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If you’ve Googled “Groundsman job description,” you’ve probably seen dozens of copy-paste articles. They all look the same: a list of duties, a few bullet points, and a half-hearted call to apply. The problem? Posts like that don’t actually attract great candidates—they just fill space.
A good job description should do more than list responsibilities. It should show candidates why the role matters, what it’s like to work with your team, and why they should choose your company over the next one on their feed.
That’s why, before we dive in, I recommend checking out our full guide on how to write a job post that attracts top talent , Link https://workscreen.io/how-to-write-a-job-post/ — it explains why generic posts fail and what actually inspires top applicants.
But if you’re here specifically to write a compelling Groundsman job description, let’s break it down in plain English.
Don’t let bad hires slow you down. WorkScreen helps you find the right people—fast, easy, and stress-free.
What Does a Groundsman Actually Do?
A Groundsman is responsible for maintaining and improving outdoor spaces — from school fields and sports grounds to public parks and private estates. Their work ensures that these areas are safe, functional, and visually appealing. But the role goes beyond mowing lawns and trimming hedges.
A good groundsman is part caretaker, part problem-solver, and part safety officer. They’re the people who make sure grass is cut before game day, pathways are safe for students, or that a company’s outdoor space reflects professionalism.
That’s why it’s not just about technical skills. A great groundsman brings:
- Reliability — showing up consistently to keep routines on track.
- Attention to detail — noticing the small things others might overlook.
- Physical stamina — since much of the work is hands-on and outdoors.
- Pride in results — knowing the role has a direct impact on how people experience an environment.
In short: a groundsman keeps outdoor spaces in top condition, and when the job is done well, most people don’t notice — they just enjoy the environment.
Two Great Groundsman Job Description Templates
✅ Option 1: Job Description For Experienced Groundsman
Job Title: Groundsman – Cedar Ridge Athletics Park
Location: Fort Collins, CO
Type: Full-Time | Mon–Fri, 6:00 AM–2:30 PM (seasonal weekends/overtime during events)
Salary Range: $22–$27/hour (based on experience)
🎥 A quick hello from our Facilities Manager (60s): [Loom/YouTube link]
About Cedar Ridge Athletics Park
Cedar Ridge is a 9-field community sports complex hosting youth leagues, regional tournaments, and school athletics year-round. We care about playability, safety, and fields that look game-day ready—every day. Our small, experienced crew uses professional-grade equipment, and we take pride in delivering surfaces athletes love.
What You’ll Be Doing
- Maintain turf and clay surfaces: mowing, edging, aeration, topdressing, infield grooming, and line-marking.
- Inspect, repair, and program irrigation systems; monitor moisture and turf health.
- Operate and maintain tractors, mowers, utility vehicles, and small engines.
- Prep fields for events (layouts, goals, benches, signage) and restore surfaces post-play.
- Perform seasonal tasks: fertilization, overseeding, leaf/snow removal.
- Uphold safety standards; document work orders and daily checks.
What We’re Looking For
- 2–3+ years in sports turf/grounds/landscaping.
- Confident with irrigation troubleshooting and basic equipment maintenance.
- Working knowledge of turfgrass practices and seasonal cycles.
- Comfortable with physical, outdoor work in all weather.
- Bonus: Colorado pesticide applicator license or willingness to obtain (we’ll sponsor).
Perks & Benefits
- Medical, dental, vision + employer HSA contribution
- 401(k) with company match
- 15 days PTO + 8 paid holidays; paid overtime (time-and-a-half)
- Uniforms provided + annual boot stipend
- Paid certifications (turf, irrigation, pesticide) and ongoing training
- Modern equipment fleet and well-maintained shop
Why This Role Is a Great Fit
You’ll have real ownership over high-visibility fields and see the impact of your work on game day. We move fast, respect craftsmanship, and back you with the tools and support to do your best work alongside a tight-knit crew.
Our Hiring Process
We review every application within 5–7 days. Shortlisted candidates complete a brief skills chat and an on-site equipment walk-through. Finalists may do a paid working demo (2–4 hours). Standard references/background checks for offers.
