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University Grounds Jobs (NOW HIRING)

GROUNDS KEEPER

Cleveland, TN · On-site

$11.75 - $15/hr

Responsibilities include the maintenance of University grounds, minor repair to grounds equipment, and other grounds keeping tasks to maintain a safe and attractive environment. Grounds personnel, in ...

Groundskeeper

Montgomery, AL · On-site

$12.75 - $16.50/hr

This position provides maintenance of university grounds and landscaper installation. Auburn University at Montgomery reserves the right once interviewing has begun to stop accepting applications.

Groundskeeper

Dallas, PA · On-site

$17/hr

Misericordia University Grounds Department invites candidates to apply for our Groundskeeper Position. The University Groundskeeper plays a crucial role in maintaining the aesthetic and environmental ...

Groundskeeper III

Cleveland, MS · On-site

$13.25 - $16.75/hr

Picks up trash and debris from University grounds, parking areas, walks, streets, sports fields, ditches, culverts, and catch basins. Collects and removes debris and trash from campus and disposes of ...

Groundskeeper III

Cleveland, MS · On-site

$13.25 - $16.75/hr

Picks up trash and debris from University grounds, parking areas, walks, streets, sports fields, ditches, culverts, and catch basins. Collects and removes debris and trash from campus and disposes of ...

Groundskeeper (4020)

Marietta, GA · On-site

$14.50 - $18.50/hr

Under direct supervision, this position supports the Facilities Management- Grounds Department by maintaining the landscape of university property which includes irrigation maintenance, mowing ...

PT Groundskeeper (3990)

Marietta, GA · On-site

$14.50 - $18.50/hr

Under direct supervision, this position supports the Facilities Management- Grounds Department by maintaining the landscape of university property which includes irrigation maintenance, mowing ...

Groundskeeper

Storm Lake, IA · On-site

$13.50 - $17.25/hr

Monitor grounds conditions and report maintenance or safety concerns to supervisors * Follow established safety procedures and university policies Required Qualifications * Demonstrated basic ...

Groundskeeper

Storm Lake, IA · On-site

$13.50 - $17.25/hr

Monitor grounds conditions and report maintenance or safety concerns to supervisors * Follow established safety procedures and university policies Required Qualifications * Demonstrated basic ...

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University Grounds information

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How much do university grounds jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for university grounds 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.

What is a university grounds worker?

University grounds workers are responsible for maintaining and caring for the outdoor areas on a university campus. Their duties typically include landscaping, mowing lawns, planting flowers and trees, removing litter, and ensuring pathways are safe and accessible. They play a crucial role in creating a welcoming and safe environment for students, faculty, and visitors. Grounds workers may also assist with outdoor event setup and respond to weather-related issues, such as snow removal.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as a university groundskeeper?

To thrive as a University Groundskeeper, you need knowledge of horticulture, landscaping techniques, and maintenance procedures, often supported by experience or vocational training in grounds management. Familiarity with landscaping equipment, irrigation systems, and safety protocols is typically required. Attention to detail, reliability, and strong teamwork skills help ensure campus grounds are safe, attractive, and well-maintained. These competencies are crucial for creating a positive and functional environment that supports the university community.

What are common challenges faced by university grounds staff, and how can they be managed?

University Grounds staff often face challenges such as maintaining large, diverse landscapes within tight schedules, dealing with varying weather conditions, and coordinating with other campus departments for events or construction projects. Effective communication, attention to seasonal maintenance planning, and adaptability are key to managing these demands. Many grounds teams also use specialized equipment and sustainable practices to ensure the campus remains safe, functional, and visually appealing throughout the year.

What is the difference between University Grounds vs University Maintenance Worker?

