solving skills to diagnose and correct issues with plants and landscaping tools
• Ability to manage time and tasks effectively to complete grounds maintenance schedules efficiently
• Safety consciousness to operate power tools and equipment in a safe manner, and to apply chemicals like pesticides and fertilizers safely

 

Grounds Maintenance Worker Experience Requirements

Grounds Maintenance Workers usually start their careers by gaining hands-on experience, either through internships or as part-time or summer jobs in landscaping or related fields.

Some employers may hire entry-level candidates with little to no experience and provide on-the-job training.

Candidates with 1 to 2 years of experience are typically proficient in basic maintenance tasks such as mowing, trimming, planting, and irrigation system management.

They may have also gained exposure to pesticide use and tree care.

Those with 3 to 5 years of experience have likely honed their skills in specialized grounds maintenance tasks such as landscape design, turf management, and hardscape installation.

They may also have experience in operating more complex machinery and tools.

Candidates with more than 5 years of experience often have a solid foundation in all aspects of grounds maintenance.

They may also have leadership experience, supervising teams, and coordinating maintenance projects.

Their experience could make them suitable for roles like Grounds Maintenance Supervisor or Manager.

In addition, a valid driver’s license and a pesticide applicator’s license may also be required for certain grounds maintenance roles.

While formal education isn’t typically required, a diploma or degree in horticulture or a related field can provide valuable knowledge and may be preferred by some employers.

 

Grounds Maintenance Worker Education and Training Requirements

Grounds Maintenance Workers typically require a high school diploma or equivalent.

No specific formal education is typically required for entry-level positions.

However, some employers may prefer candidates who have completed postsecondary education in landscaping or a related field.

For certain roles that involve handling pesticides and fertilizers, a state license might be necessary.

This usually requires passing a test on the safe use and disposal of insecticides, herbicides, and fungicides.

If the job involves tree trimming, workers may need to acquire certification from an organization such as the Tree Care Industry Association or the International Society of Arboriculture.

For advancement in this field, grounds maintenance workers often need a degree in landscape design, horticulture, or a related field.

On-the-job training is common in this field, where workers learn to use the tools and equipment of the trade, including mowers, trimmers, leaf blowers, small tractors, and protective gear.

Ongoing training on safety practices is also essential, especially for workers who use heavy equipment or work in busy urban environments.

Although not required, many Grounds Maintenance Workers pursue advanced courses or apprenticeships to improve their skills and knowledge.

 

Grounds Maintenance Worker Salary Expectations

A Grounds Maintenance Worker earns an average wage of $14.13 (USD) per hour.

The actual income can vary based on factors such as the level of experience, geographical location, and the employing entity.

 

Grounds Maintenance Worker Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Grounds Maintenance Worker need?

Grounds Maintenance Workers need to have physical stamina as they often work in outdoor environments and perform labor-intensive tasks.

They should be familiar with various landscaping tools and equipment.

Knowledge of horticulture can be beneficial to understand the needs of different plants.

They should also have problem-solving skills to assess, diagnose, and fix issues related to irrigation systems or landscaping.

 

Do Grounds Maintenance Workers need any specific qualifications or licenses?

While a specific degree is not necessary, a high school diploma is usually required.

Some Grounds Maintenance Workers may also obtain a certificate or degree in horticulture or a related field.

Licenses may be necessary if they apply pesticides or fertilizers, and these requirements vary by state.

 

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

Look for candidates who have previous experience in landscaping or maintenance work.

Familiarity with various tools and equipment used in grounds maintenance is also essential.

Certification in horticulture or a related field can be a plus.

If the role involves handling pesticides or fertilizers, ensure that the candidate has the necessary licenses.

 

What qualities make a good Grounds Maintenance Worker?

A good Grounds Maintenance Worker is physically fit and able to perform various labor-intensive tasks.

They have an eye for detail which helps them maintain the aesthetic appeal of landscapes.

They are also patient and dedicated as landscape maintenance can be a time-consuming task.

Good Grounds Maintenance Workers are also able to work independently and make decisions related to plant care and maintenance.

 

What are the daily duties of a Grounds Maintenance Worker?

On a typical day, a Grounds Maintenance Worker might mow lawns, trim hedges, plant flowers, or rake leaves.

They may also be responsible for cleaning outdoor facilities, maintaining irrigation systems, or applying fertilizers or pesticides.

Some workers may also perform minor repair work on fences, benches, or other outdoor structures.

The tasks can vary greatly depending on the season and type of property they are maintaining.

 

Conclusion

There you have it.

Today, we’ve dug deep into the practicalities and particulars of being a grounds maintenance worker.

Surprise, surprise?

It’s not just about mowing lawns.

It’s about maintaining and enhancing our landscapes, one blade of grass at a time.

Armed with our comprehensive grounds maintenance worker job description template and real-life examples, you’re equipped to take the next step.

But why stop at the surface?

Delve further with our job description generator. It’s your ticket to precision-crafted job listings or refining your resume to pure perfection.

Keep in mind:

Every blade of grass is a part of the bigger landscape.

Let’s cultivate that future. Together.

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