Assistant Manager, Grounds & Landscaping

Assistant Manager, Grounds & Landscaping Asheville, NC Job Details Full-time 1 day ago Qualifications Hardscape Biology Tree trimming Budget management Preventative hardware maintenance Operations management Landscape maintenance Removing debris Equipment repair Outdoor work Student recruitment Heavy equipment operation Expense management Staff scheduling Maintenance Mid-level Bachelor's degree in biology High school diploma or GED Driver's License Supervising experience Bachelor's degree Staff training Organizational skills Purchasing Environmental Studies Engine repair Landscape design Tractor servicing Crew management Leadership 2 years Operational budget management Time management Mechanical systems repair Staff development Full Job Description Warren Wilson College seeks an Assistant Manager of Grounds and Landscaping to help care for and maintain the core campus landscape. Warren Wilson is a national liberal arts college known for integrating academics, work, and service, with a strong commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship. Working closely with the Manager of Grounds and Landscaping, the Assistant Manager helps manage day-to-day grounds operations while supporting longer-term planning efforts. The position blends hands-on landscape work with leadership responsibilities, including supervising and training a student crew of 25 to 30 workers with a wide range of experience levels. This role helps maintain campus plantings, lawns, trees, hardscape elements, and shared outdoor spaces, ensuring the campus remains welcoming, functional, and ecologically sound. Qualified candidates will bring a minimum of two years of experience in grounds maintenance or landscape design, along with at least one year in a leadership or supervisory capacity. Candidates should demonstrate knowledge of ecological landscaping practices and the ability to operate and maintain grounds equipment. Strong interpersonal skills and experience working effectively with students or diverse populations are essential. Interested individuals should read further to learn more about the college and the responsibilities for this full-time, non-exempt position. Applicants are required to submit a resume and cover letter that describes how your previous experience will contribute to the mission and Progressive Promise (https://www.warren-wilson.edu/about/progressive/) of Warren Wilson College. First consideration will be given to candidates who apply by May 4, 2026. All applications must be received electronically. Please be aware no relocation assistance is available for this position.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

High school diploma or general education degree (GED). Two years of grounds maintenance/landscape design experience. One to Two years in leadership/supervisory capacity. Knowledge of ecological landscaping practices. Demonstrated ability with interpersonal, time management and organizational skills. Evidence of the ability to work with a wide range of students to teach necessary skills and offer positive reinforcement and feedback. Demonstrated ability or certifications to operate heavy equipment. Evidence of acquired mechanical skills related to maintenance and repair of tractors and small engine equipment. Demonstrated experience working effectively with people from all backgrounds and perspectives. Valid NC driver's license.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

Bachelor's degree in biology, environmental studies or related field. North Carolina pesticide application license (can be obtained upon hire).

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Assists in grounds maintenance and landscaping projects which involve the design and maintenance of all campus plantings using ecological landscape design principles. Turf management of campus lawn maintenance other than athletic fields. Tree inspection and care, and when necessary, oversee tree trimming and removal by contractors or student crews. Leaf and litter removal. Hardscape design and maintenance. Assists in the development and updates of a campus grounds and landscaping plan with input from the Manager of Grounds and Landscaping and consideration of other relevant stakeholders. Maintains communication with Maintenance, Housekeeping, and Public Safety in regards to the. intersection of grounds maintenance and landscaping with those functional areas. Collaborates with the Manager of Grounds and Landscaping and Work Program Office on the selection and recruitment of student crew members, and provides orientation and training for all student workers to support their professional and educational development. Creates, maintains and monitors student work schedules and timecards. Under the direction of the Manager of Grounds and Landscaping, works within a designated operational budget, work budget and identifies specific areas for growth and equipment needs. Manages monthly expenses and complies with college purchasing procedures under the supervision of the Manager of Grounds and Landscaping. Identifies and prioritizes opportunities to promote sustainability through department operations. Supports a preventive maintenance program that includes training needs, procedures, tool & equipment needs, parts needs, and supporting documentation. Develops ways to integrate work, service and academic learning into the crew members' curriculum. Attend WPO supervisor orientations and retreats, and collaborate with the Manager of Grounds and Landscaping to problem solve any student crew issues that may arise. Performs other duties as needed to fulfill the College's mission of work, service and academics. Other duties as assigned.

Our mission:

Warren Wilson College's distinctive approach to education intentionally integrates academics, work, and community engagement to cultivate curiosity, empathy, and integrity. We empower graduates to pursue meaningful careers and lead purposeful lives dedicated to a just, equitable, and sustainable world. We are committed to a culture of educational access and to ensuring that students and employees from a diverse range of identities and experiences will thrive in this community. We seek and support an academically and culturally diverse faculty and staff with a genuine interest in our innovative approach to education and focus on inclusive excellence, as well as a willingness to fully participate in the life of the College. We welcome applications from individuals who have experience working with diverse student populations. Warren Wilson College is proud to be an equal opportunity employer.