Groundskeeper

Position Summary: Under the supervision of the Grounds Supervisor, the Groundskeeper is responsible for the upkeep, appearance, and safe condition of Tribal grounds, including landscaped areas, parks, pow wow grounds, community gathering spaces, and facility exteriors. Higher level positions include specialized skills, equipment operation, and leadership duties. 

Essential Functions:

• Maintain lawns, trees, shrubs, flowerbeds, and landscaped areas.  
• Perform litter control and debris removal. 
• Plant and maintain flowers, shrubs, and trees. 
• Operate groundskeeping equipment safely. 
• Assist with snow and ice removal on tribal properties.
• Maintain exterior pathways, sidewalks, parking lots, and recreational areas.
• Observe safety and environmental standards.
• Provide respectful service to Tribal members, elders, and guests.

Level I:

• Perform basic manual grounds tasks (raking, weeding, litter pickup.)
• Assist in mowing, edging, and trimming.
• Load and unload materials and debris.
• Learn safe equipment operation.
• Assist with seasonal tasks (snow removal, leaf cleanup, planting, etc.)

Level II:

• Operate riding mowers, trimmers, blowers, and other equipment.
• Perform minor irrigation repairs and adjustments.
• Identify and treat common tuf and plant issues.
• Maintain specialized areas such as athletic fields or pow wow grounds.
• Apply fertilizer or pesticides in compliance with regulation.
• Train and guide Groundskeeper I employees.

Level III:

• Lead daily work of grounds crew.
• Prioritize and assign work orders.
• Train staff in equipment use, safety, and grounds care best practices. 
• Operate and maintain large or specialized machinery.
• Oversee projects such as landscape installations or field renovations.
• Maintain inventory and assist with ordering supplies.
• Coordinate snow management and seasonal planning.
• Serve as primary point of contact for grounds related issues. 

Non-Essential Functions:

• Perform building and wood working maintenance, such as minor facilities repairs, interior and exterior painting, staining etc.
• Perform other related functions as assigned. 

Equipment:

• Various Heavy and Maintenance machines used, such as skid steers, front end loaders, high-lifts, stump grinders, mowers, tractors, snowplows and blowers, chain saws, electric clippers, sod cutters, edgers, shears, pruners, hand or automatic sprayers or spreaders, and more. 

Position Requirements: 

Level I (PB-3)

• High School Diploma or GED required.
• Ability to follow instructions.
• Ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions.
• Complete tasks reliably and on time.
• Follow safety protocols.
• Demonstrate a respectful attitude toward tribal community members. Uphold tribal values of respect, safety, and community service. 
• Maintain good attendance and punctuality
• Communicate effectively with team and supervisor. 
• Must have a valid driver’s license and meet insurance requirements to utilize Pokagon Band vehicles.

Level 1I (PB-4)

• All prior requirements
• Minimum two (2) years of experience.in groundskeeping, landscaping, or a related field.
• Knowledge of turf care, landscaping, and basic irrigation systems.
• Ability to safely operate power equipment (riding mowers, trimmers, blowers.)
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
• Pesticide applicator certification (or ability to obtain), preferred.
• Maintain quality standards for Tribal Properties.

Level III (PB-6)

• All prior requirements
• Minimum four (4) years of professional groundskeeping or landscaping.
• Strong knowledge of horticulture, turf management, and irrigation systems.
• Ability to lead a team and assign work.
• Equipment operation skills include tractors, skid steers, and large mowers.
• Basic record-keeping and reporting skills.
• May require CDL or pesticide license depending on duties.
• Lead and motivate team effectively.
• Maintain excellent standards of grounds appearance and safety.
• Demonstrate problem solving skills and initiative.
• Contribute to planning and process improvements.

Indian Preference:

• Pokagon Band Preference Code applies.

Physical Requirements:  

• Frequently required to use hands and fingers to operate equipment. 
• Frequently required to stoop, kneel, crouch, bend, and crawl, and stand for extended periods.
• Frequently required to lift and/or move up to 75 pounds or more.

Work Environment:

• Outdoor environment; frequently exposed to outside weather conditions during all four seasons.  
• Outdoor work on Tribal lands, and facilities.
• Exposure to weather, dust, pollen, and equipment noise.
• Occasional strenuous work required. 
• Local travel is necessary, so the ability to travel as needed is required. 
• Interaction with Tribal members, elders, and the general public.

Competencies:

• Adaptability
• Ensuring Accountability
• Continuous Learning
• Quality Focus
• Occupational Health and Safety