Groundskeeper

Job Purpose and Summary

This position is responsible for the construction, maintenance, repair and appearance of the landscaping and grounds surrounding the Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission’s (PTC) administrative offices. Work involves the application of insecticide and herbicide treatment of lawns, trees and shrubs within governing regulations. Work is assigned verbally or through written instructions. Work is performed with independent judgment and is reviewed by a supervisor or designee.

Essential Functions & Responsibilities

• Operates light equipment, including a one (1) ton dump truck with a manual transmission, plow and spreader and a compact tractor and attachments, including broom and front-end loader and other similar lawn care and landscaping equipment.
• Installs and maintains plant materials, which includes the proper application of pesticides.
• Ensures proper pruning of trees, shrubs and perennials.
• Ensures proper turf maintenance of PTC grounds, which includes mowing and application of turf fertilizers and herbicides.
• Ensures snow removal and the spreading of de-icing materials from walks, ramps and parking lots around the assigned building as directed by a supervisor.
• Maintains and repairs irrigation systems to ensure constant operations.  
• Ability to understand plans, specifications, drawings, blueprints and detailed instructions.
• Estimates time and materials needed for projects.
• Perform assigned noncomplex, routine building maintenance duties.
• Operates a radio to receive calls and dispatch messages. 
• Operate office equipment including, but not limited to: telephone, facsimile machine and photocopier
• Works extended hours to assist in management of normal and emergency maintenance operations.
• Uses situational awareness to anticipate and prevent accidents.
• Performs related duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Education and Licenses

• High school diploma or equivalent certification. 
• Possession of a valid driver’s license. 
• Possession of a valid Pennsylvania Pesticide Application Certification.

Minimum Experience and Abilities

• Three years of experience in the field of commercial landscaping OR any equivalent combination of experience or education. 

Competencies

Physical Demands and Work Environment

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

Position demands include frequent speaking, writing and reading of reports.  Position requires the physical capability to appropriately stand, stoop, walk, lift and carry heavy tools and/or equipment when necessary. Works overhead or in a bending or squatting position. Frequently lifts and/or carries up to 50 pounds of equipment, material and tools, occasionally up to 90 pounds without the assistance of a heavy lifting device. Position demands occasionally working long hours in emergency situations, adverse weather conditions or for extended work assignments. Position requires occasional travel and/or fieldwork with exposure to roadway traffic.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

Exposure to some undesirable or unpleasant environmental conditions.  May have exposure to hazardous chemicals.  Exposure to high temperatures, heights, dust and noise.  Exposure to wet and damp places. Physical environment is generally safe, but safety equipment and procedures must be utilized and followed.

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