Groundskeeper

Tacoma, United States

Posting Number:

0603004

Recruitment Type:

Open to Current PLU Faculty/Staff Only

Position Title:

Groundskeeper

Position Type:

Staff

Benefits Status:

Benefits Eligible

FLSA:

Non-Exempt

Hiring Range:

$20.33 per hour, plus excellent benefits.

Location

Tacoma, WA 98447.

Department:

Facilities Management

Posting Date:

09/29/2025

Closing Date

10/2/2025

Work Schedule:

FT; Monday-Friday, 6:30am-3:00pm. Some weekends may be required.

General Description:

The Groundskeeper is responsible for inspecting and maintaining University grounds to provide a safe environment for all University property and its users. Clean and maintain landscaped areas, trees, turf, paved surfaces, streams, ponds, and fountains. Reports to the Campus Services Manager and assigned Supervisor.

Essential Functions and Responsibilities:

Perform grounds maintenance tasks using industry recognized practices and procedures.
Direct and coordinate one to four work-study students in the safe operation of all tools and equipment and assigned duties.
Pressure wash surfaces.
Perform minor repairs/tune-ups to hand tools and powered hand and riding equipment.
Operate and maintain all equipment in accordance with state and federal regulations.
Assist with special event activities or emergency situations as directed.
Perform other duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

Knowledge of and commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Knowledge of hazards and safety precautions related to grounds maintenance, landscape construction, pesticide application, and the use/maintenance of power tools and equipment.
Knowledge of horticultural practices, procedures, and methods.
Ability to carry out written and verbal instructions in English with minimal supervision.
Ability to operate hand/power tools, automobiles, tractors, brush chippers, aerators, mowers, etc.
Ability to work independently, as part of a team, and under pressure.

Required Qualifications:

One and a half years of grounds maintenance or related experience. Related education may substitute.
High School Diploma or GED.
Valid driver’s license (Must have had a valid driver’s license for at least 2 years).
Finalist applicants must satisfactorily complete pre-employment background checks, driving abstract, and pass PLU’s Driver’s Certification Training.

Preferred Qualifications:

Work Conditions:

Work outdoors in all weather conditions for extended period of time in environment containing dust, odors, and high level of noise (>85dB).
Work while bending and stooping for extended periods, as well as from above ground areas such as ladders, aerial platforms and/or scaffolds.

Physical Requirements:

Safely lift and carry objects, unassisted, weighing up to 50 lbs. approximately 30 times each work shift, exert physical force in excess of 50 to 100 lbs. for 30% of each work shift.
Safely carry 40 lbs. backpack continuously for two hours each work shift.
Operate equipment involving dexterous use of both hands and feet simultaneously.

Special Instructions to Applicants:

Other Information:

PLU is a small, private university where caring means more than kindness and consideration — it means a bold commitment to expanding well-being, opportunity, and justice. Because PLU is a community committed to the creation and advancement of knowledge through diversity and inclusion, the university actively recruits a diverse faculty, staff, and student body. PLU is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes applications from members of historically underrepresented and minoritized groups, women, veterans, persons with disabilities, and others who would bring broadly diverse perspectives, experiences, and backgrounds in educational, research or other work activities.

PLU offers an excellent benefits package including tuition remission for employees and their dependents, retirement plan, medical, dental, paid vacation and sick leave, major holidays off (including Christmas/New Year’s break), additional flexible time off, and many other great university benefits. PLU is a qualifying employer under the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program as a 501©(3) tax-exempt organization.

For general application questions or if you need accommodations at any point in the application and/or interview process, please contact the Human Resources Office at 253-535-7185 or humr@plu.edu.

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