Grounds Maintenance Worker

Compensation:

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Position Summary

MAJOR DUTIES

• Weeds, mulches, fertilizes, sprays (pesticides/herbicides), mows and trims lawns; rakes leaves; operates mowers and string trimmers to trim and edge grounds.

• Collects trash and debris from grounds; loads and unloads brush, branches and rubbish.

• Participates in snow and ice removal during regular operation hours and if needed after hours.

• Maintains and performs repairs on assigned tools and equipment.

• Prunes annuals, perennials, trees, and shrubs.

• Implements landscape maintenance or renovation projects using appropriate plants and materials.

• Obtains a Public Pesticide applicators license through the New Mexico Department of Agriculture and maintains the license throughout employment.

• Calculates amounts and applies pesticides and herbicides.

• Assists with completion of work orders as assigned by the supervisor.

• Performs greenhouse duties; plants seeds and transplants seedlings; and performs other greenhouse duties as required by the supervisor.

• Programs, monitors and inspects irrigation systems; repairs irrigation system as needed.

• Assists in preparations, all post operations and clean-up for special events.

• Performs related duties.

KNOWLEDGE REQUIRED BY THE POSITION

• Knowledge of grounds maintenance principles and practices.

• Knowledge of grounds equipment operation, maintenance and repair principles.

• Knowledge of irrigation system operation, maintenance and repair principles.

• Knowledge of greenhouse management principles.

• Skill in the operation of grounds maintenance and snow removal equipment.

• Skill in decision making and problem solving.

• Skill in interpersonal relations and in dealing with the public.

• Skill in oral and written communication.

• Skill in working effectively with a wide range of constituencies in a diverse community.

SUPERVISORY CONTROLS

The Grounds Maintenance Supervisor assigns work in terms of somewhat general instructions. The supervisor spot-checks completed work for compliance with instructions and established procedures, accuracy and the nature and propriety of the final results.

GUIDELINES

Guidelines include equipment operation and maintenance manuals, safe work guidelines, and college policies and procedures. These guidelines are generally clear and specific, but may require some interpretation in application. 

COMPLEXITY/SCOPE OF WORK

• The work consists of related grounds maintenance duties. Inclement weather contributes to the complexity of the position.

• The purpose of this position is to participate in the maintenance of campus grounds. Success in this position contributes to the provision of a safe and well-maintained environment for college operations.

CONTACTS

• Contacts are typically with co-workers, other college personnel, faculty, staff, students, contractors, vendors, and members of the general public.

• Contacts are typically to give or exchange information, to resolve problems, or to provide services.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS/ WORK ENVIRONMENT

• This position involves frequent physical activity, including standing, walking (minimum of six hours daily), bending, stooping, lifting, and carrying materials or equipment. Employees must be able to lift and carry up to 50 pounds independently and up to 100 pounds with assistance.
• Work is performed in varied environments including offices, greenhouses, and outdoor settings in all weather conditions (e.g., extreme heat, cold, rain, and snow), often on uneven terrain and sometimes at heights requiring ladder use.
• Employees regularly use hand and power tools and must demonstrate a high degree of dexterity, color differentiation, and the ability to smell and hear effectively for safety and task performance.
• Exposure to physical and environmental hazards such as dust, dirt, noise, moving machinery, infectious diseases, and irritating chemicals is common. Use of employer-provided Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) such as gloves, goggles, and masks is required.

SUPERVISORY AND MANAGEMENT RESPONSIBILITY

This position does not have formal supervisory responsibilities, but may provide guidance and support to less experienced seasonal workers and student workers, under the direction of the Grounds Crew Leader and Grounds Maintenance Supervisor.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Ability to read, write and perform basic mathematical calculations.

• Possession of or ability to readily obtain a valid driver’s license for the type of vehicle or equipment operated.

• Sufficient experience to understand the basic principles relevant to the major duties of the position, usually associated with the completion of an apprenticeship/ internship or having had a similar position for one to two years.

This position will remain open until filled with the first review of applications occurring on Wednesday April 8, 2026.

EEO STATEMENT: San Juan College is dedicated to providing equal employment and educational opportunities without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, age, genetic, veteran's status, or on the basis of any other category protected under federal, state and local laws.