Shire Veteran Jobs

The Strong takes pride in its outstanding appearance, both inside and out. As a member of the grounds team, this position contributes to the favorable first impression from the moment guests arrive to the museum. The groundskeeper III is responsible for project-based supervision and coordination of the grounds team members. Activities include summer and winter maintenance of grounds property including sidewalks, grounds, gardens, irrigation systems and the parking garage. Our groundskeepers work in compliance with all relevant standards, regulations, and procedures to ensure the safety of themselves and others in the workplace.

This role requires a high degree of mechanical aptitude. This grounds crew member is primarily responsible for the maintenance and upkeep of the museum’s fleet of equipment.

Essential Functions:

• Direct and supervise the groundskeeping team in the field.

• Develop and coordinate project activities to ensure that instructions are followed, deadlines are met, and schedules are maintained.

• Act as a positive role model to the groundskeepers by encouraging teamwork.

• Establish and enforce operating procedures and work standards that will ensure adequate performance and personnel safety, including the proper use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).

• Take an active role in maintaining and repairing museum equipment.

• Confer with the director of grounds and live collections to coordinate the grounds team’s work activities with those of other teams, depending on work priorities, equipment availability, or weather conditions.

• Gather and remove litter and debris daily from grounds and parking garage, and empty outdoor trash receptacles.

• Safely operate all museum equipment.

• Perform warm weather seasonal tasks including but not limited to:

• Mowing, edging, and trimming lawns

• Caring for turf grass by topdressing, seeding, aerating, weeding, and dethatching

• Pruning and trimming trees, shrubs, and hedges

• Maintaining plant beds by mulching and weeding

• Planting annuals, perennials, and trees

• Watering

• Mixing and applying fertilizers, herbicides, or insecticides as directed

• Pressure washing, cleaning windows, and participating in the parking garage washdown

• Perform snow removal tasks during winter months including:

• Shoveling

• Snow blowing

• Plowing with skid steer, trucks, and other snow removal equipment

• Applying deicer(s)

• Remove snow safely and efficiently from garage parking deck

• Provide proper upkeep of sidewalks, parking garage, and other grounds features.

• Maintain equipment fleet and update equipment logs.

• Recommend changes in equipment use to increase team efficiency.

• Manage vendors working onsite.

• Inventory supplies of tools, equipment, and materials to ensure that sufficient supplies are available and items are in usable condition. Coordinate ordering with supervisor.

• Maintain the museum's irrigation system and adjust irrigation schedules.

• Maintain records necessary for the general maintenance of equipment and grounds.

• Efficiently work to complete assigned tasks according to schedule and within deadlines.

• Identify and implement cost saving measures.

• Attend routine safety training and continuing education events as directed.

Minimum Qualifications:

• High school diploma or equivalency

• 5 years’ experience in landscaping, greenhouse maintenance, or horticulture

• Possession of a valid New York State driver’s license

• Ability to identify common species of plants and weeds

• Must take pride in the appearance of the museum and maintain a high standard of work

• Self-directing and goal-oriented

• Must enjoy working outside regardless of the weather, as this position requires spending much time outdoors, even during the winter season

• Proficient in the proper use of power and hand tools

• Ability to prioritize safety in the workplace and implement and follow all necessary safety procedures related to the position

• Strong ability to collaboratively and respectfully work with others

• Final candidate must consent to and successfully complete a drug screen, physical examination including a hearing test, and criminal background check as conditions of employment