Under the direction of the Supervisor, Landscape and Irrigation Services in the Department of Facilities Services (DFS), the Athletic Field Specialist performs all aspects of specialized field and turf maintenance for the Landscape and Irrigation Services division. This role ensures an aesthetically pleasing, safe, and clean University environment. The Field Specialist collaborates with the Athletic and other University departments as needed in a high-quality, respectful, and timely manner.

Duties:

• Perform various athletic fields maintenance operations such as mowing, edging, trimming, blowing, striping, fertilizing, aerification, power washing, trash removal, trap installations, and erosion control.
• Create layouts, mark, and line grass and play areas for practice and competitions; line with appropriate marking materials or equipment to delineate the area of play and restricting lines as prescribed and established by league and sport rules; grade and water when necessary.
• Safely and effectively operate powered equipment including, but not limited to, power mowers, edgers, weed eaters, chainsaws, roto-tillers, sprayers, blowers, and tractors. Inspect equipment prior to each use including checking oil and fluid levels, confirming proper placement of guards and shields.
• Prepare and properly maintain all required records, including work activity reports, work orders, supplies or materials purchased or used, chemical use reports, water loss/use reports, etc.
• Maintain the inventory of tools, equipment, and supplies issued, to ensure that all are available and in usable condition when needed. Inform Supervisor, Landscape and Irrigation Services when supplies are needed or equipment needs servicing.
• Assist team members in performing assigned duties and work as necessary to meet deadlines and maintain schedules. Accept changes in work assignments demonstrating a commitment to flexibility and teamwork.
• Immediately report any accidents or injuries to the supervisor. Report any unsafe conditions observed or encountered while completing assigned work. Ensure that all work is completed in a safe manner at all times, in compliance with adopted standards. This includes the proper use of Personal Protective Equipment (P.P.E.) and the following of safe work practices. Comply with all applicable regulatory agency standards, requirements, laws, and regulations.
• Mix and apply fertilizers and other chemicals, according to instructions or documented best practices. This includes filling out chemical use reports and the pesticide storage area log. Notify Supervisor, Landscape and Irrigation Services or the Manager of Landscape Services when diseases or pests are observed affecting landscape plant materials.
• Other duties as assigned.
• Uphold University mission through work performed.

Skills and Qualifications:

• Required: Graduation from high school or its equivalent. Minimum of three (3) years of athletic field maintenance experience. Working knowledge of landscaping installation and maintenance techniques and equipment. Must be able to organize and properly handle equipment, materials, documents, and keep appropriate records. English written and verbal communication and interpersonal skills are required. Must consistently project a professional demeanor and positive attitude, and be able to effectively and professionally communicate with and answer inquiries from visitors and the University community.
• Must be able to lift up to 80 pounds, and lift and carry up to 50 pounds for 100 feet. Must hold a valid California Driver's license, maintain an acceptable DMV driving record, and remain insurable by University insurance carrier at all times while employed. Must be able to bring a current DMV driving record printout on the first day of employment. Willingness and ability to periodically work overtime hours, respond to emergency calls after hours/weekends, and work rotating weekend shifts. Must be flexible to accept assignments in various Campus locations, as well as changes in assignments. Basic computer skills and competency with Microsoft Office is required. Analytical and problem-solving skills to successfully resolve issues.
• Qualified individuals should be able to articulate a strong commitment to diversity, and have the ability to work effectively with individuals from different backgrounds.

Additional Information:

• Offers of employment are contingent upon successful completion of a criminal, education, and employment screening. Qualified individuals with criminal histories will be considered for employment in compliance with applicable laws.
• This is a Regular, Nonexempt, 40-hour per week position.
• Expected Pay Range: $20.70 - $23.00 per hour. The above pay range reflects what Pepperdine University reasonably expects to pay for this position at the time of posting. Actual compensation may vary based on relevant factors such as work experience, market conditions, education/training, and skill level. In addition to base pay, Pepperdine offers a robust and highly competitive benefits package.

Pepperdine is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer and does not unlawfully discriminate on the basis of any status or condition protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.