Grounds System Specialist

JOB TITLE: Grounds System Specialist (12 month – 240)

RESPONSIBLE TO: Director of Operations/Principal(s)

JOB GOAL:

To provide advanced technical expertise in the maintenance, operation, and repair of irrigation systems, turf management programs, and grounds infrastructure across Gulf Shores City Schools. This position ensures optimal performance of irrigation systems, proper application of fertilizers and treatments, and the development of high-quality, safe, and sustainable athletic fields and landscaped areas. The role supports system-wide efficiency, regulatory compliance, and long-term asset preservation.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

• Ability to meet suitability criteria for employment and/or certification/licensure under the Alabama Child Protection Act of 1999 and Act No. 2002-457.
• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Three (3) or more years of experience in grounds maintenance, irrigation systems, turf management, or related field.
• Ability to meet suitability criteria for employment and/or certification/licensure under the Alabama Child Protection Act of 1999 and Act No. 2002-457.
• Ability to obtain or possess an Alabama Pesticide Applicator License.
• Demonstrated knowledge of irrigation systems including controllers, valves, zones, troubleshooting, repair, and irrigation layouts/schematics.
• Demonstrated knowledge of turfgrass management, fertilization schedules, soil health, pest control methods, and chemical handling, storage, and application regulations.
• Demonstrated skill in the operation, maintenance, and safe use of specialized grounds and irrigation equipment, tools, materials, and methods, including mowers, trimmers, blowers, and edgers.
• Ability to diagnose irrigation and grounds system failures and implement corrective solutions independently.
• Knowledge of OSHA safety standards, environmental compliance requirements, and safe work practices.
• Ability to prioritize, plan, and execute multiple projects and assignments with minimal supervision.
• Strong problem-solving, analytical, interpersonal, and communication skills.
• Ability to work outdoors year-round in varying weather conditions, including heat, cold, rain, and humidity.
• Ability to perform physical labor including prolonged standing, walking, bending, kneeling, lifting, and carrying objects weighing up to 50 pounds, and exert up to 75 pounds of force.
• Ability and willingness to work after hours, weekends, or holidays when necessary.
• Ability to be punctual and maintain regular attendance.
• Such alternatives to the above qualifications as the Board may require

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Provides system-wide support to ensure safe, efficient, and high-quality grounds, landscaping, irrigation, and turf conditions across all assigned school sites.
• Supervises, trains, and supports Groundskeepers and grounds staff in proper grounds maintenance, irrigation practices, turf care techniques, equipment operation, and safe work procedures.
• Performs routine grounds maintenance including mowing, edging, trimming, blowing, weed control, litter removal, and general campus cleanup as needed to support daily operations.
• Maintains lawns, landscaped areas, playgrounds, parking areas, athletic fields, and outdoor facilities to ensure safe, clean, and attractive school environments.
• Assists with planting, watering, fertilizing, mulching, and care of trees, shrubs, flowers, and turf.
• Installs, maintains, programs, troubleshoots, and repairs irrigation systems including controllers, valves, pumps, lines, and related components.
• Diagnoses irrigation system failures and performs necessary repairs to ensure proper coverage, drainage, and operational efficiency.
• Develops and implements irrigation schedules based on seasonal conditions, soil moisture levels, weather patterns, and turf requirements.
• Monitors turf health and develops treatment plans to improve soil conditions, drainage, fertilization, and turf performance.
• Applies fertilizers, herbicides, pesticides, and other turf treatments in accordance with state regulations, manufacturer guidelines, and district policies.
• Calibrates, operates, and maintains application equipment to ensure accurate and safe chemical distribution.
• Maintains accurate records of chemical applications, irrigation repairs, preventative maintenance, equipment usage, and compliance documentation.
• Ensures compliance with OSHA safety standards, environmental regulations, chemical handling requirements, and all applicable safety procedures.
• Performs routine inspections of irrigation systems, grounds infrastructure, athletic fields, sidewalks, parking lots, and outdoor facilities for hazards, repairs, or service needs.
• Identifies inefficiencies and recommends grounds, irrigation, drainage, or system upgrades and improvements.
• Assists with budgeting needs related to irrigation parts, chemicals, equipment, turf management, and grounds improvements.
• Maintains inventory of irrigation supplies, chemicals, fertilizers, tools, and specialized grounds equipment.
• Performs preventative maintenance and minor repairs on grounds and irrigation equipment to extend operational life and reduce downtime.
• Maintains grounds storage areas, maintenance shops, tools, equipment, and work areas in a clean, organized, and safe condition.
• Assists with setup, breakdown, and preparation for school events, athletic events, and other district activities.
• Responds to emergency situations such as irrigation failures, leaks, storm damage, flooding, or other grounds-related safety hazards.
• Completes work assignments efficiently, independently, and in compliance with established standards and timelines.
• Establishes and maintains effective working relationships with administrators, supervisors, staff, students, vendors, contractors, and community members.
• Engages in ongoing professional development, required certifications, training, and safety instruction.
• Demonstrates initiative in identifying potential problems and opportunities for operational improvement.
• R eports maintenance needs, unusual events, work irregularities, or safety concerns to appropriate personnel in a timely manner.
• Responds to inquiries, requests, concerns, and complaints in a professional and positive manner.
• Maintains confidentiality and professionalism regarding school and workplace matters.
• Maintains and submits required reports, records, work orders, and documentation accurately and on time.
• Properly uses and cares for tools, equipment, vehicles, and material resources of the school system.
• Adheres to school system rules, administrative procedures, Board policies, and all applicable local, state, and federal regulations.
• Reports absences and takes leave in accordance with Board policies and procedures.
• Performs other job-related duties as assigned by Supervisor(s).

Salary: As per Maintenance Specialist salary schedule.