Assistant Director of Grounds

About the role

Hofstra University, a private university in Hempstead, New York, is hiring a full-time Assistant Director of Grounds (position 899197) within Facilities and Operations. Reporting to the Director of Grounds, the Assistant Director assists with the daily management and performance of the Grounds Department and the curation of the Hofstra Arboretum.

Key responsibilities

• Schedule and supervise grounds maintenance, project work, events and outdoor activities of the Athletic Department.
• Monitor, track and verify work order hours, and delegate assignments while holding subordinates accountable for satisfactory performance.
• Ensure employee productivity, compliance and quality of work, and compliance with safety regulations.
• Maintain inventory and proper care of tools, equipment, materials and supplies.
• Assist in monitoring and administering departmental operating and capital project budgets.
• Help oversee contractors and vendors for work quality, scheduling and safety compliance.
• Inspect and monitor irrigation systems, and assist with snow-control operations and storm cleanup.
• Use computer-based management software for planning, scheduling, timekeeping and event support.
• Ensure daily removal of trash and litter from landscapes, gardens, grounds, parking lots, hardscapes and athletic fields.
• Provide maintenance and support to Hofstra Athletics, Summer Camps and University Events and Conferences.
• Be available 24/7 for campus weather emergencies; occasional evenings and weekends are required for major events.

Required profile

• Bachelor's degree required; a degree in horticulture, arboriculture or a related field, or a master's degree, is preferred.
• Five to seven years of progressively responsible experience managing a union workforce.
• Ability to lift 50 lbs repeatedly and perform physical tasks in all weather conditions.
• Valid New York State driver's license maintained throughout employment.
• Ability to read and interpret landscape, construction and irrigation drawings.

Required skills

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office.
• Thorough knowledge of grounds installation, operations and maintenance, including commercial grounds vehicles, equipment and systems.
• Experience with scheduling and work-order software is a plus.
• Preferred: ArcGIS proficiency and management of arboretum GIS databases, arborist certification, and a New York State pesticide license.

What we offer

• Salary range of $100,000 - $110,000, depending on experience and education.
• Paid time off and paid holidays.
• Tuition remission for employees and eligible dependents.
• A retirement plan with University contributions.