A Maintenance Helper or Assistant assists maintenance mechanics. Repairs and maintains equipment and machines, such as cars or heating systems. May assemble or adjust machines as directed by a head mechanic.
Job Summary The Groundskeeper supports the beauty, safety, and readiness of the Journey to the Well Retreat Center by assisting with lawn care, landscaping, and general outdoor maintenance. This role is primarily focused on mowing and landscape upkeep, while also providing flexible support for retreat events and general campus operations as needed. This position is ideal for someone who enjoys outdoor, physical work and takes pride in maintaining a clean, welcoming environment. We are a Christian Retreat Center and we treat our guests with excellence in care and attention to our Lodge, our homes, and all of our facilities. We offer a quiet, peaceful environment to work and visit and it is part of our mission to create a beautiful space for our guests to encounter connection with God and others in a meaningful way. We value our employees and their dedication to making the experience here on campus one of excellence.
Responsibilities Groundskeeping & Landscaping:
Work collaboratively with other grounds and facilities staff to complete assigned tasks efficiently. Perform routine lawn maintenance including mowing, trimming, edging, and blowing grass clippings. Assist with landscape upkeep such as weeding, mulching, wood chipping, planting, and seasonal clean-up. Maintain walking paths, outdoor gathering spaces, and common areas. Operate lawn and landscape equipment such as mowers, trimmers, blowers, wood chippers and hand tools safely and responsibly. Plow snow using a John Deere tractor with both a push blade and back blade; Clear snow with shovel or snow blower; salt walks and steps.
Event & Operational Support Duties:
Assist with event setup and teardown, including moving furniture, outdoor seating, and equipment. Help prepare outdoor areas for retreats, gatherings, and guest arrivals. Assist with firewood preparation, moving equipment, or maintaining outdoor fire areas as directed. Support general campus operations and other duties as assigned by the Executive Director, Facilities Director, or CEO. Safety & Equipment Responsibilities Perform routine inspections, preventive maintenance, and minor repairs on grounds equipment, including mowers, trimmers, chainsaws, utility vehicles, trailers, and other outdoor power equipment. Maintain accurate equipment maintenance records and promptly report mechanical issues or repair needs to supervisors. Clean, lubricate, fuel, and properly store all equipment to maximize performance, extend service life, and ensure safe operation. Coordinate with outside vendors for equipment servicing and repairs when needed, including transporting equipment to and from service locations. Maintain an organized, clean, and well-stocked maintenance shop, ensuring tools, parts, fuel, and supplies are safely stored and readily available. Conduct pre-use and post-use safety inspections to ensure equipment is in proper working condition and complies with organizational safety standards. Follow all safety protocols and report hazards, equipment issues, or property concerns promptly. Clean, store, and maintain grounds equipment after use. Work collaboratively with other grounds and facilities staff to complete assigned tasks efficiently. Experience Previous experience in groundskeeping, landscaping, lawn care, or outdoor maintenance preferred but not required. Must have relevant experience with equipment servicing and maintenance. Ability to operate basic lawn and landscape equipment safely (training may be provided). Must have experience with snow removal. Must have experience operating John Deere 5075E tractor or similar. Ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions. Strong work ethic, reliability, and willingness to follow direction. Ability to work independently and as part of a team. Physical ability to lift up to 50-75 lbs and perform physically demanding work. Maintain a valid driver's license Join us in creating beautiful outdoor spaces while ensuring they are safe and well-maintained!
