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Entry Level Groundskeeper Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Groundskeeper

Quantico, VA · On-site

$16.50 - $21/hr

What You Need for Success: * Entry level to 6 months of general custodial/maintenance experience. * Beginning level understanding of grounds maintenance. * Ability to use hand and power tools and ...

Groundskeeper

Quantico, VA · On-site

$16.50 - $21/hr

Qualifications What You Need for Success: * Entry level to 6 months of general custodial/maintenance experience. * Beginning level understanding of grounds maintenance. * Ability to use hand and ...

Showing results 41-60

Entry Level Groundskeeper information

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$10

$17

$24

How much do entry level groundskeeper jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level groundskeeper in the United States is $17.13, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.66 and $18.75 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How to become an entry level groundskeeper with no experience?

To become an entry-level groundskeeper with no experience, focus on developing basic outdoor maintenance skills and physical stamina. Many employers provide on-the-job training, so applying to entry-level positions and demonstrating reliability and willingness to learn can help you start in this field. Having a valid driver's license and being comfortable working outdoors are also beneficial.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as an entry level groundskeeper?

To thrive as an Entry Level Groundskeeper, you need basic knowledge of landscaping techniques, familiarity with plant care, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Experience using lawn mowers, trimmers, leaf blowers, and basic gardening tools is typically required. Reliability, attention to detail, and the ability to work well in a team are important soft skills for this role. These skills ensure that outdoor areas are maintained safely, efficiently, and to a high standard, contributing to the overall appearance and function of the property.

What is the difference between Entry Level Groundskeeper vs Grounds Maintenance Worker?

AspectEntry Level GroundskeeperGrounds Maintenance Worker
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some certifications in landscaping or safetySimilar; often requires basic certifications in landscaping or safety
Work EnvironmentOutdoor settings like parks, schools, sports fieldsOutdoor environments including parks, commercial properties, sports complexes
Employer & Industry UsageMunicipalities, schools, parks, landscaping companiesPublic and private sector facilities, landscaping firms
Common Search & Comparison IntentYesYes

The main difference between an Entry Level Groundskeeper and a Grounds Maintenance Worker is often minimal, with both roles involving outdoor landscaping, lawn care, and basic maintenance. The terms are frequently used interchangeably, but 'Grounds Maintenance Worker' may sometimes imply a broader scope or more experienced role. Both positions typically require similar credentials and work environments, making them closely related in the landscaping industry.

What does an entry level groundskeeper do?

An entry level groundskeeper is responsible for maintaining the appearance and health of outdoor grounds such as lawns, gardens, parks, and sports fields. Typical tasks include mowing grass, trimming hedges, raking leaves, watering plants, and removing debris. They may also assist with planting flowers or shrubs and performing minor repairs to outdoor equipment or fixtures. This position usually requires working outdoors in various weather conditions and sometimes operating basic landscaping tools and machinery. Entry level groundskeepers often work under the supervision of more experienced staff or a grounds manager.

What challenges might an entry level groundskeeper face during their first few months on the job?

New groundskeepers often encounter challenges such as adapting to outdoor working conditions in various weather, learning to safely operate equipment like mowers and trimmers, and understanding the specific landscaping standards of their employer. It can also take time to build efficiency in maintaining large areas and to recognize the signs of plant health issues. However, most teams provide thorough training and support, allowing new hires to gradually build confidence and skill in their daily tasks.
More about Entry Level Groundskeeper jobs
What cities are hiring for Entry Level Groundskeeper jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level Groundskeeper job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Groundskeeper jobs? The most popular types of Groundskeeper jobs are:
What states have the most Entry Level Groundskeeper jobs? States with the most job openings for Entry Level Groundskeeper jobs include:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Groundskeeper job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $35,638 per year, or $17.1 per hour.

$21.04 - $26/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 24 days ago


University Of Southern California rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 53 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

