Groundskeeper

About Historic Yellow Springs

Historic Yellow Springs is a living village steeped in a distinguished history, tradition, and folklore that stirs the imagination of those who visit. The village spans 300 years of American history. Today, the village includes 11 buildings and 142 acres mostly allocated to wooded conserved land. HYS continues to host a wide range of fine art, sculpture, and ceramic classes for adults, teens, and children, boasting some of the best art shows in the area. It contains a beautiful venue for weddings and events and hosts numerous trails for all who visit to enjoy, including passing the revolutionary war hospital commissioned by then-General Washington.

Our Mission

The mission of Historic Yellow Springs, Inc. is to share, preserve and celebrate the unique living village of Yellow Springs.

Job Summary

The Groundskeeper is responsible for assisting in maintaining the habited portions (approx. 8 acre) of the 140-acre grounds and gardens of Historic Yellow Springs. This role involves overseeing the upkeep of the landscape, ensuring its safety and aesthetics, and coordinating with external vendors for necessary maintenance.

Essential Job Functions

1. Grounds and Trail Maintenance:
   • Oversee the maintenance, appearance, and well-being of HYS primary 8 acre grounds.
   • Mow for grass maintenance, leaf blowing, and grounds preparation as needed.
   • Ensure seasonal maintenance of property hiking trails and markers for safety quarterly.
   • Coordinate with contractors when necessary.
2. Gardening and Cultivation:
   • Coordinate with garden clubs for the upkeep of decorative beds.
   • Purchase flowers and other items for maintenance and upkeep as necessary.
   • Weed and cultivate manicured gardens based on new or existing knowledge about plans for best outcome and experience.
   • Coordinate with contractors when necessary.
3. Event and Rental Preparations:
   • Proactively coordinate and prepare spaces for scheduled events, weddings, rentals, and programming.
   • Set up and remove physical aspects within the space (tables, chairs).
   • Prepare campus for seasonal events in coordination with lead committees.
   • Coordinate with on-site program staff and faculty as needed.
4. Team Engagement and Personal Growth:
   • Provide program support for other departments or activities.
   • Attend meetings, training, and key program events as determined by program staff.
   • Respond to emails and approval requests promptly.
   • Maintain positive interactions to promote and retain Yellow Springs programs and activities.
   • Actively engage brainstorming and review exercises.

Competency Requirements

• Management skills: Ability to motivate, coach, and develop volunteers and independent contractors.
• Interpersonal skills: Ability to build relationships, negotiate, and manage conflicts.
• Organizational skills.
• Familiarity with Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word).

Education and Experience

• High school diploma/GED.
• 3+ years groundskeeping or gardening experience preferred.
• Project management experience.
• Must have a valid driver’s license.

Physical Requirements and Working Conditions

• Works primarily outdoors.
• Works regular hours; occasional evening and weekend hours are required.
• Physical demands associated with carrying/moving lawn materials and supplies; must be able to climb ladders and lift a maximum of 50 lbs.
• Individuals must be able to move freely about the work site.
• Individuals must be able to communicate effectively both orally and in writing.