How to Apply
Apply via WorkScreen to ensure a fair, skills-first review: [WorkScreen.io apply link]. You’ll receive status updates at each step.
✅ Option 2: Job Description For Entry-Level Groundsman
Job Title: Groundsman (Entry-Level – Training Provided) – Maple Grove School District
Location: Madison, WI
Type: Full-Time | Mon–Fri, 7:00 AM–3:00 PM (flex during storms/snow)
Salary Range: $16–$20/hour
🎥 Meet our Operations Director (45s): [Loom/YouTube link]
About Maple Grove School District
Maple Grove serves 6,800 students across 8 campuses. Our operations team keeps playgrounds safe, lawns tidy, walkways clear, and outdoor areas welcoming for students, families, and staff. We invest in training so great people can grow into long-term roles.
What You’ll Be Doing
- Learn and perform mowing, trimming, edging, leaf cleanup, planting, and mulching.
- Inspect playgrounds and walkways; flag and fix minor hazards.
- Assist with basic irrigation checks and seasonal tasks (snow/ice removal, salt).
- Support special events: set-up, signage, and post-event cleanup.
- Keep tools/equipment clean, fueled, and stored properly.
What We’re Looking For
- No prior grounds experience required—training provided.
- Reliability, coachability, and pride in quality work.
- Ability to lift 50 lbs and work outdoors year-round.
- Valid driver’s license and dependable transportation.
- Bonus: comfort with handheld power tools or lawn equipment.
Perks & Benefits
- Medical, dental, vision + Employee Assistance Program
- State retirement plan + 403(b) option
- 12 paid holidays + 10 days PTO (additional accruals with tenure)
- Uniforms provided + winter gear stipend
- Paid training and certifications (playground safety, snow ops, equipment)
- Predictable schedule aligned to the school calendar
Why This Role Is a Great Fit
Your work directly supports student safety and pride in our campuses. You’ll join a supportive team, gain marketable skills, and build a stable, meaningful career path—with mentorship from day one.
Our Hiring Process
We review every application within 1–2 weeks. Interviews are conversational (virtual or in-person). Finalists complete a short paid trial shift or equipment shadow. Offers are contingent on standard background checks.
How to Apply
Apply via WorkScreen so your effort and skills come first: [WorkScreen.io apply link]. We’ll keep you informed at every step.
Build a winning team—without the hiring headache. WorkScreen helps you hire fast, confidently, and without second-guessing.
Breakdown of Why These Groundsman Job Posts Work
Both of these job descriptions avoid the generic, box-checking approach and instead connect with candidates on a human level. Here’s why they stand out:
1. The Job Titles Are Clear and Specific
- Instead of just saying “Groundsman”, they specify context:
- “Groundsman – Cedar Ridge Athletics Park”
- “Groundsman (Entry-Level – Training Provided) – Maple Grove School District”
- “Groundsman – Cedar Ridge Athletics Park”
- This instantly signals the setting, level of experience, and type of work, which helps attract the right applicants.
2. They Include a Video From the Hiring Manager
- Adding a Loom or YouTube link introduces the team behind the job.
- Candidates see there are real people, not just faceless HR, making the post more approachable and trustworthy.
3. The “About Us” Sections Are Authentic
- Each version ties the role back to a mission:
- Cedar Ridge emphasizes sports field playability and event readiness.
- Maple Grove highlights student safety and pride in campus grounds.
- Cedar Ridge emphasizes sports field playability and event readiness.
- This gives candidates a sense of purpose, not just tasks.
4. Responsibilities Show Impact, Not Just Chores
- Instead of “mow lawns and maintain grounds,” the wording connects to outcomes:
- “Keep fields game-day ready”
- “Ensure walkways and playgrounds are safe for students”
- “Keep fields game-day ready”
- This helps candidates feel their work truly matters.
5. Transparent Pay and Benefits
- Both examples list salary ranges, perks, and benefits upfront.
- This builds trust and signals respect for candidates’ time, filtering in serious applicants.
6. Perks & Benefits Are Separated From “Why This Role Fits”
- By splitting these sections, the posts are clearer:
- Perks = tangible rewards (insurance, PTO, stipends).
