Grounds Category C - Groundskeeper II (Tues - Sat)

Position / Title: Grounds Category C - Groundskeeper II Bargaining Unit: ESSODepartment/Location: Plant Operations Work Days: 261Reports To: Coordinator of Grounds JD Revision Date: 05/29/2026Supervises: N/A

Function / Position Summary Supports the daily groundskeeping operation and assists in landscaping, arboriculture, concrete and asphalt maintenance, snow and ice management, and outdoor facilities and playground maintenance. Promptly reports any issues beyond their level of expertise to the appropriate supervisor and safely completes tasks in accordance with district and departmental policies, procedures, and guidelines. This role ensures the grounds remain clean, safe, and fully functional for students, staff, and community stakeholders.

Job Duties / Responsibilities

• Lead small crew to complete assigned tasks.
• Perform grounds maintenance tasks such as mowing, trimming, edging, fertilizing, weed control, and trash collection.
• Perform all aspects of grounds and landscaping maintenance tasks and operate associated equipment.
• Safely operate and maintain handheld tools, small engine equipment, tow trailers, skid steers and other heavy equipment.
• Diagnose, repair and install irrigation equipment.
• Perform repairs and replacements of various types of fencing.
• Prepare and maintain athletic fields, courts, and outdoor spaces for events and daily use.
• Provide support for events by coordinating setup, assisting during activities, and performing cleanup afterward, with flexibility for evening and weekend hours as required.
• Monitor and report grounds-related supplies and equipment needs.
• Work independently or collaboratively with departmental, district and/or contractor personnel to ensure the efficient operation and upkeep of all facilities.
• Facilitate snow and ice management operations using equipment and de-icing materials to maintain safe access.
• Maintain "on-call" status to respond to emergency and/or after-hour events such as snow/ice management or severe weather damage.
• Initiate requests and submit orders for supplies, materials, parts and tools following District purchasing procedures including obtaining quotes as needed from approved vendors.
• Use approved communication platforms and the district's work order system to promptly receive, initiate, track, complete, and close work orders and routinely monitor email and notifications for timely responses.
• Serve as a custodian floater to provide relief and maintain operations as needed.
• Other duties as assigned.

Education

• High School Diploma or equivalent required prior to start date.
• Valid Illinois Driver's License required prior to start date.
• Illinois Department of Agriculture Pesticide License required prior to start date.

Experience / Knowledge

• Minimum of two to three (2-3) years' experience in the operation and routine maintenance of common grounds equipment.
• Minimum of two to three (2-3) years' experience in landscape maintenance.
• Minimum of two to three (2-3) years' experience with snow and ice management and equipment.
• Ability to operate standard tools and grounds equipment within safety guidelines.
• Knowledge of plant material and the proper techniques for usage.
• Knowledge of irrigation equipment
• Knowledge of turfgrass science, sports field layout, maintenance, and construction.
• Knowledge of the installation and maintenance of playground equipment.
• Knowledge of fence material, installation and repair.
• Ability to take and pass the General Standards test of the Illinois Department of Agriculture Pesticide License program.
• Ability to read and understand work orders, safety procedures, equipment manuals, and other job-related materials; communicate effectively with supervisors, coworkers, and the public; and accurately complete required documentation.
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to work cooperatively and effectively with adults, students and community members.
• Basic computer knowledge.

Physical Demands

• Ability to sit, stand, kneel, stoop, climb stairs, and walk for extended periods of time.
• Ability to lift in excess of 75 lbs. with proper technique.
• Ability to work safely from stepladder, aerial lifts, and/or scaffolding at varying heights, up to 40 ft.
• Ability to push/pull 100 pounds with proper technique.
• Ability to work in a variety of environmental conditions, including exposure to extreme heat, cold, humidity, and inclement weather for prolonged periods.

Terms of Employment

• This is a 12-month ESSO position.
• Salary and benefits are as established by the agreement between ESSO and the Board of Education.
• Flexibility in work days/hours and overtime may be necessary.
• A passing score of 70 percent or higher is required on the mandatory practical application test.
• The starting rate for this role is $24.44/hr.