A groundskeeper is in charge of maintaining outdoor properties. He may also be referred to as a gardener, caretaker, landscaper, or grounds supervisor, depending on his responsibilities. Private homeowners, schools, cemeteries, country clubs, and other outdoor areas frequently hire him. Groundskeeping is typically a year-round job, with the goal of keeping the property in excellent condition for the owners.
A groundskeeper’s job entails keeping the lawn in good shape. Mowing, aerating, and watering are all part of this process. Weeds will be removed, grass seed will be spread if necessary, and mulch will be applied by a groundskeeper. Seasonal responsibilities, such as shoveling and applying salt to ice or raking leaves, are also part of the job. These responsibilities will consume the majority of his time, especially on larger properties.
Fountains, pools, and patio furniture are examples of landscaping fixtures that must be maintained. This includes any repairs that are required. It is necessary to keep outdoor lighting in good working order. Weeds must be removed from burial sites, and structures such as sheds and other outbuildings must be painted and maintained on a regular basis. This necessitates routine inspections to look for potential issues.
Using heavy equipment is a part of being a groundskeeper. Lawnmowers, weed eaters, hedgers, and trimmers are common garden tools. Snow blowers, tractors, and chainsaws are all tools that a groundskeeper can use. This necessitates understanding of how to use these tools safely. Shovels, rakes, trowels, and other manually operated tools will also be used. Maintaining landscaping tools is an important part of their use.
Any specialization that groundskeepers may have has an impact on what they do. If there isn’t a separate team for that, someone working in a cemetery would spend the majority of his time clearing weeds, cleaning gravestones, and possibly digging graves. Groundskeepers on golf courses mow and rake the lawns, smooth the sand pits, and keep the course looking tidy. A school groundskeeper may also be responsible for maintaining any playground equipment or playing fields.
Regardless of the weather, groundskeepers work outside. While the occupants of the property may be warm inside during and after a bad snowstorm, the groundskeeper will be outside clearing the driveway, sidewalks, and parking area. He could get cuts, be stung by bees, have sunburned skin, and be exposed to potentially harmful chemicals. It’s a physically demanding job, but one that people who prefer to work outside rather than behind a desk might enjoy.