- Why it’s a fit = culture and growth opportunities.
- Perks = tangible rewards (insurance, PTO, stipends).
- This mirrors how candidates think when evaluating a job: first “What do I get?” then “Do I belong here?”
7. The Hiring Process Is Respectful and Transparent
- Both posts explain timelines and steps (paid trial shifts, demo work, background checks).
- This combats one of the biggest candidate frustrations: sending applications into a black hole.
8. They Use a Human, Conversational Tone
- Phrases like “You’ll have real ownership over high-visibility fields” or “Your work directly supports student safety” help the candidate visualize the role.
- This tone connects better than corporate jargon or checklist-style duties.
Bad Groundsman Job Description Example (And Why It Fails)
Job Title: Groundsman
Company: Greenfield Enterprises
Location: Ohio
Type: Full-Time
Job Summary
Greenfield Enterprises is seeking a Groundsman to assist with general landscaping and maintenance duties.
Responsibilities
- Mow lawns and trim hedges.
- Maintain flower beds.
- Operate basic groundskeeping equipment.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
Requirements
- High school diploma.
- 1–2 years of experience preferred.
- Must be able to lift heavy objects.
How to Apply
Interested applicants should send a CV and cover letter to hr@greenfield.com. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
❌ Why This Job Post Fails
- Generic Job Title
- Just “Groundsman” with no context—school? park? stadium? There’s no clarity on what kind of setting or experience is needed.
- Just “Groundsman” with no context—school? park? stadium? There’s no clarity on what kind of setting or experience is needed.
- Bland, Cold Summary
- “Assist with general landscaping” tells the candidate nothing about why the job matters. It reads like filler text.
- “Assist with general landscaping” tells the candidate nothing about why the job matters. It reads like filler text.
- Responsibilities Are Too Vague
- “Perform other duties as assigned” signals a lack of effort in writing the post. Nothing about safety, impact, or outcomes.
- “Perform other duties as assigned” signals a lack of effort in writing the post. Nothing about safety, impact, or outcomes.
- No Personality or Culture
- There’s no mention of the company’s mission, values, or team environment. Candidates can’t picture what it’s like to work there.
- There’s no mention of the company’s mission, values, or team environment. Candidates can’t picture what it’s like to work there.
- No Salary or Perks
- Today’s candidates expect transparency. Hiding pay and benefits creates distrust and deters serious applicants.
- Today’s candidates expect transparency. Hiding pay and benefits creates distrust and deters serious applicants.
- Dismissive Hiring Process
- Saying “Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted” feels cold and one-sided. It suggests candidates are disposable.
- Saying “Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted” feels cold and one-sided. It suggests candidates are disposable.
- No Effort to Inspire or Attract
- There’s nothing here that would make a motivated, high-quality applicant feel excited. This is the type of post that attracts only desperate or disengaged candidates.
- There’s nothing here that would make a motivated, high-quality applicant feel excited. This is the type of post that attracts only desperate or disengaged candidates.
Bonus Tips to Make Your Job Description Stand Out
Even if you’ve nailed the basics, the small touches can make the difference between a generic job post and one that attracts great candidates. Here are some proven ways to elevate your Groundsman job description:
1. Add a Security & Privacy Notice
Build trust by reassuring applicants you take their safety seriously. Example:
“We take the security and privacy of all applicants seriously. We will never ask for payment, bank details, or personal financial information during any part of the hiring process.”
2. Mention Leave Days or Flex Time
Time off matters. Candidates want to know they can recharge. Example:
“Enjoy up to 20 days of paid time off per year, plus 10 paid holidays, so you can rest and return ready.”
3. Highlight Training & Growth Opportunities
This is especially powerful if you’re open to entry-level candidates. Example:
“We invest in your growth. From paid certifications in turf management to ongoing mentorship, you’ll have opportunities to develop your career while working with us.”
4. Add a Short Video From the Hiring Manager or Team
A 60-second Loom or YouTube video makes your post feel more human. It lets applicants see who they’d be working with and creates a sense of connection before they apply.
