Groundskeeper

Bethany College

Lindsborg, Kansas

Bethany College

GROUNDSKEEPER

FLSA Status:

HOULRY; NON-EXEMPT

Department:

Facilities

Reports to:

Director of Facilities

Positions Managed:

Not Applicable

Why Bethany:

Rooted in our Lutheran heritage and the transformative power of the liberal arts, Bethany prepares students to lead lives of purpose, leadership, creativity, and service in a complex and changing world. Located in Lindsborg, Kansas-affectionately known as "Little Sweden" and celebrated for its vibrant arts community-Bethany offers a close-knit environment where faculty and staff know students by name and mentor them in a highly personalized setting.

Education at Bethany is rooted in intellectual discovery and a deep sense of belonging, equipping students to think critically, lead ethically, and serve with purpose. As a small, private, rural college, Bethany plays an essential role in renewing civic life, expanding opportunity, and fostering community revitalization. We believe in the value of personalized liberal arts education, the power of community, and the promise of rural America.

At Bethany, you'll have the opportunity to inspire the next generation while contributing to the cultural and academic life of our campus and region as we prepare students to make meaningful contributions to the world.

About Bethany College:

Founded in 1881, Bethany College is a dynamic liberal arts institution located in Lindsborg, Kansas-known as Little Sweden U.S.A. Bethany provides a transformative educational experience grounded in faith, learning, and community. The College is dedicated to cultivating leaders who serve and inspire through integrity, creativity, and purpose.

Position Overview:

The Groundskeeper is responsible for maintaining and improving the exterior grounds of Bethany College, including athletic fields, track facilities, walkways, and landscaped areas. Duties involve lawn care, snow and ice removal, application of seed/fertilizer/approved chemicals, equipment maintenance, and support to other Facilities departments as needed. This position ensures campus grounds are safe, functional, and visually appealing for students, faculty, staff, and visitors.

Essential Functions:

Perform regular maintenance and enhancement of college grounds, including mowing, trimming, weeding, and landscaping

Maintain athletic fields and track areas to ensure functionality, safety, and a professional appearance

Apply seed, fertilizer, and approved chemicals as directed, following safety procedures and environmental standards

Remove snow and ice from sidewalks, entryways, and parking areas using hand tools or mechanized equipment

Sweep and clean sidewalks and outdoor common areas to maintain a tidy campus environment

Maintain and inventory landscaping tools and groundskeeping equipment; ensure proper use and routine care

Operate a variety of equipment, including mowers, trimmers, blowers, and tractors

Support other Facilities Services departments with general maintenance tasks or event preparation, as needed

Assist in securing buildings and ensuring safe, hazard-free conditions

Participate in training on landscaping techniques, safety procedures, product usage, and college policies

Supervise student groundskeeper workers and assist with student summer grounds crews

Collaborate with other departments to support campus operations and events

Suggest improvements to grounds operations, service efficiency, and workplace safety

Attend and contribute to team meetings; provide feedback and recommendations

Maintain regular, punctual attendance and a consistent work presence

The statements contained herein describe the scope of responsibility and essential functions of this position, but should not be considered an all-inclusive listing of work requirements. Individuals may perform other duties as assigned, including work in other areas to cover absences or provide relief to equalize peak work periods or otherwise balance the workload.

Qualifications:

Required:

Current driver s license

High school diploma or equivalency (or currently pursuing with a set graduation date)

Ability to communicate effectively with diverse audiences

Ability to handle multiple projects/assignments concurrently and be very results-oriented

Highly motivated and works well both independently and in a team environment

Preferred:

Lawn care or groundskeeping experience

Microsoft Office, computer knowledge, and knowledge of office equipment

Bilingual in Spanish is a plus, or some knowledge of the Spanish language is a plus

Physical Skills and Abilities:

Ability to walk, stand, bend, kneel, and lift regularly throughout the workday

Ability to lift and carry items up to 50 lbs using proper lifting techniques

Manual dexterity, vision, and coordination to operate landscaping equipment safely

Ability to work in outdoor weather conditions, including heat, cold, rain, and snow

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions

Working Conditions:

Primarily outdoor campus environments with regular exposure to seasonal weather

May require early morning, evening, weekend, or event-related hours during peak periods

Compensation & Benefits:

Hourly starting wage of $15.50 per hour

Comprehensive benefits package, including health, dental, vision, and retirement plans

Generous vacation, sick leave, and holidays

Tuition remission benefits

Professional Development Funds

Opportunities for professional development and leadership growth

Supportive, mission-driven community and a beautiful campus environment

How to Apply:

Apply online at Employment

Complete application and possible resume

EEO:

Bethany College, an institution of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA), provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, sex, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, marital status, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law.

This policy reflects Bethany College's mission to educate, develop, and challenge individuals to reach for truth and excellence as they lead lives of faith, learning, and service. This commitment to equal employment opportunities strengthens our community and enhances our ability to fulfill our educational mission.