Grounds Superintendent

Class Concept

This is professional work in planning, initiating, and maintaining a comprehensive grounds program for a state facility or complex. Positions contribute to the development of a master grounds plan, direct the activities of the grounds department in carrying out such assignments and through subordinate supervision carry out the details of such plans.

Positions in this classification can serve as Landscape Architects with the main emphasis being involved in the planning, design, review and construction monitoring or oversight of landscape related projects. For positions that supervise grounds or garden operations, the duties include the training and supervision of subordinate employees and conferring with commercial nurseries and/or and landscape firms in receiving technical assistance, supplies, equipment, and plant stock. Positions in this classification work closely with agency planners, consulting architects, and other institutional personnel in developing and implementing recurring grounds projects applicable to major renovations and new constructions. Positions have the responsibility for departmental budget preparation and administration, and as directed, serve as an institutional representative or as a member of a committee whose function is related to grounds upkeep and serve as professional grounds consultants to agency administrators. Work is identified and guided by various technical and administrative directives and performed under the general supervision of a Facility Maintenance Director.

Recruitment Requirements

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Considerable knowledge of the horticultural principles and practices applicable to upkeep of grounds, flowers, and shrubs.
• Considerable knowledge of ornamental shrubs, plants, and flowers and their uses in landscaping buildings and garden areas.
• Ability to plan and direct the work of a grounds maintenance unit.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with faculty and staff members and other maintenance personnel.

Minimum Education and Experience

Bachelor's degree in horticulture science, landscape design, or closely related field from an appropriately accredited institution and three (3) years of progressive experience involving a wide variety of landscape and horticultural experience in the development and maintenance of large landscaped areas or in managing or supervising commercial landscape enterprises; or an equivalent combination of training and experience.

Necessary Special Requirements

Work may require registration with the North Carolina Board of Landscape Architects as a Landscape Architect.