Grounds Manager

(Paid Opportunities) Return to Paid Opportunities

 Compensation: $22-$24/hour

The Grounds Manager (GM) leads the daily operations and long-term maintenance of Snug Harbor’s grounds, ensuring a safe, clean, and welcoming environment for the public. The Ground Manager supervises Groundskeepers, reporting to the Director of Horticulture and coordinating with other departments to ensure that site access, safety, and presentation standards are consistently achieved. The position balances hands-on fieldwork with planning, supervision, and coordination duties.

Responsibilities/Duties

FINANCE & ADMINISTRATION

  • Supports the Director of Horticulture in monitoring grounds maintenance budgets and material expenditures.
  • Tracks labor hours, supply usage, and equipment maintenance schedules.
  • Maintains accurate and timely records of grounds maintenance activities, inspections, and compliance documentation.
  • Contributes data to departmental and organizational reports, including organics waste, plant production, and maintenance.
  • Assists with procurement of tools, supplies, and safety materials.
  • Contributes to and maintains up-to-date training manuals and procedural guides to ensure staff and supervisors have clear, consistent, and compliant resources that support efficiency and continuous improvement.
  • Maintain accurate records of daily staff work agendas, performance, conduct, and development, fostering accountability and supporting continuous improvement within the team.

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

  • Models professionalism and approachability.
  • Coordinates to prepare grounds for events, programs, and volunteer projects.
  • Supports positive visitor experiences through proactive communication and courteous assistance.
  • Represents Snug Harbor’s mission and values in all interactions, promoting respect, inclusion, and environmental stewardship.
  • Coordinate and provide technical and/or material assistance and training for affiliated partners, including site visits and regular check-ins to ensure quality and impact.  Track resources shared and associated impact.

OPERATIONS & LOGISTICS

  • Oversees all aspects of grounds maintenance, including mowing, trimming, mulching, turf management, waste management, litter control, snow removal, and pathway safety.
  • Plans and directs seasonal maintenance schedules, ensuring consistent site readiness.
  • Conducts routine inspections of tools, vehicles, and machinery; ensures proper storage and use.
  • Coordinates with Facilities, Horticulture, and Farm teams on shared logistical needs, including waste management, signage, climate and irrigation systems.
  • Leads safety briefings, ensures compliance with OSHA and DoL standards, and responds promptly to hazards or incidents.
  • Coordinate and monitor IPM operations across zones, ensuring consistent application of best practices, proper use of materials and PPE, and timely communication of pest concerns or treatment results to the Director, Horticulture.
  • Develop, coordinate, and implement departmental work plans by setting quarterly improvement goals, preparing daily and seasonal agendas, and estimating project timelines, material needs, and costs to increase efficiency and support smooth team operations.

TRAINING & WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT

  • Supervises and mentors Groundskeepers, ensuring alignment with departmental standards and expectations.
  • Trains staff, interns, and volunteers in safe equipment operation, maintenance practices, and horticultural techniques.
  • Promotes a team culture focused on accountability, skill-building, and continuous improvement.
  • Supports interns and workforce development participants in developing professional and technical competencies.

CROSS-DEPARTMENT COORDINATION & REPORTING

  • Communicates regularly with the Director of Horticulture to plan and evaluate grounds operations.
  • Coordinates scheduling and priorities with Community Impact team to balance maintenance, events, and patron needs.
  • Provides input for capital planning and site improvement projects.
  • Creates weekly reports summarizing work completed, issues addressed, and upcoming priorities.
  • Proactively identify, report, and document safety, security, and maintenance concerns, conducting regular risk inspections and collaborating across departments to ensure timely resolution of issues and incidents.

Qualifications/Requirements

  • Demonstrated strong initiative in communication and collaboration to reach team goals
  • Demonstrated administrative experience, which includes organizational skills and a high level of customer service
  • Knowledge of Microsoft Outlook and proficiency in Word, Excel, and PowerPoint
  • Top-notch people skills, with demonstrated experience in effectively communicating with the public and diverse backgrounds and interests
  • Proven team supervision experience
  • Detail-oriented and proactive, with excellent follow-up and project management skills
  • Ability to take direction, work quickly, independently, and with discretion
  • Priority on accessibility to green spaces, with a commitment to inclusivity, and safety.
  • Valid driver’s license
  • Commitment to developing IPM proficiency, including pesticide certification within six months.
  • Commitment to continuous professional development

WORKING CONDITIONS:

This position operates in a primarily outdoor environment, requiring frequent physical activity and exposure to seasonal weather conditions. The Grounds Manager balances fieldwork and administrative responsibilities, including planning, coordination, and supervision. Work involves lifting up to 50 pounds, operating equipment, and maintaining awareness of safety procedures. Occasional early mornings, weekends, or evenings may be required for events or weather-related operations.

Contact Information

Snug Harbor Cultural Center & Botanical Garden
Contact Name: Brookelle Bodin
Email: jobs@snug-harbor.org
Website: Apply Online