Mechanic-Groundskeeper

Company Information

The Chanticleer Foundation is a non-profit organization that operates a 50-acre public garden in Wayne, PA. The garden is open to the public Wednesday to Sunday, from late March through early November. Chanticleer provides an opportunity for guests to relax and enjoy the various garden areas and vistas on the property. The Chanticleer staff work in a professional, team-oriented, and smoke-free environment. Continual training and education in the green industry is encouraged.

Job Description

The Mechanic/Groundskeeper will keep Chanticleer's fleet of garden machinery in top working condition and perform skilled groundskeeping duties to maintain the beauty and quality of the gardens and grounds. This is a career-level, full-time position well suited to a candidate with demonstrated experience diagnosing and repairing turf, landscape, and small-engine equipment. Reporting to the Grounds Superintendent, the Mechanic/Groundskeeper is responsible for the department's equipment program while contributing directly to the grounds work that defines Chanticleer's visitor experience.

Position Details

• Schedule: 40 hours per week, Monday – Friday, 7:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
• Weekend Work: some weekend, evening, and holiday work required as scheduled
• Compensation: commensurate with experience
• Benefits: Medical, dental, life insurance & disability benefits are provided. 403b participation with generous matching, paid time off, flexible holiday schedule, equipment reimbursement, smoke-free workplace
• Professional Development Opportunities: Support for pesticide applicator licensure and equipment and industry certifications, manufacturer and dealer training programs, mentorship from an experienced Grounds Superintendent, hands-on experience at one of America's most celebrated public gardens, and networking within the public garden and green industry community.

Duties and Responsibilities

Equipment and Shop

• Operate, maintain, and repair all garden machinery, including mowers, tractors, utility vehicles, spreaders, snow removal equipment, string trimmers, hedge trimmers, blowers, chainsaws, and other power equipment
• Inspect machinery and review defects and repair plans with the Grounds Superintendent
• Disassemble, diagnose, and repair engines, transmissions, clutches, transaxles, and hydraulic and hydrostatic systems
• Overhaul engines and service carburetors, blowers, generators, and pumps; rebuild components as needed
• Repair electrical systems, including ignition systems, lights, and instrument panels
• Adjust brakes, replace shocks, and repair radiator and hydraulic leaks
• Repair body damage by welding, filling, and preparing surfaces for priming and painting
• Sharpen and maintain hand tools and cutting equipment, including pruners, shears, edging tools, and weed cutters
• Order replacement parts and supplies; maintain comprehensive service records on all machinery and equipment
• Train staff on safe operation and maintenance of machinery, with refresher courses as needed
• Assist the Grounds Superintendent with the equipment budget and "state of equipment" reports
• Evaluate and recommend new equipment purchases based on operational needs, technology, and cost-effectiveness
• Keep the Grounds Superintendent informed of industry changes and advances in equipment

Grounds

• Maintain visual quality and horticultural standards of assigned areas to meet Chanticleer's high expectations.
• Perform general plant care and grounds maintenance tasks, including:
  • Mow lawns and water plants
  • Edge planting areas and lawns; weed gardens and displays
  • Groom, prune, and care for plants, shrubs, and trees
  • Plant and replant grass, flowers, trees, and shrubs
  • Apply fertilizers, soil amendments, and bio-stimulants
• Manage horticultural waste in an environmentally responsible manner, including debris collection and compost processing.
• Maintain pesticide applicator license, participate in annual training, and apply pesticides as needed.
• Perform general grounds upkeep:
  • Blow and collect leaves
  • Remove trash
  • Snow removal
  • Apply ice/snow melt materials on walkways and driveways
• Scout grounds daily for plant health, safety issues, equipment malfunctions, and maintenance needs.

General

• Assist with building maintenance when required.
• Research and purchase authorized supplies, materials, and equipment parts.
• Report supply needs, equipment issues, and plant status changes to supervisor.
• Commit to ongoing professional development, attending classes and training programs and staying current with horticultural and mechanical best practices.
• Communicate effectively with team members, supervisors, and visitors to ensure smooth operations and a collaborative work environment.
• Adhere to Chanticleer's operational policies, guidelines, and safety procedures.
• Perform additional duties and responsibilities as assigned.

Required Skills and Abilities

• Working knowledge of gas and diesel engines, hydraulic and hydrostatic systems, and electrical systems
• Ability to diagnose and repair turf, landscape, and small-engine equipment
• Proficiency with hand tools, power tools, and shop equipment
• Welding and fabrication skills
• Strong recordkeeping and organizational skills
• Working knowledge of plant care, landscaping principles, and horticultural practices
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to maintaining high-quality grounds
• Excellent time management skills and ability to prioritize repairs and grounds tasks
• Capacity to work independently and collaboratively within a team environment
• Effective communication skills, both verbal and written
• Adaptability to changing weather conditions and seasonal work requirements

Education and Experience

• High school diploma or equivalent required
• Formal training in small-engine, turf equipment, diesel, or agricultural mechanics preferred (certificate, associate degree, or equivalent)
• Minimum of 3 years' experience repairing turf, landscape, or small-engine equipment
• Experience with reel mowers and reel and bedknife grinding strongly preferred
• Grounds, landscape, or public garden experience a plus
• Pennsylvania pesticide applicator's license, or willingness to obtain within 6 months of hire
• Manufacturer or equipment technician certifications a plus

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift and carry up to 50 lbs. regularly
• Capable of standing, walking, and performing physical labor for up to 8 hours daily
• Comfortable working outdoors in various weather conditions, including heat, cold, and rain
• Ability to frequently bend, stoop, kneel, and reach
• Manual dexterity for mechanical repairs using hand and power tools

Work Environment

• Work is performed in the equipment shop and outdoors in the gardens and grounds of Chanticleer
• Employees are exposed to seasonal weather conditions, plant materials, pollen, dust, fuels, lubricants, and shop noise
• Use of personal protective equipment such as gloves, safety glasses, welding protection, and hearing protection is required
• Chanticleer provides the shop tools and equipment needed for the role; candidates are not expected to supply their own tools

Legal Requirements

• Must be legally authorized to work in the United States
• Possess and maintain a valid driver's license with a clean driving record

How to Apply

Please submit your resume, letter of interest, and at least three references via email to: employment@chanticleergarden.org

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. Chanticleer flourishes by embracing multiple perspectives and experiences just as biodiversity strengthens ecosystems. We believe that welcoming people of all abilities, identities, and circumstances strengthens our institution and enhances our capacity to bring joy and learning to all who visit our gardens.