AspectUniversity GroundsUniversity Maintenance Worker
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; certifications in landscaping or horticulture are a plusHigh school diploma or equivalent; certifications in general maintenance or HVAC may be preferred
Work EnvironmentOutdoor campus areas, gardens, lawns, and landscaping sitesIndoor and outdoor campus facilities, including buildings, electrical, plumbing, and HVAC systems
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, colleges, and educational institutions focusing on landscape and outdoor upkeepUniversities and colleges maintaining building infrastructure and facilities

University Grounds staff primarily focus on outdoor landscaping, lawn care, and maintaining campus outdoor spaces. In contrast, University Maintenance Workers handle indoor repairs, building systems, and general facility upkeep. Both roles are essential for campus operations but differ in scope and environment.

What cities are hiring for University Grounds jobs?

Cities with the most University Grounds job openings:

What states have the most University Grounds jobs?

States with the most job openings for University Grounds jobs include:

Infographic showing various University Grounds job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 33% Full Time, and 67% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $35,638 per year, or $17.1 per hour.

TES Groundskeeper

Auburn University, AL • On-site

Auburn University
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 1 - 5K employees

$13/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 26 days ago


Auburn University rating

6.5

Company rating: 6.5 out of 10

Based on 45 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

520th of 633 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Overview
Under direct supervision, performs basic-level landscape functions to maintain and improve University grounds.
Temporary Employment Services (TES), a unit of the Auburn University Department of Human Resources, is an in-house support center established to meet the temporary employment needs of the university. TES provides qualified and dedicated temporary employees in a wide variety of occupations to meet the staffing needs throughout the campus. Temporary employees are hired for a variety of reasons with the most common being:
  • Assistance in the place of a regular employee who is absent for a specified period of time
  • Additional assistance during periods of abnormal or peak workloads
  • Assistance with special projects
  • Seasonal work
  • Emergencies

If you are looking for an employment opportunity, TES is a great way to showcase your professional skills and assist Auburn University while gaining valuable work experience within higher education.
AU students are not eligible for TES.
Responsibilities
  • Maintains University grounds using hand tools such as a shovel, pick, and rake, as well as power tools including a weed eater, edger, hedge trimmer, tiller, and blower.
  • Operates a push and riding mower to mow grass and operates utility task vehicles to perform work.
  • Performs basic landscape-related duties on University grounds to include weed pulling, plant watering, pine straw/mulch installation, and sod installation.
  • Provides debris removal with cleaning and litter control equipment to keep University grounds, streets, and parking lots free of dirt, leaves, trash, and other debris. Maintains University hardscapes through the use of a pressure washer.
  • Maintains and cleans hand and power tools and equipment including, but not limited to, checking fluid levels and blade sharpness.
  • May be responsible for meeting and maintaining training and certifications requirements as outlined by the applicable department's training and credentialing requirements.

Qualifications
High school diploma and 2 years of experience in groundskeeping operations.
Minimum Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
Working knowledge of plant materials.
Basic landscape-related skills.
Ability to safely utilize and operate landscape tools and equipment.
Why Work at Auburn?
  • Life-Changing Impact: Our work changes lives through research, instruction, and outreach, making a lasting impact on our students, our communities, and the world.
  • Culture of Excellence:We are committed to leveraging our strengths, resources, collaboration, and innovation as a top employer in higher education.
  • We're Here for You:Auburn offers generous benefits, educational opportunities, and a culture of support and work/life balance.
  • Sweet Home Alabama:The Auburn/Opelika area offers southern charm, vibrant downtown scenes, top-ranked schools, and easy access to Atlanta, Birmingham, and the Gulf of Mexico beaches.
  • A Place for Everyone: Auburn is committed to fostering an environment where all faculty, staff, and students are welcomed, valued, respected, and engaged.
  • Ready to lead and shape the future of higher education? Apply today! War Eagle!

Equal Opportunity Compliance Statement
It is our policy to provide equal employment and education opportunities for all individuals without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, age, disability, protected veteran status, genetic information, or any other classification protected by applicable law. Please visit the Office of Equal Opportunity Compliance's website to learn more.

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