Key Responsibilities and Required Skills for Grounds Supervisor Assistant

🎯 Role Definition

Are you a seasoned landscaping professional ready to take the next step into a leadership role? We're looking for a proactive and detail-oriented Grounds Supervisor Assistant to join our dynamic team. In this pivotal role, you will work directly alongside the Grounds Supervisor to plan, coordinate, and oversee the daily maintenance and beautification of our extensive grounds. You will be instrumental in leading a team of groundskeepers, ensuring the highest standards of safety and quality are met. This is a fantastic opportunity to mentor a dedicated crew, manage diverse landscaping projects, and make a visible impact on our property's aesthetic appeal and functionality. If you thrive in an outdoor environment and have a talent for both plants and people, we want to hear from you!

📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

Lead Groundskeeper
Senior Landscaper
Irrigation Specialist
Arborist Technician

Advancement To:

Grounds Supervisor
Grounds Manager
Director of Facilities & Grounds
Landscape Project Manager

Lateral Moves:

Horticulturist
Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Specialist
Facilities Coordinator

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

Assist the Grounds Supervisor in planning, scheduling, and delegating daily work assignments to a team of groundskeepers to ensure efficient and timely completion of tasks.
Actively lead, train, and mentor grounds crew members on proper equipment operation, safety procedures, and horticultural best practices.
Directly supervise and participate in all aspects of landscape maintenance, including mowing, edging, trimming, pruning, and weeding of lawns, gardens, and natural areas.
Oversee and execute turf management programs, including fertilization, aeration, overseeding, and pest/disease control to maintain healthy and attractive athletic fields and common areas.
Manage and maintain complex irrigation systems, performing regular inspections, repairs, adjustments, and seasonal startups/shutdowns to ensure optimal water efficiency.
Coordinate and lead the seasonal planting of annuals, perennials, shrubs, and trees, ensuring proper installation techniques and post-planting care.
Operate a wide variety of light and heavy-duty grounds maintenance equipment, such as commercial mowers, tractors, loaders, aerators, and chainsaws.
Implement and enforce all safety policies and procedures, conduct regular safety meetings, and ensure the crew uses appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE).
Direct snow and ice removal operations, including supervising plowing, shoveling, and the application of de-icing agents to ensure safe access to all facilities during winter months.
Monitor and inspect the condition of all grounds, identifying and reporting any issues related to plant health, infrastructure, or safety hazards.
Perform routine preventative maintenance and minor repairs on grounds equipment to ensure it remains in safe and operable condition.
Assist in developing and implementing Integrated Pest Management (IPM) strategies to control weeds, insects, and diseases in a sustainable manner.
Provide hands-on leadership by working alongside the crew, setting a high standard for quality, productivity, and professionalism.
Act as the primary point of contact for the grounds crew and assume the responsibilities of the Grounds Supervisor in their absence.

Secondary Functions

Assist in managing inventory of supplies, tools, chemicals, and equipment, and make recommendations for procurement.
Maintain accurate daily logs and records of completed work, pesticide/fertilizer applications, and staff hours for reporting purposes.
Support the planning and execution of small-scale landscape construction and enhancement projects, such as installing hardscapes, new garden beds, or drainage solutions.
Coordinate with outside vendors and contractors for specialized services like tree removal, major equipment repair, or large-scale projects.
Respond to urgent or emergency situations, such as storm damage cleanup, fallen trees, or major irrigation leaks, often outside of normal working hours.
Provide input and recommendations to the Grounds Supervisor regarding landscape design improvements, equipment acquisition, and annual budget planning.
Interact courteously with clients, staff, and the public, addressing inquiries and concerns related to grounds maintenance in a professional manner.
Contribute to the development of a long-term grounds management plan that aligns with organizational goals and sustainability initiatives.

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

Advanced Horticultural Knowledge: Deep understanding of plant identification, soil science, plant pathology, and regional plant requirements.
Turfgrass Management: Expertise in the care, maintenance, and renovation of various types of turf, including athletic fields and fine lawns.
Irrigation System Mastery: Proficiency in the installation, troubleshooting, repair, and programming of commercial-grade irrigation systems.
Equipment Operation & Maintenance: Skilled in operating and performing routine maintenance on a wide range of groundskeeping equipment, including tractors, loaders, and specialized turf machinery.
Pesticide/Herbicide Application: Possession of (or ability to obtain) a state-issued pesticide applicator's license and knowledge of safe chemical handling.
Snow & Ice Management: Proven experience in leading snow removal operations, including knowledge of plowing techniques and proper de-icing material application.
Project Coordination: Ability to assist in planning and executing small-to-medium scale landscape enhancement or construction projects.
Safety Regulation Compliance: Strong knowledge of OSHA standards and industry safety best practices for landscaping and grounds maintenance.

Soft Skills

Leadership & Supervision: Ability to direct, motivate, and mentor a diverse team to achieve high-quality results.
Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication skills for interacting with crew members, management, and stakeholders.
Problem-Solving: Strong analytical and critical thinking skills to diagnose issues and implement effective solutions quickly.
Time Management & Organization: Exceptional ability to prioritize tasks, manage schedules, and organize workflows for a team in a fast-paced environment.
Attention to Detail: A keen eye for quality and aesthetics, ensuring all work meets or exceeds established standards.
Adaptability: Flexibility to work in varying weather conditions and respond to changing priorities and emergency situations.
Strong Work Ethic: A reliable, self-motivated individual who leads by example and is committed to task completion.

Education & Experience

Educational Background

Minimum Education:

High School Diploma or GED equivalent.

Preferred Education:

Associate's or Bachelor's Degree in a related field. Professional certifications (e.g., Certified Landscape Technician) are highly desirable.

Relevant Fields of Study:

Horticulture
Turfgrass Management
Landscape Management or Architecture
Plant Science

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range:

3-5 years of progressive experience in commercial grounds maintenance, landscaping, or a related field.

Preferred:

At least 1-2 years of experience in a lead worker or supervisory capacity, directing the work of a small team. Experience in a large-campus setting (e.g., university, corporate park, resort) is a significant plus.