Job Summary

The Grounds Director at Purdue University is a member of the Administrative Operations senior leadership team. As the director, you are responsible for all aspects of the Grounds department including campus landscape architecture, turf/landscape/hardscape maintenance, street maintenance, refuse and recycling operations, landscape project management, and snow and ice removal operations. You will lead and manage each of these services through direct-report supervisors and by working with other Administrative Operations and local leaders (e.g., Facility Operations; Campus Planning, Architecture, and Sustainability; Capital Program Management; Engineering; City of West Lafayette Street Dept; etc.). Your work has a direct impact on first impression of Purdue’s campus as well as brand and reputation. A successful leader in the Grounds director role is adept at relationship management, personnel management, budget management, customer service, strategic planning, setting goals and developing metrics to achieve them.

Who We Are:

Purdue University’s award-winning Grounds Department is all about growing and we are seeking a talented individual for Grounds Director on the West Lafayette, IN campus. The Grounds Director is responsible for grounds staff in maintaining the iconic appearance of the West Lafayette campus; including landscape and turf maintenance, pest control, refuse and recycling collection, street operations, and snow removal.

What We're Looking For:

Education and Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in horticulture, management, or another pertinent field
• Eight (8) years of experience in Grounds maintenance and management which must include budget and capital planning, people leadership responsibilities, and establishing and documenting policies, procedures, and goals

Skills Needed:

• Strong written and verbal communication skills required to write comprehensive reports, plan projects and maintain various forms of documentation
• Demonstrated strength in budget management and proven leadership ability is necessary for coordination of people and resources.
• Ability to communicate and maintain effective working relationships with diverse workgroups on campus including but not limited to clerical/service staff, administration, and faculty
• Adaptability and resourcefulness
• Analytical and reasoning skills are necessary for evaluation processes, judgment, and independent action
• Excellent organization and change-based skills
• Strong computer and analytical skills

What is helpful (Preferred):

• Knowledge of facilities maintenance and project principles
• Knowledge of grounds operations

Additional Information:

• All new hires will be expected to follow Protect Purdue
• Purdue University will not sponsor employment authorization for this position
• A background check will be required for employment in this position
• FLSA: Exempt (Not Eligible for Overtime)
• Retirement Eligibility: Defined Contribution Immediately
• Purdue University is an EEO/AA employer fully committed to achieving a diverse workforce. All individuals, including minorities, women, individuals with disabilities, and veterans are encouraged to apply
• Benefit Statement: Purdue University offers a substantial Benefit Package including medical, dental, and vision insurance as well as a generous paid time off package for sick and vacation days

Take Your next Giant Leap:

We never stop, we keep going, because Discovery is in our DNA, and we want you to discover a Career at Purdue University! Come work alongside a family of diverse culture with faculty, students, and staff who come together to become one, Boilermakers! Our greatest adventures are yet to come, and we want to include you.

Come take your Next Giant Leap and Discover your next career!