Lead Grounds

LEAD GROUNDS - JOB DESCRIPTIONReports To:Grounds/Custodial ManagerJob Goal:To lead, coordinate, and actively participate in the maintenance and improvement of all district grounds while ensuring high standards of safety, quality, and efficiency. This position is responsible for independently planning and executing daily and seasonal work, keeping the crew productive at all times, and maintaining at a high level the district properties without the need for constant direction. The Lead Grounds employee is expected to take ownership of operations, anticipate needs, and ensure work is completed proactively.Evaluation:Annually in accordance with Board policyTerms of Employment:260 days. Salary per the OAPSE contracted pay scale agreementEducation and Training:1. High school diploma or GED required2. Secondary education or training in horticulture, turf management, or related field preferred3. Minimum of two (2) years of supervisory or crew leadership experience preferred4. Experience in school district or municipal grounds maintenance preferred5. Equivalent combinations of education and experience may be consideredQualifications:1. Ability to perform all essential physical job functions2. Strong working knowledge of grounds maintenance, mowing practices, and seasonal care3. Proven ability to lead by example while working alongside a crew4. Ability to plan, prioritize, and adjust work schedules based on weather, field usage, and district needs5. Effective communication skills, both verbal and written6. Ability to hold employees accountable while maintaining a positive and productive team environment7. Strong organizational skills with attention to detail8. Experience with equipment operation, maintenance, and basic troubleshooting9. Ability to assist with vendor coordination when needed10. Valid Ohio Driver's License with acceptable driving record11. Demonstrated ability to work independently, take initiative, and make decisions without constant supervision12. Strong work ethic with the ability to set the pace and standard for the crew13. Ability to proactively identify work needs and keep staff consistently productive throughout the day14. Experience mentoring, training, and developing employees in a hands-on environmentDuties and Responsibilities:Leadership & Crew Management:1. Lead and work alongside a grounds crew, ensuring a high level of daily productivity2. Set the pace and standard for work ethic, professionalism, and efficiency3. Assign, monitor, and adjust daily tasks to ensure all work is completed effectively4. Keep all crew members actively engaged and on task throughout the workday5. Train, mentor, and develop staff to improve skill level, efficiency, and accountability6. Address minor performance concerns and communicate issues to management as needed7. Foster a team environment focused on accountability, reliability, and consistent performancePlanning & Scheduling:8. Independently identify, prioritize, and initiate daily and weekly work without the need for constant direction9. Develop and adjust work schedules based on weather conditions, seasonal priorities, and district needs10. Maintain continuous workflow by planning ahead and ensuring there is always productive work assigned11. Anticipate needs related to mowing cycles, athletic schedules, and seasonal changes12. Coordinate grounds maintenance activities to support athletic events, practices, and school functions13. Coordinate and assist with event setup and teardown as requiredGrounds Maintenance:14. Perform routine and advanced grounds maintenance including mowing, trimming, edging, and general upkeep15. Ensure all district properties, including athletic fields and common areas, meet established appearance and safety standards16. Assist in the maintenance and care of artificial turf fieldsEquipment & Inventory Management:17. Maintain responsibility for all grounds equipment including mowers, tools, and small engines18. Ensure equipment is properly used, cleaned, and stored by all staff19. Perform or coordinate routine maintenance and minor repairs to minimize downtime20. Track and manage inventory of supplies, materials, and parts21. Submit purchase requests as needed to maintain efficient operationsCommunication & Coordination:22. Provide regular updates to management regarding work progress, equipment status, and potential issues23. Assist with vendor coordination when management is unavailable24. Identify and communicate opportunities for improvement, efficiency, or cost savingsWork Standards & Expectations:25. Maintain at a consistently high level, the appearance of the grounds and facilities. 26. Ensure no unnecessary downtime by proactively assigning and initiating work27. Take full ownership of assigned responsibilities without reliance on constant direction28. Demonstrate initiative by identifying problems and addressing them before they escalate29. Serve as the primary point of leadership in the field when management is not presentAdditional Responsibilities:30. Maintain required records and work logs31. Assist in identifying and planning special projects32. Perform other related duties as assigned by management

Created: 2026-04-03