Here is an example that we used in our master guide on how to write a great job post description , you can check it out here https://www.loom.com/share/ba401b65b7f943b68a91fc6b04a62ad4
5. Showcase Real Employee Testimonials
Authenticity beats buzzwords. Link to Glassdoor reviews or include a short quote from a current team member. Example:
“I’ve worked here for 5 years, and the best part is the respect and support we get from management. They provide us with the tools and training we need to do the job right.” – James, Senior Groundsman
6. Call Out Respectful Candidate Experience
Most applicants are tired of ghosting. Differentiate yourself by committing to fairness. Example:
“We review every application and reply to every candidate. Whether you’re shortlisted or not, you’ll always hear back from us.”
Should You Use AI to Write a Groundsman Job Description?
Lately, it feels like everyone is turning to AI tools to churn out job descriptions. Even big-name hiring platforms now offer one-click “auto-generate JD” features. But here’s the truth: relying on AI alone often backfires.
❌ Why You Shouldn’t Rely on AI Alone
- Generic Output: You’ll end up with bland, cookie-cutter posts that look like every other listing online.
- Wrong Candidates: Generic posts attract the wrong crowd—job seekers just blasting out applications instead of genuinely caring about your role.
- Brand Risk: Your job post is often the first impression a candidate has of your organization. A lazy, AI-written post makes your company look just as lazy.
✅ The Smarter Way to Use AI
AI can be incredibly useful—but only if you feed it the right ingredients. Think of it as a polishing tool, not a replacement for your input.
Here’s how to do it right:
- Write down the essentials first:
- What your company does
- Why the role matters
- Key responsibilities and skills
- Culture and values
- Benefits and perks
- Hiring process
- What your company does
- Then prompt AI like this:
“Help me refine a job description for our company, Cedar Ridge Athletics Park. We’re hiring a Groundsman to maintain sports fields, operate irrigation systems, and prepare grounds for events. Our culture is tight-knit and fast-moving, and we value pride in craftsmanship. We offer $22–$27/hr, PTO, insurance, and certification training. Here are a few notes I’ve written to get you started: [paste your notes]. Please polish my draft to make it clear, engaging, and candidate-friendly.”
By giving AI context, tone, and real details, you’ll get a draft worth using. Without that, you’ll just get fluff.
Bottom line: AI is best used as an editor, not an author. Your role is to provide the story—AI’s role is to smooth it out.
WorkScreen simplifies the hiring process, helping you quickly identify top talent while eliminating low-quality applications. By saving you countless hours and reducing the risk of bad hires, it empowers you to build a team that delivers results
Copy-Paste Groundsman Job Description Templates
✅ Option 1: Conversational Job Description (Culture-First Style)
Job Title: Groundsman – Keep Outdoor Spaces Game-Ready at [Company Name]
💼 Location: [On-site/Hybrid/Remote] (HQ: [City, State])
🕒 Type: [Full-Time/Part-Time]
💰 Salary Range: [${X},000 – ${Y},000]/year
🎥 A quick hello from our Hiring Manager (60s): [Insert Loom/YouTube link]
About [Company Name]
At [Company Name], we maintain [sports fields/campuses/parks/estates] that people rely on every day. From safe walkways to game-day turf, our grounds team keeps outdoor spaces looking sharp, performing well, and ready for whatever’s next.
Your Day-to-Day
You’ll be hands-on, making sure our grounds are safe, clean, and top-tier: mowing and edging, irrigation checks, infield/bed prep, seasonal tasks, and event set-ups. You’ll use well-maintained equipment and collaborate with a supportive crew that takes pride in the details.
What We’re Looking For
- 2+ years in grounds/turf/landscaping (or equivalent)
- Confident operating grounds equipment safely
- Solid understanding of turf care and seasonal cycles
- Reliable, proactive, and detail-focused
Perks & Benefits
- Health, dental, vision insurance
- Retirement plan with employer match
- days PTO + [Y] paid holidays
- Paid certifications/training (e.g., turf, irrigation, pesticide)
- Uniforms + annual gear/boot stipend
Why This Role Is a Great Fit
You’ll see your impact daily—whether it’s a field ready for kickoff or a campus that feels welcoming. If you value craftsmanship, teamwork, and visible results, you’ll thrive here.
