Position Summary The Grounds & Facilities Maintenance Specialist is responsible for helping maintain the Carolina Horse Park's 317-acre event facility in a safe, clean, attractive, and event-ready condition. This is a hands-on position for someone who takes pride in outdoor work, enjoys working with equipment and tools, and understands the importance of maintaining a professional appearance at a premier equestrian competition and event venue. The successful candidate will be dependable, safety-conscious, detail-oriented, and able to work both independently and as part of a team. Because the role involves regular interaction with event organizers, exhibitors, vendors, volunteers, guests, and Park staff, a consistently professional and helpful attitude is essential. Essential Responsibilities Grounds Maintenance  Operate commercial zero-turn mowers, string trimmers, edgers, blowers, and other grounds-maintenance equipment.  Mow and maintain lawns, fields, roadways, walkways, parking areas, and event spaces.  Trim vegetation, remove debris, maintain landscaped areas, and perform general grounds cleanup.  Assist with maintaining grounds to established Park standards before, during, and after events.  Identify unsafe conditions or areas requiring repair or additional maintenance. Facilities & General Maintenance  Perform routine facility maintenance and minor repairs.  Assist with basic painting, light carpentry, pressure washing, cleaning, and general upkeep.  Use common hand and power tools safely and appropriately.  Assist with maintenance of fences, gates, buildings, equipment, signage, and other Park infrastructure.  Keep work areas, storage areas, equipment, and tools clean and organized. Event Preparation & Support  Assist with preparing the Park for horse shows, competitions, rentals, special events, and other activities.  Perform pre-event grounds and facility inspections.  Assist with event setup, teardown, debris removal, and venue turnover.  Respond to maintenance needs that arise during events.  Help ensure event areas remain clean, safe, attractive, and client ready. Customer & Guest Service  Interact professionally and courteously with clients, competitors, exhibitors, vendors, volunteers, and guests.  Respond to reasonable site-related requests with a helpful, solutions-oriented attitude.  Represent the Carolina Horse Park positively through professional appearance, conduct, and communication. Safety & Equipment  Follow all Park safety policies and procedures.  Conduct routine inspections of equipment before use and report mechanical problems or safety concerns promptly.  Properly operate, clean, maintain, and store equipment and tools.  Use appropriate personal protective equipment when required.  Maintain awareness of people, horses, vehicles, and other activities while operating equipment.  Immediately report hazardous conditions, property damage, or injuries to the appropriate supervisor. Qualifications  Previous experience in grounds maintenance, landscaping, facilities maintenance, construction, farming, equine facilities, or a related field preferred.  Demonstrated ability to safely operate commercial lawn equipment, including zero-turn mowers, string trimmers, edgers, and blowers.  Working knowledge of common hand and power tools.  Basic mechanical, carpentry, painting, or general maintenance skills preferred.  Strong work ethic and dependable attendance.  Ability to work independently and prioritize daily assignments.  Detail-oriented with pride in producing clean, professional results.  Positive, cooperative, and professional approach to working with others.  Comfortable interacting with the public, clients, vendors, and event participants.  Valid driver's license and reliable transportation.  Experience working around horses or at an equestrian facility is a plus, but not required. Physical & Environmental Requirements This position requires regular outdoor physical activity and the ability to work in varying weather conditions. The employee must be able to:  Lift and carry up to 50 pounds.  Stand, walk, bend, stoop, kneel, and work for extended periods.  Operate lawn and grounds-maintenance equipment for extended periods.  Work safely around horses, vehicles, heavy equipment, and large numbers of people during events.  Work outdoors in hot, cold, wet, and changing weather conditions. Work Schedule The position may be structured as either:

Full-Time:

Approximately 40 hours per week, with a schedule based on Park operational and event needs.

Hourly/Part-Time:

Consistent scheduled shifts based on Park operational and event requirements. Weekends, early morning, or occasional evening work may be required during major events. What We Offer  Competitive hourly compensation.  Health insurance options for eligible full-time employees.  Outdoor work in a unique equestrian event environment.  A collaborative and supportive team.  Variety in daily responsibilities and projects.  The opportunity to play a direct role in maintaining one of North Carolina's premier equestrian event facilities. Our Ideal Candidate The ideal candidate is someone who shows up, works hard, pays attention to the details, takes care of equipment, and takes pride in the appearance of the Park. We value people who are dependable, respectful, willing to help, and comfortable doing whatever is needed to get the job done safely and professionally. A positive attitude and a team-first, no-drama approach are essential. Equal Opportunity The Carolina Horse Park Foundation is an equal opportunity employer and considers qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or other protected status under applicable law.

Pay:

Up to $20.00 per hour Expected hours: 20.0 - 30.0 per week

Benefits:

Flexible schedule Opportunities for advancement

Work Location:

In person