Job Description

The Supervisor of Grounds - Biddeford Campus oversees all aspects of campus grounds operations, including landscaping, snow removal, stormwater management, and event support. This position manages a team of approximately eight staff and supports the University's mission by maintaining a safe, sustainable, and aesthetically pleasing campus environment.

The Supervisor of Grounds plays a key role in UNE's sustainability initiatives by promoting environmentally responsible landscaping practices, efficient water use, and stormwater management strategies.

About the University of New England

UNE is Maine's largest private university, with two beautiful coastal campuses in Maine, a one-of-a-kind study-abroad campus in Tangier, Morocco, and an array of flexible online offerings. In an uncommonly welcoming and supportive community, we offer hands-on learning, empowering students to positively impact a world full of challenges. We are the state's top provider of health professionals and home to Maine's only medical and dental colleges, a variety of other interprofessionally aligned health care programs, and nationally recognized programs in the marine sciences, the natural and social sciences, business, the humanities, and the arts.

Benefits Overview

Multiple health and dental plan options, plus vision coverage. Up to

8%

retirement plan match. Generous leave time, including vacation, sick, and personal time, and 12+ holidays per year.

Educational benefits

: + UNE tuition waiver for employees, spouses, and domestic partners.
+ UNE tuition waiver for dependents of employees with 1 year of full-time service.
- 50% tuition reduction if less than 1 year of full-time service.

For more information about our outstanding benefits, please visit:

UNE

Benefits Overview

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Responsibilities

Leadership and Supervision

Supervises approximately eight Groundskeepers, including an Assistant Lead, ensuring coverage and quality across 250 acres of serviceable grounds. Oversees hiring, onboarding, training, performance evaluation, and professional development. Promotes a positive, safety-focused team culture.

Operations Management

Directs daily, seasonal, and special event grounds operations. Develops and maintains work schedules and standards of quality and productivity. Oversees the use of the Computerized Maintenance Management System (CMMS) for work orders and preventive maintenance. Evaluates contractor performance and determines when to outsource services.

Budget and Resource Management

Assists in developing and managing the annual operating budget. Purchases supplies, materials, and equipment; maintains accurate inventory and ensures proper maintenance. Reviews and approves timecards and overtime requests.

Safety and Compliance

Ensures all employees receive and comply with safety training, including equipment use and chemical handling. Maintains Safety Data Sheets (SDS) and ensures compliance with OSHA and UNE safety policies. Oversees stormwater management inspections, vendor coordination, and reporting.

Collaboration and Communication

Coordinates with Facilities Management, Housekeeping, Athletics, Conferences, Human Resources, and other departments. Represents UNE at professional development meetings and APPA events.

Other Responsibilities

Performs or oversees small construction and repair tasks as needed. Participates in emergency response and snow operations, including nights and weekends as required. Perform other related duties as assigned.

Qualifications

High school diploma or equivalent and a minimum of five years of progressively responsible experience in grounds maintenance, landscaping, or related field or a combination of or a combination of education and experience from which comparable knowledge and skills are acquired.Demonstrated experience managing 20+ acres of landscaped and athletic grounds or equivalent institutional property. Proven experience in budget development and cost tracking for grounds operations and materials. Proficiency in operation and maintenance of commercial landscaping and snow removal equipment. Knowledge of irrigation systems, including programming, troubleshooting, and repairs. Experience implementing integrated pest management (IPM) and sustainable landscaping practices. Demonstrated ability to supervise and train a staff of 8-10 employees, including annual reviews and scheduling. Experience developing preventive maintenance schedules and monitoring service standards across all campus areas. Proven record of meeting project deadlines and maintaining grounds within budget. Ability to coordinate with Facilities, Athletics, and Events staff to meet service needs for campus functions. Working knowledge of OSHA safety standards and equipment safety protocols. Documented record of reducing incidents or improving safety compliance through staff training or operational procedures. Ability to perform the essential functions, with or without reasonable accommodation. Essential functions may include lifting and carrying up to 50 pounds, standing, walking, bending, and operating landscaping equipment for extended periods of time, as well as working outdoors in various weather conditions.

Preferred Qualifications

Certified Grounds Manager (CGM) or equivalent professional certification. Experience managing athletic field maintenance programs to NCAA or comparable standards. Experience implementing sustainability initiatives (e.g., native plant use, water reduction, composting programs). Associate degree or coursework in horticulture, turf management, or related field. Maine Board of Pesticides Control Master Commercial Applicator License (or ability to obtain within first year). Experience using CMMS software (e.g., MaintainX). Knowledge of APPA standards and best practices for campus facilities.

EEO Statement Summary

Consistent with federal and state law and University policy, the University of New England is committed to the fundamental concept of equal opportunity for all of the members of the University community. The University prohibits, and will not tolerate, discrimination in employment, the provision of academic services or in any other area of University life based on race, color, sex, physical or mental disability, religion, age, ancestry, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, ethnicity, genetic information, HIV status, or status as a veteran. Prohibited bias factors should not motivate decisions regarding students, employees, applicants for admission, applicants for employment, contractors, volunteers or participants in and/or users of institutional programs, services, and activities.

COVID Vaccination Statement (PLEASE NOTE)

Employees in clinical settings must meet the State of Maine's immunization requirements for clinical activity.