DIRECTOR OF GROUNDS AT RICE UNIVERSITY: A unique opportunity exists as KOPPLIN KUEBLER & WALLACE is looking for a Director of Grounds for the Rice University in Houston Texas.
ABOUT RICE UNIVERSITY: When you join Rice University, you join a leading research institution with a distinctive commitment to undergraduate education. Rice University aspires to groundbreaking research, exceptional teaching, and contributions that better the world. This mission is fulfilled by cultivating a diverse community of learning and discovery, producing leaders across a wide spectrum of human endeavors. Discover endless opportunities to grow.
The ideal candidate understands that success in this role requires a commitment to teamwork, constant improvement, and dedication to first-class customer service “with no upper limit.” The Director of Grounds is responsible for overseeing all of the common grounds on the 300-acre campus, which includes 4,300 cataloged trees. Manages a comprehensive grounds and landscape maintenance program to maintain the quality of all of the turf, trees, landscape beds with 32 team members, including direct reports such as two Supervisors of Grounds, an Arborist, an Irrigation Lead, a Horticulturalist, three Grounds Leads, and a Solid Waste Lead. Oversees day-to-day operations of department and personnel; directs service calls; maintenance, repairs, alters and installs work according to developed or pre-set guidelines; troubleshoots malfunctions; and responds to service calls. Carry out, supervise or coordinate all repairs and general maintenance to maintain the University grounds in optimal condition and appearance. Reports to and works closely with the Assistant Vice President of Facilities, Engineering and Operations.
Key Attributes
The ideal candidate will be:
Highly organized and detail-oriented with excellent observational skills.
A proactive, results-driven manager.
An exceptional communicator.
An inspirational leader and strong mentor.
A collaborative and responsive team member.
Adept at working with a diverse workforce.
Skilled in liaising with specialists and contractors.
Loyal and trustworthy with uncompromising integrity.
Adept at current technologies
Responsibilities
Landscape Design and Planning:
Support, supplement and implement the long-term landscape masterplan in alignment with the university’s strategic goals.
Design and oversee new landscaping projects, including gardens, outdoor study areas, walkways, and recreational spaces.
Collaborate with architects, engineers, and consultants to integrate cohesive landscape elements into campus development projects.
Promote sustainability by incorporating native and drought-resistant plants per the campus landscape framework plan.
Groundskeeping Management:
Oversee all groundskeeping operations, including mowing, pruning, planting,
irrigation, pest control, and general maintenance.
Oversee all arborist operations, including pruning branches away from buildings and height clearances above walkways and streets.
Oversee all irrigation operations, including all maintenance of irrigation systems, complete the migration of antiquated irrigation system to the Baseline system, and irrigation schedules.
Oversee all horticultural operations, including maintaining the various named gardens across campus and managing the expenditure of the endowment for respective gardens.
Oversee all solid waste removal operations, including the removal of solid waste from campus dining facilities to the centralized trash bins.
Develop and manage the groundskeeping budget, ensuring efficient allocation of resources and cost-effective operations.
Implement and oversee an integrated pest management (IPM) program to minimize chemical usage and promote ecological balance.
Ensure the safety and well-being of the groundskeeping staff by promoting a culture of safety and adherence to best practices.
Leadership and Supervision:
Lead, mentor, and develop a team of groundskeeping staff, fostering a positive and productive work environment.
Conduct regular staff training on landscape maintenance, sustainability, and safety.
Coordinate with other campus departments, including facilities management to ensure seamless operations and collaboration.
Participate in and potentially co-chair facilitating meetings and activities related to the Lynn R. Lowrey Arboretum.
Sustainability and Environmental Stewardship:
Promote and implement sustainable landscaping practices, including water conservation, composting, and the use of organic fertilizers.
Stay abreast of current trends and advancements in sustainable landscape design and maintenance, incorporating new techniques as appropriate.
Develop waste reduction and recycling programs within groundskeeping operations.
Community Engagement:
Engage with students, faculty, and staff to foster a sense of ownership and pride in the campus landscape.
Develop educational programs and initiatives related to landscaping, horticulture, and sustainability, in collaboration with academic units such as the Wiess School of Natural Sciences.
Represent Rice University at regional and national conferences, workshops, and professional events.
Education and/or Experience:
Associate degree in Landscape Architecture, Horticulture, Environmental Science, or a related field.
6 + years of experience in landscape design and groundskeeping management, with at least 3 years in a supervisory role
Proven expertise in sustainable landscape practices and integrated pest management.
Strong project management skills, with the ability to manage multiple projects and priorities simultaneously.
Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
Proficiency in landscape design software and other relevant technology.
Ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions and perform physical tasks as needed.
Preferred:
10-Years of related experience
Master's Degree
Bilingual (English/Spanish)
Rice University is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to diversity at all levels. It considers for employment qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national or ethnic origin, genetic information, disability, or protected veteran status.
EMPLOYMENT ELIGIBILITY VERIFICATION
In compliance with federal law, all hired employees must verify their identity and eligibility to work in the United States and complete the required employment eligibility verification form upon hire.
SALARY AND BENEFITS
Salary is open and commensurate with qualifications and experience. The University offers an excellent bonus and benefits package, including association membership.
INSTRUCTIONS ON HOW TO APPLY
Please upload your resume and cover letter in the order listed using the link below. When prompted for them during the online application process, you should have your documents fully prepared to attach. Please be sure your image is not on your resume or cover letter; it should be used on your LinkedIn Profile.
Prepare a thoughtful cover letter addressed to the Rice University, Assistant Vice President of Facilities, Engineering and Operations, Elmer Whitehead, Jr., P.E., CEM.. Clearly articulate your alignment with this role, why you want to be considered for this position at this stage of your career, and why Rice University and the Houston area will benefit you, your family, your career, and the University if selected.
You must apply for this role as soon as possible but no later than Monday, March 3, 2025, Candidate selections will occur mid-March, with the first Interviews expected in late March and the second interviews a short time later. The new candidate should assume his/her role in early May.
IMPORTANT: Save your resume and letter in the following manner:
“Last Name, First Name - Resume” &
“Last Name, First Name - Cover Letter – Rice University”
(These documents should be in Word or PDF format)
Click here to upload your resume and cover letter.
If you have any questions, please email Katy Eliades: [email protected]