The primary job duties of the Grounds Supervisor are the supervision of all University groundskeeping crews and directing the planting, pruning, and cultivating of trees, shrubs, and flowers, and the seeding, fertilizing, mowing, and trimming of all University grounds. The Grounds Supervisor oversees the removal weather-generated debris and trash from all University grounds. The Supervisor instructs the Groundskeepers, Auto Shop Mechanic, and Student Workers in the proper use of tools and equipment. Supervises the operations of the Reclaimed Water pond and campus irrigation systems.

Responsible for the effective supervision and administration of the vehicle and equipment repair shop, directing repairs, servicing, cleaning, and licensing of all University owned, leased and/or rented vehicles to include buses, trucks, carts, forklifts, backhoes, lifts, and trailers.

Coordinates activities with other maintenance supervisors. Works under general supervision with moderate latitude for use of initiative and independent judgment.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Ensures that the University grounds are attractive and well-kept by planning work assignments and actively supervising the quality of groundskeeping services
• Assures established standards are achieved by regularly inspecting the work of grounds personnel, directing corrective measures to be taken when necessary and appropriate, and conducting and coordinating the training of groundskeepers in the safe and proper operation of all tools and equipment
• Provides for a safe campus environment by supervising and coordinating the removal of snow, ice, leaves, fallen branches, other weather-generated debris, and trash from all University grounds
• Ensures that groundskeeping personnel have the equipment and supplies necessary to perform their duties by estimating the types and amounts of materials and equipment needed for specific groundskeeping projects, ordering or contracting for their purchase, issuing the material and equipment to groundskeepers, and tracking and recording their use
• Trains grounds personnel, or oversees training, on how to properly perform grounds services, including operation of equipment, safe use of chemicals, pesticides, herbicides, and customer interface and encourages the exercise of initiative by fostering pride in maintaining the campus to the highest departmental standards
• Tracks work assignments and special duties, including seasonal grounds maintenance plans, preventive maintenance plans, and supervises planting, pruning, cultivating, seeding, and fertilizing of University grounds
• Advises the Director of Campus Operations of the condition of the campus grounds by conducting inspections of these areas, inspecting the work of grounds personnel and reporting problems, reporting the results of the inspections with particular emphasis on needed repairs. Report safety issues, student needs, light outages, and contractor abuse of University property
• Advises the Director of Campus Operations and the Director of Intercollegiate Athletics on the conditions and playability of all intercollegiate athletic game and practice fields, ensuring fields are properly mowed, weed-free, smooth and level
• Operates a forklift, backhoe, and lifts as needed. Makes recommendations as to the cost effectiveness of repairing, replacing or contracting repairs; performs procurement activities for outside repairs and services. Performs quality control to ensure work is correctly and safely completed; inspects work of employees for conformance to work plans and standard operating procedures. Prepares reports, work orders and documentation as required
• Reviews work orders, work progress, schedules, and priorities to ensure efficient and effective utilization of personnel and equipment. Receives requests for emergency and unscheduled work and makes arranges for prompt services. Oversees the department’s State Vehicle Inspection program as well as the preventative maintenance program
• Contributes to a work environment that encourages knowledge of, respect for, and development of skills to engage with those of other cultures or backgrounds
• Maintains competency and professional currency through self-directed professional reading, developing professional contacts with colleagues, attending professional development courses, and attending training and/or courses required by the Assistant Director Facilities Management-Grounds
• Contributes to the success of the Grounds Department by performing all other essential duties as assigned

EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE AND SKILLS REQUIRED

• High school diploma or equivalent
• Some supervisory experience
• Hold a valid Texas driver’s license, related insurance and good driving record
• Hold a valid Texas Department of Agriculture Noncommercial Applicator License to use restricted-use and state-limited-use pesticides and regulated herbicides within 90 days of the start of employment
• Knowledge of the methods of caring for lawns, trees, shrubs, and flowers
• Knowledge of modern principles and practices of landscape design
• Knowledge of soil conditions for the propagation of lawns, shrubs, trees, and flowers
• Trained forklift, backhoe, and lift operator
• Knowledge of metal fabrication – cutting and welding.
• Knowledge of small engine operation and repairs
• Knowledge of basic vehicle maintenance in support of the University’s transportation fleet
• Computer Skills – Utilizes a personal computer or laptop with word processing, spreadsheet, work order and related software to effectively complete a variety of administrative tasks with reasonable speed and accuracy