Groundskeeper

DISTINGUISHING FEATURES OF THE CLASS

The work involves responsibility for performing unskilled or limited semi-skilled manual tasks in the maintenance of public grounds. Under immediate supervision, groundskeepers are responsible for the satisfactory performance of a variety of light and heavy manual laboring tasks in the maintenance of public grounds. Some assignments, including equipment operation, may require skills that may be readily learned on the job. Usually work is performed under the immediate supervision of an employee of a higher classification, but many tasks assigned may be routine and repetitive in nature and once learned, can be carried on without difficulty and under only general supervision. Employees in this class may also perform manual, laboring tasks at the agency of assignment. An employee in this class typically does not exercise supervision. Does related work as required.

TYPICAL WORK ACTIVITIES

Performs a variety of grounds maintenance work not requiring specialized knowledges and skills; cultivates, prunes, sprays and trims; cuts grass and weeds by hand tools and mowers; burlaps trees by tying sacks around the roots.

Assists a superior in planting and transplanting trees and shrubbery, in burying roots and putting soil and water around roots; trims hedges and rakes leaves.

Operates snow removal equipment and removes snow, and salts and sands driveways and sidewalks and performs other related manual tasks during the winter.

May be required to operate motor equipment.

Participates in the application of fertilizers, insecticides, herbicides, and pesticides to lawns, trees, shrubs, and plants (under supervision of a certified applicator or upon possession of said certification).

May occasionally supervise seasonal employees/laborers in the absence of a supervisor.

May interact with the public to ensure expectations and contract requirements are met.

May occasionally supervise seasonal employees and park laborers in the absence of a supervisor.

FULL PERFORMANCE KNOWLEDGES, SKILLS, ABILITIES AND PERSONAL CHARACTERISTICS

Working knowledge of the practices and techniques of general ground maintenance.

Working knowledge of simple tools used in ground maintenance work.

Ability to understand and follow oral or written instructions.

Ability to operate simple machinery.

Sufficient physical strength and agility and freedom from disabling defects to do heavy manual labor, occasionally under adverse weather conditions.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

None.