GROUNDS SUPERVISOR 62154

5/1/89 H

This is the supervisory class in the series of classes for positions performing groundskeeping functions. Positions in this class supervise employees performing grounds planting and/or grounds maintenance duties at an agency or institution. This class is distinguished from the Grounds Lead Worker class by the supervisory responsibility for performance evaluation, hiring/firing, and disciplining employees. Positions in this class implement and supervise specific projects, or have overall responsibility for planning landscaping programs on a smaller scale. The Grounds Supervisor class is distinguished from the Landscape Supervisor class by the latter's responsibility for the production of master landscape plans for large and extensive groundskeeping or roadside development programs where subordinate supervisor's and lead workers provide guidance and implement specific projects according to established direction,

Complexity of Work: Performs work of considerable difficulty with the responsibility of planning activities and supervising the maintenance and preservation of the grounds. Selects the number and variety of nursery/greenhouse plants, and determines transplanting time, type of fertilizer and/or pesticide to be used, and composition of flower or plant beds. Inspects the ground to give directions regarding tree trimming, pruning and removal, hedge trimming, transplanting, mowing, raking, irrigating and fertilizing. Plans, designs, and supervises the construction of walks, fences or retaining walls. May also supervise the drainage, seeding and general maintenance of athletic fields and other special turf areas. Administrative duties include planning, scheduling, budgeting, and performing human resources functions.

Supervision Given: Supervises groundskeeping maintenance staff by evaluating employee performance and implementing the grounds program of an agency or institution.

Supervision Received: General direction is provided by a higher level position which outlines the results expected and reviews work upon completion. Consultation with the supervisor is expected only in unusual situations.

Scope: Activities affect the preservation, restoration, enhancement, and beautification of the grounds.

Impact of Actions: Work facilitates the planning and maintenance of the grounds of an agency or institution by supervising the employees responsible for the actual planting, trimming, pruning, mowing, transplanting, fertilizing, and other grounds activities. Improper supervision may infringe upon the preservation, restoration, enhancement, or beautification of the grounds.

Personal Contacts: May have frequent contacts with agriculture department specialists including ecologists, entomologists, biologists, agronomists, and others to determine causes associated with plant problems. Frequent internal and external contacts with staff, faculty and visitors regarding aesthetic considerations for the grounds areas; and with vendors and outside contractors regarding selection of appropriate items to purchase and plant for specific projects.

Knowledge: Considerable knowledge of technical and supervisory groundskeeping and horticulture functions; of principles and practices of supervision; and of related safety procedures and techniques. Working knowledge of various types of plant diseases; grounds care chemicals; the mechanical operation and maintenance of various types of groundskeeping equipment; and of budgeting principles.

Skills: Working skill in the operation and use of groundskeeping equipment.

Abilities: Demonstrated ability to supervise a variety of complex groundskeeping tasks performed by a large number of workers. Demonstrated ability to plan, schedule and evaluate work of others; and to read, write and maintain records.

QUALIFICATIONS GUIDE*

Licenses of Certification: Valid Virginia driver's license may be required.

Education or Training: High school graduation or equivalent. Some training in the safe application of grounds care chemicals.

Level and Type of Experience: Considerable experience in grounds/landscape maintenance/major lawn care/horticulture activities; experience supervising groundskeeping staff, scheduling work assignments, and budgeting funds; and experience in operating groundskeeping equipment.

An equivalent combination of training and experience indicating possession of the preceding knowledge and abilities may substitute for this education and experience.

This class was revised in April 1989 as a result of the Classification Review/Specification Update program and replaces the Grounds Supervisor specification dated March 1, 1952.