The Grounds Worker position is responsible for the maintenance and improvements to all Academy grounds, athletic fields, hardscape systems, and related equipment throughout the campus. This position is a full-time non-exempt position. Hours worked are 6:30am - 3:00pm, Monday through Friday with occasional evenings and weekend hours for emergency response.

The Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy (IMSA) is committed to an equitable, diverse and inclusive teaching and learning environment.  Through a model of Equity and Excellence, IMSA has committed to advancing equity in STEM education and representation and creating a diverse, inclusive community of global citizens who can realize their full potential, and execute our mission to advance the human condition.

This Equity and Excellence Model is the intentional integration of Cultural Competence, Diversity, Equity, Equity-Minded Frame, Excellence and Inclusion into every facet of the Academy, with the understanding that it is an active and ongoing process involving structures, processes and people and not an isolated initiative. 

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. 

• Maintain, mow, trim, weed, seed, edge, and repair turf 
• Maintain, mow, top dress, and mark athletic fields 
• Participate in winter snow and ice removal operations to ensure a safe environment
• Required to report to work during emergency conditions, including periodic evening and/or weekend hours, to perform different duties as necessary
• Required to be scheduled on call from October to April to aid in snow emergencies
• Participate in the planting, weeding, watering, and treatments of various beds 
• Assist in tree trimming, thinning, and removal 
• Posses, or obtain within 90 days of employment, an Illinois Pesticide Applicator or Operator License  
• Apply chemical herbicides and pesticides appropriately 
• Operate equipment and tools appropriately 
• Maintain, clean, and repair equipment and tools daily
• Inspect Academy owned vehicle and perform minor maintenance daily  
• Pickup and remove outdoor trash daily 
• Perform minor cement or asphalt patching on sidewalks and parking lots
• Wear/use PPE as instructed 
• Monitor site conditions, schedule work accordingly with supervisors, and report any unsafe condition to supervisors
• Communicate effectively with supervisors and all members of the staff/faculty
• Complete time worked reports daily 
• Support the work of building maintenance staff occasionally 
• Perform all other related duties as assigned

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• High school diploma or equivalent
• Prior grounds experience
• Knowledge of small engine repair
• Ability to read and understand all safety-related information and general instructions in the use of all chemicals and equipment
• Valid driver’s license 
• Ability to adapt to a work environment that requires learning and acquisition of skills to successfully fulfill the performance responsibilities and duties of the position
• Ability to lift and carry 50 lbs. 

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
The preferred qualifications for this position include:

• Four years grounds experience
• Associate Degree
• Illinois Pesticide Applicators or Operator License

WORKING CONDITIONS AND PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

While performing the essential functions of this job, the incumbent is regularly required to lift, move, or carry objects over 50 pounds; ascend or descend ladders, stairs, scaffolding, and ramps.  Should be able to utilize feet, legs, hands, and arms; maintain body equilibrium to prevent falling when walking, standing, crouching, or navigating narrow, slippery, or erratically moving surfaces; bend body downward and forward by bending spine and legs; move about on hands and knees or hands and feet, use hands to finger, or feel objects; and to reach with hands and arms. 

While performing the essential functions of this position the employee is frequently exposed to fumes, orders, or airborne particles, toxic or caustic substances, excessive noise, and dampness/humidity.

The work environment is usually in good conditions, but the incumbent could be exposed to harsh weather and long hours in emergency situations

Employees are required to wear uniforms supplied by the IMSA.  Uniform appearance must be clean and in good wear. No holes, tears or cutoffs will be allowed.  Solid soled shoes must be worn.  No deviance from this policy is permitted without written documentation from a physician or Facilities Operations Manager.

COMPENSATION:

This is a full-time, non-exempt, employment-at-will position.  Hourly rate is $18.49/hr. IMSA offers a comprehensive state benefits package (major medical, dental, and vision) with rates found here and a retirement plan through the State University Retirement System (SURS).

The Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy provides equal employment opportunities to all applicants and employees without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, pregnancy, disability, genetic information, marital status, political affiliation, amnesty, arrest record, military status, unfavorable discharge from the military or status as a covered veteran in accordance with applicable federal, state and local laws.