Grounds Maintenance Worker

Career Guide

A Grounds Maintenance Worker keeps outdoor areas safe, clean, and visually appealing. This role supports parks, campuses, businesses, and residential properties through routine landscaping tasks, seasonal upkeep, and basic equipment operation.

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Key Responsibilities

Mow lawns and trim edges
Prune shrubs and small trees
Remove weeds and invasive plants
Plant flowers, shrubs, and groundcover
Apply mulch and topsoil
Rake leaves and remove yard debris
Perform basic irrigation checks
Operate and maintain hand tools
Operate and maintain power tools
Perform light landscape repairs
Manage snow and ice removal
Follow safety procedures and site rules
Dispose of green waste properly
Report hazards and damaged areas

Top Skills for Success

Attention to Detail

Time Management

Reliability

Teamwork

Customer Service

Safety Awareness

Equipment Operation

Equipment Maintenance

Mowing

Pruning

Weed Control

Planting

Mulching

Irrigation Basics

Snow Removal

Pest Awareness

Soil Care

Career Progression

Can Lead To

Senior Grounds Maintenance Worker

Crew Lead

Grounds Supervisor

Landscape Technician

Irrigation Technician

Sports Turf Technician

Transition Opportunities

Landscaper

Arborist

Pest Control Technician Property Maintenance Technician

Facilities Technician

Park Maintenance Worker

Common Skill Gaps

Often Missing Skills

Equipment MaintenanceIrrigation BasicsPruningPlant IdentificationSafety ComplianceCustomer Service

Development SuggestionsBuild skills through on the job shadowing, short safety courses, and manufacturer training for equipment. Practice pruning with guidance from an experienced lead, learn common local plant types, and document your work to show reliability and results.

Market Intelligence Report

Grounds Maintenance Worker is part of the Facilities Maintenance category.Explore our market intelligence report to see how AI and hiring demand are shifting for these roles.

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Salary & Demand

Median Salary Range

Entry Level$28,000 to $36,000 per year

Mid Level$36,000 to $48,000 per year

Senior Level$48,000 to $62,000 per year

Growth Trend

Steady demand driven by year round property upkeep needs, seasonal peaks, and ongoing hiring by municipalities, schools, and commercial property managers.

Companies Hiring

Major Employers

BrightViewThe Davey Tree Expert CompanyTruGreenABM IndustriesAramarkMarriott InternationalHiltonWalmartAmazonUPSFedExCity and County Parks DepartmentsSchool DistrictsUniversities

Industry Sectors

Landscaping ServicesProperty ManagementParks and RecreationEducationHospitalityHealthcareRetailWarehousing and LogisticsGovernment

Recommended Next Steps

Earn a basic safety certification

Learn safe operation of common power tools

Track completed tasks and before and after results

Ask to rotate into planting, pruning, and irrigation tasks

Practice preventive equipment checks and cleaning

Apply for a crew lead role after consistent performance

Build a simple resume highlighting reliability and equipment experience