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Grounds Manager

Please see Special Instructions for more details.

Vancouver Community College is committed to maintaining a work force that represents the diverse community we serve and we encourage all qualified applicants.

Position Details

Position Information

Posting Number 23AC0177
Position Title Grounds Manager
Pclass # S9904
Who We Are
We acknowledge that Vancouver Community College (VCC) is located on the traditional unceded territories of the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish), and səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh) peoples who have been stewards of this land from time immemorial.

For over 55 years, VCC has been a leader in innovative, experiential post-secondary learning. We’re one of B.C’s top employers and we are proud to inspire students to discover their passions, gain essential skills, and learn what it takes to succeed in a competitive workforce.

At VCC, we respect and celebrate our differences, and are committed to the work of decolonization, accessibility, and inclusivity for all. Be a part of creating an inclusive community that provides equitable opportunities for Indigenous and diverse representation, participation, and success for everyone.

We value lived experience and encourage applications from members of all groups experiencing barriers to equity. Come join the VCC community as we shape the future together.
Position Summary
This position is responsible for overseeing the maintenance and development of property grounds and outdoor infrastructure, while protecting and preserving the natural environment. This position is responsible to maintain grounds and outdoor spaces free from hazard and in conformity with applicable health and safety regulations, while enhancing the well-being of students, faculty, staff, tenants and visitors.
Duties & Responsibilities
  1. Responsible for managing grounds and landscaping, including but not limited to paved surfaces, arboriculture, horticulture, irrigation system, outdoor campus furniture, outdoor amenities, playgrounds, grounds equipment, signage, fencing, and wildlife.
  2. Develops, assesses, implements, and maintains grounds and landscape seasonal standard operating procedures in accordance with the City of Vancouver (COV) Bylaws, including but not limited to irrigation, integrated pest management, and fleet.
  3. Develops, assesses, implements, and maintains grounds and landscape management plans, including but not limited to tree retention strategy and sustainable development to improve pollinator health within the campus landscape.
  4. Regularly monitors and evaluates condition of the grounds and landscape to identify areas requiring attention, while ensuring all grounds maintenance adheres to APPA Grounds Standards.
  5. Plans, schedules, coordinates, and approves the work of contracted services pertaining to landscape and grounds operations and support services as directed.
  6. Performs regular grounds and maintenance audits to ensure contractor accountability.
  7. Develops and maintains tree and outdoor campus amenities inventory.
  8. Effectively and simultaneously manages contracts and projects.
  9. Manages and tracks all documentation and data related to grounds and landscape.
  10. Prepares and manages budget, purchase requisitions for goods and services and receives invoices in Banner for accuracy.
  11. Controls and authorizes expenditures in accordance with established limitations and procurement policies; supports Procurement Department in the development of scope of work and contract specifications.
  12. Assists in the development of programs and capital projects to enhance VCC’s outdoor spaces and improve accessibility.
  13. Oversees required training of staff and contractors, when applicable.
  14. Supports Security and Safety Department in maintaining parking grounds, including electric vehicle and electric bike charging infrastructure.
  15. Communicates with administrators, personnel, and external organizations to coordinate activities, resolve issues and exchange information pertinent to grounds and landscape;
  16. Prepares correspondence and conducts research as needed.
  17. Acts as an emergency response team member and fulfills specific duties as described in the College’s Emergency Response Plans.
  18. Acts as liaison to health and safety committee and sustainability committee as needed.
  19. Works at all VCC campus locations, as assigned.
  20. Travels between VCC campus locations.
  21. Assists with environmental assessments and reporting, when required.
  22. Performs other related duties as required.
Qualifications
Education and Experience
  • Completion of 3 years Post-Secondary in facilities management, trades, and business courses, including supervisory training and over 5 years’ related experience in the supervision of large buildings and grounds operations and services. A Building Manager Certificate (BMC) or Facilities Management Professional (FMP) would be an asset for this position.
  • Experience using MS Office suite software (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
  • Experience using FAST WebReq, FAST Financial, and Banner.
  • An equivalent combination of training and/or experience may be substituted for the required qualifications.
  • Previous experience supervising support staff, contractors and trades personnel.
  • Project and construction management skills
  • Knowledge of Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS) and Operational Health and Safety (OHS) practices

Skills and Abilities
  • Proven interpersonal skills with the ability to work collaboratively as a member of a team and to establish and maintain effective working relationships with coworkers, College administrative staff, contractors, consultants, and local authorities having jurisdiction.
  • Demonstrated knowledge and experience with planning, organizing, scheduling, and coordinating building and grounds services and minor renovation work.
  • Thorough knowledge of grounds maintenance and cleaning.
  • An understanding of security practices and procedures.
  • Demonstrated knowledge of the practices and principles affecting supervision and maintenance of campus grounds and outdoor infrastructure.
  • Understanding of the maintenance and repair trades involved in the servicing of grounds.
  • Knowledge of the policies, rules and regulations governing the operational aspects of the College as well as all applicable by-laws, regulations and statutes.
  • Ability to communicate clearly and effectively in written and spoken English.
  • Ability to exercise professionalism, sound judgment, discretion, tact and courtesy when dealing with requests for external vendors/clients and with internal contacts.
  • An understanding of DDC (Direct Digital Controls) and Building Automation Systems.
  • Proficiency using CMMS (Computerized Maintenance Management System).
  • Experience dealing with contractors, preparing building project plans and the ability to read blueprints and sketches.
  • Proficiency with computers, particularly with facilities software.
  • Ability to travel between campuses.

Salary Range - Prorated based on FTE
PAYGRADE 28 – $2,360.45 – $2,772.49 biweekly
Posting Detail Information

Employment Group Support Staff (CUPE)
Type of Position Temporary
Employment Type Full Time
Department FACILITIES MANAGEMENT
Primary Location - This position may require you to work at all VCC locations. Downtown
Is this posting only for internal applicants? No
Desired Start Date - May be subject to change 11/01/2023
Position End Date - For Temporary Positions 10/15/2024
Vacation Blackout Dates
Number of Hours per Week 35
Work Schedule - Hours may vary according to the needs of the Department
Monday to Friday, 8:00am – 4:00pm
Eligible for Fortnight No
Special Instructions to Applicant
Vancouver Community College is committed to maintaining a work force that represents the diverse community we serve and we encourage all qualified applicants.
Posting Open Date 09/29/2023
Posting Close Date 05/02/2024
Is this a pooled posting? No

Supplemental Questions

Required fields are indicated with an asterisk (*).

Applicant Documents Needed to Apply

Required Documents
  1. Resume
  2. Cover Letter
Optional Documents