"Grounds Maintenance I"

Job Summary

Works under the supervision of the Grounds Supervisor as part of the Grounds Maintenance team. Assists with the maintenance of grounds equipment and vehicles. Participates in the daily operations and maintenance of campus property including lawns, planting beds, campus walkways, campus roads, parking lots and outdoor athletic facilities along with other associated tasks as directed by the Grounds Supervisor.

Salary Range

$17-$18. This is the expected hourly range for this position. The hourly range offered will depend on a candidate's experience and education, and departmental budget.

Essential Functions

• Plants, mows, fertilizes, weeds, mulches and prunes.
• Maintains grass, trees, shrubs and other plantings as directed.
• Removes snow with plows, power brushes, snow blowers, snow shovels and applies de-icing products.
• Operates and conducts maintenance on grounds equipment including trucks, tractors, skid steers, forklifts and other vehicles.
• Performs outdoor garbage removal and litter pick up as needed.
• Moves supplies and equipment and stores them as directed.
• Conducts athletic field maintenance and repairs.
• Assists with hardscape installations, maintenance and repairs including benches, pavers, blocks, decorative stone and border edging.
• Performs machine and equipment maintenance, including oil and filter changes.
• Participates in training and evaluation of temporary student workers.

Other Duties and Responsibilities

• Supports the mission, vision and values of Elmhurst University.
• Demonstrates a strong commitment to continuous improvement.
• Follows all safety rules and regulations.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

• Ability to work well with students, faculty, staff and the general public.
• Valid Class C driver’s license or ability to obtain one.
• Illinois pesticide operator’s and/or applicator’s license (or commitment to achieve one within a year).

Preferred Qualifications

• Grounds maintenance experience, including snow removal.
• Ability to operate a forklift, tractor, bobcat dump truck and other maintenance vehicles.
• Knowledge of plants, shrubs and trees are a plus but not essential. Will train as needed.
• Knowledge of grounds equipment and supplies including their proper usage.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment.
• Mechanical aptitude a plus.

Working Conditions/Physical Requirements

The essential functions of this position require regular movement between indoor and outdoor campus locations, with exposure to varying weather conditions, including extreme heat and cold. Work is often physically demanding in nature and may require walking, navigating uneven or slippery surfaces, climbing stairs and ladders, bending, kneeling, and standing for extended periods. Required abilities include frequent use of fine motor skills to push, pull, or maneuver a range of equipment. Work requires regular lifting of objects up to 50 pounds, and occasional lifting of up to 100 pounds. Qualified applicants who can perform the essential functions of this position with or without reasonable accommodations will be considered.

Work Hours

7:00 am – 3:30 pm Monday-Friday. Willingness to work overtime as needed including weekends, evenings, and early mornings.

Posting Date

09/25/2025

Closing Date

Open Until Filled

Special Instructions to Applicants

An overview of Elmhurst University benefits is available here.

This position is designated by Elmhurst University as being safety sensitive. Per University policy, candidates for employment in safety-sensitive positions must comply with pre-employment drug testing, and employment in these positions is contingent upon completion of a drug test with satisfactory results. With consideration for the working conditions and physical requirements for this position, as described in the section above, a physical examination is required as well. Both the drug testing and physical examination are conducted at the University’s expense in an approved facility within one week of acceptance of a written offer of employment. Candidates may communicate with the testing facility and with Human Resources to explain any positive test results. For additional information regarding this policy, candidates may email Human Resources at hr@elmhurst.edu for assistance.

Elmhurst University is a leading four-year institution of higher education that seamlessly blends a liberal arts education and professional preparation to help students acquire knowledge and skills for enduring success. Founded in 1871, Elmhurst now offers more than 70 undergraduate programs of study, more than 20 graduate and certificate programs in flexible formats, and the Elmhurst Learning and Success Academy for young adults with differing abilities. Elmhurst University ranks among the top 10 best regional colleges and universities in the Midwest, according to U.S. News & World Report.

Recruiting and retaining a diverse workforce is a critical component of the University’s mission, vision and core values. Our commitment stems from the belief that an institution of higher learning is enriched by the presence of diversity. Elmhurst University is an equal opportunity employer and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type and affords equal employment opportunities to employees and applicants without regard to race, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, religion, age, creed, ancestry, veteran status, marital status, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Direct Link to this Posting

https://elmhurst.simplehire.com/postings/2951