Manager of Grounds Services

Capitalizing on over 140 years of history and tradition in downtown Los Angeles, the University of Southern California (USC) has embarked on an unprecedented period of expansion. USC is now poised to take its place as the preeminent research institution of the 21st century and we are looking for skilled, motivated professionals to help forge the future of higher education.

The USC department of Facilities Planning and Management (FPM) – Operations & Maintenance is seeking a customer service-oriented Manager of Grounds Services with demonstrated superb leadership and communication skills to join its team.

The Work You Will Do

The Manager of Grounds Services is accountable for overseeing the operations and activities of various units, including Landscape, Athletic Fields, Irrigation Heavy Equipment, Arborist/Trees, and Fleet. The Manager of Grounds Services provides pivotal leadership to uphold high standards of quality and ensure customer satisfaction. Additionally, the Manager of Grounds Services directly oversee program operations and administrative functions, encompassing planning, scheduling, program evaluation, policy implementation, personnel administration, and budget and proposal development. Furthermore, the Manager of Grounds Services actively contribute to the design of program content, policies, and strategic planning efforts.

The Manager of Grounds Services:

• Plans and develops Grounds Services program objectives and content. Researches and identifies trends and needs and establishes program directions accordingly. Assesses quality of program operations. Modifies existing program services or creates new program offerings to maintain or enhance program standing. Links program with other relevant departments on or off campus as necessary.

• Develops and recommends program operating and administrative policies. Manages the dissemination, interpretation and application of program policies and recommends approval of exceptions.

• Manages the delivery of services to targeted program participants or beneficiaries. Sets and communicates program priorities and performance standards and assesses operations using these criteria. Plans and conducts quality assurance reviews and recommends changes as appropriate. Develops and maintains automated or manual systems and procedures to facilitate program operations.

• Oversees, leads, and develops staff assigned to program. Fosters an environment of fairness, respect, and collaboration. Recommends organizational structure, reporting relationships and staffing needs based on program goals. Makes hiring, promotional and salary decisions in accordance with university policy. Provides performance appraisals for staff and determines need for disciplinary action.

• Develops and manages program budgets and recommends or makes budgetary and resource allocations. Provides financial status reports as requested.

• Serves as a key resource for program information. Resolves problems or questions referred by program staff, senior university administrators, or professionals outside the university.

• Stays informed of developments in field. Reads pertinent literature, attends meetings and participates in professional associations as appropriate. Establishes and maintains an active network of professional contacts.

• Performs other related duties as assigned or requested. The university reserves the right to add or change duties at any time.

Preferred Qualifications

The ideal candidate for the position of Manager of Grounds Services meets the following preferred criteria:

• Master’s degree

• 5 years of relevant experience

• Demonstrated 3-5 years of supervisory experience, showcasing the ability to effectively lead/coach, develop, and motivate a diverse workforce

• Proven track record of effective verbal and written communication across various audiences

• Comprehensive knowledge and hands-on experience in facilities maintenance, landscape management, horticulture, native/climate adaptive plants, soils, and irrigation systems

• Previous experience working within a large university or campus environment

• Ability to leverage technology to enhance operational efficiencies and effectiveness

• Proficiency in utilizing Computerized Maintenance Management Systems (CMMS) to efficiently establish, manage, and track operational activities; demonstrated experience in extracting and analyzing reports from CMMS and other data sources to derive valuable insights for informed decision-making

• Sound and decisive decision-making skills, coupled with the ability to promptly and professionally resolve any issues within the scope of duties

• Adaptability and capacity to lead organizational change initiatives

• Commitment to fostering a culture of safety within the workplace

• Highly desirable certifications include Certified Educational Facilities Professional (CEFP), Certified Arborist, and Qualified Applicator License

Minimum Qualifications

All candidates for the position of Manager of Grounds Services must meet the following minimum qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree; combined experience/education as substitute for minimum education

• 3 years of experience

• Directly related professional and supervisory experience in area of program specialization

• Active/valid/unrestricted CA Driver License for past 2 years

The annual base salary range for this position is $105,784.10 - $124,000.00. When extending an offer of employment, the University of Southern California considers factors such as (but not limited to) the scope and responsibilities of the position, the candidate’s work experience, education/training, key skills, internal peer equity, federal, state, and local laws, contractual stipulations, grant funding, as well as external market and organizational considerations.

About Facilities Planning and Management (FPM) :

FPM is responsible for planning, developing, and maintaining the breadth of the facilities at USC, and is also dedicated to creating a safe environment for our USC community. Woven into every service, safety is of upmost importance. As FPM, this diverse group of innovative and talented professionals provide high quality facilities construction, operations and maintenance services at USC and serve as dedicated stewards of USC and FPM core values. FPM values integrity, excellence, well-being, open communication, accountability, diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Come and join the FPM team – a team that works as trusted partners shaping an environment of innovation and excellence. Apply today!

The University of Southern California values diversity and is committed to equal opportunity in employment.

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Minimum Education: Bachelor's degree Combined experience/education as substitute for minimum education Minimum Experience: 3 years Minimum Field of Expertise: Directly related professional and supervisory experience in area of program specialization