Grounds Lead

Grounds Lead
Hattiesburg, MS, United States
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req5270 Posted on: 4/21/2026 Grounds Lead The University of Southern Mississippi is currently accepting applications for the position of Grounds Lead. Position Details
Location Hattiesburg 118 College Drive
Hattiesburg, Mississippi, 39406-0001
United States
Division Grounds Maintenance
Position Type Staff
Employment Status Full Time
Grant Funded No
Salary Range 14.00 - 14.00
Pay Grade N03 Posting Close Date Open Until Filled Special Instructions to Applicants
Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis without the need for visa sponsorship. The University will not sponsor applicants for work visas (e.g., H-1B). Job Summary
Provides direct supervision over several Groundskeepers engaged in the day-to-day maintenance of an assigned area of the campus grounds assuring that crews are promptly on the job with necessary tools and equipment. Primary Duties and Responsibilities Supervises groundskeepers and participates in grounds care activities such as mowing lawns, gardening, landscaping, watering, and cleaning grounds to ensure that groundskeepers are transported to work areas and proper equipment, tools, and materials are available to accomplish assigned tasks.
Consult with the Superintendent each morning and often during the day on work progress and new assignments.
Supervises and participates in the service, maintenance, and repair of tractors, lawnmowers, edgers, spray equipment, string trimmers, backpack blowers, and other ground equipment.
Supervises and participates in cleaning grounds daily, picking up trash and garbage, and maintaining a clean and litter-free campus. Carries out supervisory responsibilities in a timely, fair, and objective manner.
Supervises and participates in such general tasks as leaf removal, mulching shrubs, and watering shrubs and trees, topdressing, fertilizing, seeding lawns, and putting out pesticides, insecticides, and fungicides.
Assists in athletic grounds duties as assigned
Performs other duties as assigned. Minimum Qualifications
High school diploma or general education degree (GED); Two years related experience with grounds or landscape work. Valid Driver's License. Knowledge, Skills & Abilities Skill in giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
Ability to maintain a positive and professional demeanor in challenging situations.
Ability to work effectively within a complex organization structure.
Ability to communicate and interact effectively with a diverse group of people.
Skill in using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems.
Skill in managing one's own time and the time of others and ability to set priorities and complete assignments on time.
Skill in completing assignments accurately and with attention to detail.
Ability to train, lead and motivate others.
Skill in the use of ground-keeping hand tools and equipment, in the operation of motorized and gas-operated equipment.
Skill in the operation, maintenance, and repair of applicable equipment and tools.
Preferred Qualifications
One year of supervisory experience. About The University of Southern Mississippi
Since our founding in 1910, The University of Southern Mississippi has remained dedicated to preparing students for success. We deliver programs to more than 13,000 students in Hattiesburg and Long Beach, at teaching and research sites across the Mississippi Gulf Coast, as well as online. We are a community-engaged Carnegie R1 university, earning distinction as one of the nation's leading research institutions. Southern Miss is known for pioneering work in polymer science, ocean science, spectator sports safety and security, and bringing language to children with communication disorders. We are also a national leader in a broad range of disciplines, including cybersecurity, hydrography, nutrition, aquaculture, kinesiology, and economic development, among others. We produce graduates ready to enter fields that are leading the way in emerging technologies through programs such as computer engineering, information technology, and ocean engineering. We're developing the next generation of business leaders, while also responding to critical workforce shortages by producing skilled professionals in education and nursing. With a tradition of excellence in the arts, we are one of only 36 public institutions in the nation accredited in four major areas of the arts. Home to the Golden Eagles, our student-athletes compete in 17 NCAA Division I sports. With a culture marked by passion and persistence, Southern Miss is delivering graduates who are ready for life. For more information, visit www.usm.edu. The University of Southern Mississippi is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment. EOE/VETS/DISABILITY.