How to Apply
Apply via WorkScreen so your skills come first: [WorkScreen.io link]. We review every application and keep you updated at each step.
✅ Option 2: Structured Job Brief + Responsibilities + Requirements
Job Title: Groundsman – Maintain Safe, Beautiful Grounds at [Company Name]
💼 Location: [On-site/Hybrid/Remote] (HQ: [City, State])
🕒 Type: [Full-Time/Part-Time]
💰 Salary Range: [${X},000 – ${Y},000]/year
Job Brief
[Company Name] is hiring a Groundsman to maintain [campuses/fields/parks/facilities] so they’re safe, clean, and consistently presentable. We value reliability, teamwork, and pride in a job well done. [Entry-level welcome/training provided] or [experienced candidates preferred]—tailor as needed.
Responsibilities
- Mow, trim, edge, prune, plant, and mulch as scheduled
- Inspect walkways/play areas/fields; flag and fix minor hazards
- Operate and maintain equipment; assist with irrigation checks
- Support seasonal tasks (e.g., leaf/snow removal, overseeding)
- Help with event set-ups and post-event restoration
Requirements
- [High school diploma/GED preferred]
- [0–2 / 2+ years] grounds or landscaping experience
- Able to lift 50 lbs and work outdoors year-round
- Valid driver’s license and dependable transportation
Perks & Benefits
- Health, dental, vision insurance
- Retirement plan + optional supplemental savings
- days PTO + [Y] paid holidays
- Paid training/certifications; uniforms + gear stipend
How to Apply
Apply via WorkScreen for a fair, skills-first review: [WorkScreen.io link]. We respond to every applicant.
Let WorkScreen Handle the Next Step of Hiring
Writing a strong job post is only half the battle. Once applications start coming in, the real challenge begins: separating committed, qualified candidates from low-effort, copy-paste applicants.
That’s where WorkScreen.io comes in.
With WorkScreen, you can:
- Quickly spot your best candidates.
WorkScreen automatically evaluates, scores, and ranks applicants on a performance-based leaderboard—making it easy to spot top talent, save time, and make smarter, data-driven hiring decisions.
- Test for real skills, not just résumés.
With WorkScreen, you can administer one-click skill tests to assess candidates based on real-world ability—not just credentials like résumés and past experience. This helps you hire more confidently and holistically.
- Eliminate low-effort applicants.
WorkScreen automatically eliminates low-effort applicants who use AI Tools to apply, copy-paste answers, or rely on “one-click apply.” This way, you focus only on genuine, committed, and high-quality candidates—helping you avoid costly hiring mistakes.
- Save hours of time.
Instead of digging through piles of résumés, you’ll have a clear, data-driven shortlist ready for interviews.
👉 After you’ve written a great job post, let WorkScreen handle the rest—so you can hire smarter, faster, and with confidence.
turn your next job description into a powerful hiring tool.
FAQ
Beyond basic landscaping abilities, strong Groundsmen bring a mix of technical and personal skills. Look for:
- Practical knowledge of turf care, irrigation, and grounds equipment.
- Physical stamina to handle outdoor work in varying conditions.
- Attention to detail for spotting safety hazards or turf issues early.
- Reliability—grounds work often has daily/seasonal cycles that can’t be skipped.
- Teamwork and communication—especially in schools, sports facilities, or estates where coordination is key.
The salary depends on setting, region, and experience. In the U.S., most Groundsmen earn between $30,000 and $45,000 per year, or roughly $15–$22 per hour. Experienced Groundsmen working in specialized environments (like stadiums, golf courses, or large institutions) may earn $50,000+. Entry-level roles may start closer to $28,000 annually.
While both roles involve outdoor maintenance, the focus differs:
- A Gardener typically manages plants, flowers, and landscaping aesthetics.
- A Groundsman handles broader upkeep, including lawns, turf, playgrounds, sports fields, irrigation, and even safety checks on outdoor facilities.