98th of 617 rated colleges and universities


Job description

The University of Southern California (USC) department of Facilities Planning & Management (FPM) is seeking a Groundskeeper, Entry to join its team. About USC FPM FPM (formerly named Capital Construction & Development / Facilities Management Services) is responsible for planning, developing, and maintaining the breadth of the facilities at USC, and is also dedicated to creating a safe environment for our USC community. Woven into every service, safety is of upmost importance. As FPM, this group of innovative and talented professionals provide high quality facilities construction, operations and maintenance services at USC and serve as dedicated stewards of USC and FPM core values. FPM values employee recognition, accountability, collaboration, respect, and trust. Come and join the FPM team - a team that works as trusted partners shaping an environment of innovation and excellence. Apply today! The Groundskeeper, Entry: Performs a variety of entry-level landscape maintenance tasks including waste disposal (e.g., trash, recycling, compost) and other responsibilities. Participates in the landscape and grounds Pay for Knowledge and Skills Program including on-the-job training. Performs all appropriately leveled tasks and demonstrates proficiency as indicated in the Skill-Based Progression, independently or as part of a team, as assigned by the supervisor. May perform higher-level Skill-Based Progression tasks. May be trained by team leads and other employees on specific skills and tasks as needed. Job Accountabilities:
  • Operates and maintains battery-operated tools and other equipment (e.g., leaf blowers, hedge trimmers, lawnmowers).
  • May train with other employees in specific skills and tasks as required (e.g., safely operating battery-powered equipment).
  • Performs a variety of entry-level landscape maintenance tasks. Maintains condition and appearance of campus landscape, performing weed maintenance and trash/recycling/compost service.
  • Participates in plant installation. Installs plant material in variously sized pots and boxes, including California native plants.
  • Utilizes Facilities maintenance management system through handheld device to log in to work orders, charge time and input notes.
  • Encourages a workplace culture where all employees are valued, value others and have the opportunity to contribute through their ideas, words and actions, in accordance with the USC Code of Ethics.
  • Performs other duties as assigned or requested.
The University reserves the right to add or change duties at any time. Minimum Qualifications:
  • 6-months of experience in groundskeeping or similar duties
  • Basic knowledge of gardening and grounds maintenance.
  • Minimal familiarity with common plant species, landscape and cultivation requirements.
  • Familiarity with standard safety practices and equipment and other requirements for workplace safety.
  • Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing.
  • Knowledge of applicable laws, policies and principles.
  • Ability to collaborate with others and remain flexible to different tasks and responsibilities.
  • Ability to operate handheld battery-powered tools and non-power tools.
  • Ability to operate a computer and/or smart device for company applications.
  • Defensive driving skills.
  • Valid CA driver's license required with a minimum of 2 years' driving experience. Position will participate in the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) Pull Notice System. A copy of DMV record will be required as a final condition of employment. For more information, please visit the policy website.
Preferred Qualifications:
  • High school diploma, or equivalent
  • 1+ years of experience in groundskeeping or similar duties
  • Experience maintaining and troubleshooting battery-powered equipment, performing repairs such as changing edger blades and adding line trimmer strings.
  • Previous experience working at a higher education institution.
  • California Native Plant Landscaper.
Benefits
  • USC's Commitment to You: We offer an excellent package of benefits and programs including, but not limited to:
  • Tuition assistance for you and your family
  • Comprehensive health, dental and vision insurance options
  • 403b retirement account with matching 5% contribution by USC
  • 50% subsidy off Metro, LADOT, and Metrolink passes
The hourly range for this position is $21.04 - $26.00. When extending an offer of employment, the University of Southern California considers factors such as (but not limited to) the scope and responsibilities of the position, the candidate's work experience, education/training, key skills, internal peer equity, federal, state and local laws, contractual stipulations, grant funding, as well as external market and organizational considerations. #LI-KI1 Minimum Qualifications: 6-months of experience in groundskeeping or similar duties Basic knowledge of gardening and grounds maintenance. Minimal familiarity with common plant species, landscape and cultivation requirements. Familiarity with standard safety practices and equipment and other requirements for workplace safety. Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing. Knowledge of applicable laws, policies and principles. Ability to collaborate with others and remain flexible to different tasks and responsibilities. Ability to operate handheld battery-powered tools and non-power tools. Ability to operate a computer and/or smart device for company applications. Defensive driving skills. Valid CA driver's license required with a minimum of 2 years' driving experience. Position will participate in the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) Pull Notice System. A copy of DMV record will be required as a final condition of employment. For more information, please visit the policy website. Preferred Qualifications: High school diploma, or equivalent 1+ years of experience in groundskeeping or similar duties Experience maintaining and troubleshooting battery-powered equipment, performing repairs such as changing edger blades and adding line trimmer strings. Previous experience working at a higher education institution. California Native Plant Landscaper. USC is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law or USC policy. USC observes affirmative action obligations consistent with state and federal law. USC will consider for employment all qualified applicants with criminal records in a manner consistent with applicable laws and regulations, including the Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for employers and the Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance, and with due consideration for patient and student safety. Please refer to the Background Screening Policy Appendix D for specific employment screen implications for the position for which you are applying. We provide reasonable accommodations to applicants and employees with disabilities. Applicants with questions about access or requiring a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process should contact USC Human Resources by phone at (213) 821-8100, or by email at uschr@usc.edu. Inquiries will be treated as confidential to the extent permitted by law.
  • Notice of Non-discrimination
  • Employment Equity
  • Read USC's Clery Act Annual Security Report
  • USC is a smoke-free environment
  • Digital Accessibility
If you are a current USC employee, please apply to this USC job posting in Workday by copying and pasting this link into your browser: https://wd5.myworkday.com/usc/d/inst/1$9925/9925$150352.htmld

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About University of Southern California

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The University of Southern California (USC) is not a conventional company, but a private research university established in the heart of Los Angeles, CA, US. Founded in 1880, it's one of the oldest private research universities in California. USC operates in the education industry providing primary services of higher education, research, and community development. This prestigious institution offers a comprehensive array of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs across various disciplines, including the humanities, social sciences, and STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics). The University is guided by its commitment to foster creativity, innovation, leadership, and discovery through academic excellence.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Los Angeles , CA, US

Year founded

1880