Groundskeeper

Maintains the aesthetics and upkeep of the campus grounds and other offsite facilities to create a pleasant and safe environment for patients, visitors and staff.    This position must strive to support Advocate Health Care’s Facilities and Construction Department’s mission to serve the health needs of individuals, families and communities through a holistic philosophy rooted in our fundamental understanding of human beings as created in the image of God. Additionally, facilities are operated and maintained with the objectives of being 1) patient focused, 2) efficient, 3) safe, 4) sustainable and 5) cost effective.

Major Responsibilities:

• Landscape maintenance
  •     Collects and disposes of landscape debris in the appropriate refuse containers, per local municipality requirements.
  •     Mows, trims and edges all turf areas on a regular basis.
  •     Trims and prunes all trees and shrubs.
  •     Removes and replaces any dead areas of turf or landscape material.
  •     Installs and cares for flower beds.
  •     Cultivates soil and removes all weeds in the planting beds.
  •     Operates tools and equipment to perform tasks (lawn mowers, weed whippers, hedge trimmers, blowers, tractor and truck)
  •     Maintains a safe environment by cleaning up debris in all areas in which work is performed.
• Provides a clean, safe environment around the campus
  •     Operates tools and equipment to perform all tasks (snow blowers, salt spreaders, etc.).
  •     Sweeps doorways, patios, walks, parking garages and parking lots to remove debris.
  •     Empties all exterior trash cans.
  •     Removes snow and ice in a timely fashion.
  •     Applies snow and ice melting agents, as needed.
• Performs roadway and parking lot minor repairs and maintenance. Holiday decoration displays and various tasks for other departments.
  •     Monitors drainage areas and sewers to keep them free of debris.
  •     Installs and maintains signs, fences and barricades, as needed.
  •     Removes patio furniture as requested for various events and then is responsible to put furniture back in place.
  •     Installs exterior holiday decorations.
  •     Maintains landscaping tools and equipment to assure safe and efficient use of same.
  •     Provides support to departmental/staff relocations, as needed.
  •     Repairs minor damage to blacktop and concrete areas

Education/Experience Required:

• High school diploma or equivalent 1 year experience in a grounds/landscaping position.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities Required:

• Familiarity with tools and equipment of the trade. Must be able to operate Bobcat and other farm equipment.
• Valid drivers license.

Physical Requirements and Working Conditions:

• Exposure to hazardous chemicals and toxic substances. Ability to climb, push, pull, bend, and reach, as needed to perform essential job activities. Mobility to access work areas.
• Ability to lift up to 35 pounds without assistance. For patient lifts of over 35 pounds, or when patient is unable to assist with the lift, patient handling equipment is expected to be used, with at least one other associate, when available. Unique patient lifting/movement situations will be assessed on a case-by-case basis.

This job description indicates the general nature and level of work expected of the incumbent. It is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities required of the incumbent. Incumbent may be required to perform other related duties.