Groundskeeper

The Abbotsford School District is located on the traditional and unceded territory of the Stó:lo people, the Semá:th First Nation and Mathxwí First Nation. With this, we respect the longstanding relationships that Indigenous Nations have to this land, as they are the original caretakers.

Why Abbotsford?

Located under an hour from Vancouver, the Abbotsford School District is settled in the heart of the beautiful Fraser Valley and surrounded by spectacular mountain views.

Learn more about the Abbotsford community: tourismabbotsford.ca // thefraservalley

Why the Abbotsford School District?

Every day, in every classroom and office at Abbotsford School District, our employees provide a world-class, innovative educational experience for over 19,000 students. We provide a workplace that fosters creativity, inspires excellence, and challenges everyone to embrace growth.

Working in public education is both challenging and rewarding, but at the Abbotsford School District we truly believe that every one of our employees has the opportunity to help children learn, grow, and succeed.

POSITION SUMMARY:

Under the direction of the Foreman-Grounds, the Groundskeeper is responsible for preparation and maintenance of an annual District Grounds schedule for mowing, fertilizing, top dressing, aeration, overseeding, sodding, sprinklers-spring start-up and fall shut-down, and general clean-up of leaves, branches and other plant material.

The work involves the performance of a variety of tasks under limited supervision and in accordance with clearly established policies, procedures, regulations and codes. Judgment is exercised in handling new assignments and determining new work methods.

SPECIFIC ACCOUNTABILITIES:

Preparation and maintenance of an annual District Grounds schedule for mowing, fertilizing, top dressing, aeration, over-seeding, sodding, sprinklers - spring start-up and fall shut-down, and general clean-up of leaves, branches and other plant material.

Preparing estimates of labour, materials and time required to complete assignments, as assigned by the Foreman.

Participating in preventative maintenance schedule and preparing written reports of condition and providing recommendations for corrective action; maintaining written work records as required.

Submitting order/requisitions to Foreman for parts and supplies inventory and/or purchasing supplies on an as needed basis to complete work orders.

Ensuring equipment and supplies used to perform duties are stored and maintained appropriately.

Maintaining a working knowledge of district operational/personnel policies related to the position.

Ensuring compliance with district and government health and safety procedures and regulations within the Facilities Management department to minimize potential for accidents, injuries and hazards.

Undertaking related duties, as assigned consistent with this position.

QUALIFICATIONS, KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

Grade 12 diploma, or equivalent. A current/valid Class 3 BC Driver's License, and a valid Pesticide

Applicators Certificate. Willingness to complete the Certified Irrigation Technician - Level One and/or Two within six months of hire. At least five years of experience in irrigation and/or turf maintenance (golf courses, large green spaces or institutional fields). Additional requirements include:

Proven ability to use Microsoft Office programs, internet and internet-based programs, with the ability to learn other software programs;

Proven ability to determine, judge and select appropriate courses of action in accordance with established policies and procedures;

Understanding and awareness of cultural diversity;

Proven ability to multi-task, prioritize, self-motivate, and meet deadlines;

Proven ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing, and to provide service and relationship to the public and School District in a professional, respectful, positive and courteous manner;

Proven ability to establish and maintain positive, effective work relationships in a team environment at all times;

Proven ability to use tact and discretion and maintain confidentiality in matters pertaining to the School District;

Working knowledge of WHMIS and WorkSafe BC occupational health and safety regulations and the demonstrated ability to work in a manner that recognizes personal safety and the safety of others;

Ability to be flexible, adaptable and resilient to change;

Ability to explain complex or simple instructions or information clearly to others;

Working knowledge of the technical drawings, regulations and codes, standard practices, methods, materials and tools and equipment used in the trade;

Proven ability to perform physical activities such as lifting, pushing, pulling and moving materials, equipment and supplies.