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Grounds Supervisor

Company:
Syracuse University
Location:
Syracuse, NY, 13201
Posted:
September 30, 2025
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Description:

The Grounds Supervisor is responsible for supervising and directing nonexempt employees within the Grounds Department.

This role oversees turf and grass management, athletic fields, tree trimming, mowing, trash clean-up, snow removal, and road maintenance across the University's 14 miles of roads and 21 miles of sidewalks.

The supervisor will plan, coordinate, and execute landscaping and construction efforts while ensuring compliance with safety standards, environmental regulations, and University policies.

Education and Experience * Associate's degree in business administration * CDL Class B license required.

* Minimum of 5 years of management experience.

* Minimum of 5 years of union leadership experience.

* Athletic field maintenance experience.

* Experience in all facets of road construction including milling, paving, concrete work and storm sewer work.

* Ability to operate and maintain a variety of specialized equipment, including large road sweepers, vacuum trucks, bucket trucks, and other heavy machinery, ensuring safe, efficient, and compliant execution of field operations.

* Profiency with Maximo and Microsoft Oce Suite.

* Strong verbal and written communication skills.

Skills and Knowledge * Large landscape and construction project planning and execution.

* Snow removal operations using a variety of equipment including 10-wheel dump trucks with wings, payloaders, skidsteers and other heavy equipment.

* Competence in conflict resolution, crisis management, and compliance with safety codes.

* Ability to research, bid, and purchase maintenance equipment.

* Ability to leverage AI tools and machine learning models to optimize business processes, enhance decision-making, and drive data-informed strategies across departments.

Responsibilities Leadership & Supervision * Plan, interpret, and execute work within departmental guidelines to achieve objectives * Develop and adjust work schedules to meet changing priorities.

* Train, mentor, and manage staff by setting expectations, monitoring performance, and enforcing policies.

* Provide coaching, counseling, and discipline as needed.

* Apply leadership experience gained through union leadership and management roles.

Grounds & Turf Management * Oversee administrative and operational functions related to grounds upkeep and turf/grass maintenance.

* Supervise athletic eld maintenance, corrective maintenance, and preventive programs.

* Manage outdoor landscaping including mowing, edging, hedge control, bed design, tree trimming and drainage systems.

* Direct snow plowing operations, including plowing, salting and operating a variety of heavy equipment.

Road & Infrastructure Projects * Oversee and participate in road construction projects including milling, paving, concrete work, and storm sewer installation.

* Identify, assist with, and coordinate repairs for water main breaks, including excavation, repair support, and post-repair landscape restoration.

* Plan, construct, and maintain landscape and roadway drainage systems to prevent erosion, flooding, and water damage.

* Coordinate with internal departments and outside contractors to ensure timely and safe project completion.

Project Coordination * Schedule and coordinate grounds projects, including special events and facilities support.

* Work with Athletics, Recreation Services, and other departments to meet facility and event needs.

Regulatory Compliance & Technology * Ensure compliance with ADA, city, state, and federal codes as well as University safety standards.

* Promote safe work practices and proper use of equipment.

* Use Maximo for order management and reporting.

* Utilize Microsoft Oce Suite for planning, scheduling, and documentation.

Physical Requirements * Ability to perform and oversee outdoor work year-round.

* Must be able to meet the physical demands of grounds and maintenance work.

Tools/Equipment Not Applicable Application Instructions In addition to completing an online application, please attach a resume and cover letter.

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