Seasonal Assistant Grounds Keeper

Purpose and Function of Job:

 Assistant Groundskeeper assists with the aesthetics and efficient operation of the playing surface, turf and grounds at LMCU Ballpark by caring for and supervising the use of the field while maintaining it in the highest quality condition. The Assistant Groundskeeper also assists the facility maintenance department as needed during the off season. The Assistant Groundskeeper works closely with Major League Affiliate, visiting teams, coaches, and players to develop positive relationship all while embodying The Whitecaps Way and representing the image of the West Michigan Whitecaps and LMCU Ballpark. 

Essential Duties and Responsibilities: 

1. Assists Head Groundskeeper in the supervision of all grounds crew staff in his absence.
2. Manage effective preventative and corrective maintenance and detailed upkeep of the playing surface at LMCU Ballpark.
3. Conduct regular inspections, often daily during baseball season, to ensure the quality of the playing field and surrounding turf and equipment used to maintain it.
4. Assists in scheduling irrigation of field and surrounding grounds.
5. Assists in scheduling fertilization.
6. Assists in managing infield tarp placement and removal in coordination with Head Groundskeeper and VP of Whitecaps.
7. Assist with pre-game set up, post-game take down of field for games and other events.
8. Assist with the set-up and take down of baseball equipment on field for team practice and drills.
9. Assist with the setup and tear down of facility events (lead setup when events impact the field) including concerts, football, BBQs, soccer, etc.
10. Assist in maintaining continuous communication with other departments regarding on-field promotions and baseball events.
11. Conduct routine inspections of safety padding and netting throughout the facility.
12. Ensure the safe operation of equipment utilized for field and turf management.
13. Responsible to maintain grounds equipment in safe, operable condition and/or recommend replacement.
14. Assist in managing work to schedule and effectively communicate tarping
15. Assist Facility Maintenance Manager in performing preventative maintenance and repairs on buildings, equipment, and machinery during off season as needed.
16. Handle snow removal as required.
17. Assist with various operations duties as necessary.
18. Assist in other maintenance duties as assigned, such as painting, clean up, concrete repair, etc.
19. Attend extended learning opportunities as needed.
20. Works with direct manager and HR to handle any employee relations issues as arise.
21. Maintains compliance with all appropriate MIOSHA, safety, departmental or company procedures and standards.
22. Game day and facility events activity is required resulting in night or weekend hours.
23. Special projects and other duties as assigned.

Type of prior related experience:

1. Some prior grounds maintenance experience preferred.
2. Management or team leadership experience preferred.

Special skills/abilities/competencies required:

1. Strong leadership and team building skills.
2. Critical thinking skills.
3. Self-motivated and goal oriented.
4. Great guest service and customer service skills.

Education level:

High school diploma required.

Two-year Technical Certificate, Associates Degree or Bachelor of Science BS in a relative degree program such as Turf grass Management, Crop and Soil, Agronomics, Turf grass Science or Sports Field Management required.

1. Certifications, Licenses or special training needed:
2. Michigan Commercial Pesticide Applicator License: Core and 3A
3. Valid Driver’s License required.

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to use hands to handle or feel; reach with hands and arms; and talk or hear.  The employee frequently is required to stand, walk, and sit.  The employee is occasionally required to climb or balance; stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl.  The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 70 pounds.  Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, and ability to adjust focus. Ability to operate motor vehicles and various equipment, field equipment and tarp as necessary. Lift and hold heavy hoses for long periods of time. Ability to use a respirator and protective equipment as required.

The above information on this job description has been described to indicate the general nature and level of work performed by incumbents.  Other duties and responsibilities not specifically described may be assigned from time to time, consistent with knowledge, skills and abilities of the incumbent.

Hourly; (40 Hours)