Groundskeeper

As a Groundskeeper at Otterbein, your main responsibilities include mowing grass using hand-propelled or riding mowers, trimming shrubbery and trees, and maintaining the upkeep of our beautiful campus grounds. You'll also handle snow removal in winter, assist in planting and caring for flowers and trees, and conduct routine maintenance on landscape equipment. Every day offers a chance to contribute to our campus's appearance and safety!

To apply for the Groundskeeper position at Otterbein, it’s preferred that you have a High School Diploma or GED. A valid Ohio driver’s license is a must, and having a CDL or Pesticide License is favored. Ideally, applicants should have 1 to 5 years of experience in grounds maintenance or related work to succeed in this role.

As a Groundskeeper at Otterbein, you will receive a comprehensive benefits package including medical insurance with free virtual doctor visits, vision and dental insurance, and a robust retirement savings plan with a 401(k) or 403(b) and company match. You'll also enjoy paid time off that accrues immediately, life insurance, and access to an employee assistance program and tuition assistance.

Snow removal is an essential responsibility for the Groundskeeper at Otterbein, especially during winter months. You will use power equipment like plows and snow blowers or manually shovel snow to ensure that roadways, walkways, and parking lots are safe and accessible for everyone on campus.

Absolutely! The Groundskeeper position at Otterbein is not only about maintaining the present but also about growing your skills and potentially advancing within the organization. With on-the-job training and opportunities for professional development, you can build a meaningful career in grounds management.

When answering this question, highlight any relevant past roles you’ve held in grounds maintenance. Be specific by mentioning tasks like lawn care, plant care, or snow removal, illustrating your experience with examples that showcase your skills.

Safety is crucial in grounds maintenance. You can answer this by explaining how you follow protocols, wear protective gear, and maintain equipment regularly to prevent accidents. Providing real-life examples of how you've managed risks will strengthen your answer.

Share your familiarity with different types of lawn care equipment and how you’ve operated it in various settings. Discuss any routine maintenance tasks you perform and emphasize your ability to troubleshoot any issues that arise.

Prepare for this question by explaining your proactive approach to managing unexpected weather. Discuss the importance of staying informed about weather forecasts and your readiness to mobilize quickly to ensure safe outdoor environments on campus.

Think about what resonates with you in groundskeeping—whether it's aesthetics, safety, or ecological awareness—and articulate your passion clearly. Highlight how you ensure that the grounds are not only beautiful but also functional and safe for all visitors.

Effective prioritization is key in grounds maintenance. Explain how you assess the most critical tasks based on seasons, safety, and the needs of the campus. Perhaps utilize past experiences to illustrate how you've managed large areas efficiently.

Discuss your adaptability in challenging weather conditions and any strategies you’ve used in the past to ensure work continues safely. Emphasize your ability to reassess priorities as needed and maintain focus on essential tasks.

You can answer this by outlining the importance of following directions carefully, wearing appropriate safety gear, and ensuring that you only apply as needed to mitigate risks. Relating this to your familiarity with guidelines will reflect your professional approach.

If applicable, discuss your experience training others by explaining your teaching style—whether through hands-on demonstrations or creating checklists. This shows leadership potential and your commitment to sharing knowledge in grounds maintenance.

This question is an opportunity to express your genuine interest in the institution. Discuss specific aspects of Otterbein that resonate with your values, whether it's their community engagement, commitment to sustainability, or positive workplace culture.