Grounds Manager in Training, SSC / Multiple Locations - Traveling Manager

Grounds Manager In Training

We are hiring immediately for a Grounds Manager in Training position.

SSC invests in our employees with training and growth opportunities, but the benefits don't stop there, SSC offers a comprehensive benefits package and we are also excited to offer same day pay! At SSC we truly believe that our people are our greatest asset.

SSC Services for Education is a nationwide best in class facility service provider. As a member of Compass Group we create clean, safe, and distraction free learning environments for students of all ages. With a focus on a people first culture, growth opportunities, and supporting local communities we set the stage for a meaningful career in educational facilities nationwide.

Job Summary Step into a career where you can grow your leadership skills and make a lasting impact on campus landscapes through our Grounds Manager in Training (MIT) Program. This 12-month, hands-on experience is designed for recent graduates and early-career professionals who are eager to develop the skills needed to become an Assistant Director in facilities management.

As a Grounds MIT, you'll gain comprehensive exposure to grounds operations, sustainability practices, and team leadership. From maintaining turf and landscapes to managing seasonal projects and client relationships, this program provides a career-launching opportunity to learn every aspect of grounds management in a people-first organization.

Who We're Looking For Our Grounds MITs are adaptable, hands-on problem solvers who thrive in outdoor environments and are excited to grow into leadership. We look for:

• Adaptability: Thrives in diverse accounts and seasonal changes.
• Communication: Builds trust with teams, leadership, and clients.
• Analytical Thinking: Applies logic to scheduling, budgeting, and project planning.
• Leadership Potential: Shows readiness to confidently guide teams.
• Mobility: Embraces travel, relocation, and career growth opportunities.

Why Join Us? The Grounds MIT Program is more than trainingit's the start of your career in facilities leadership. Over 12 months, you'll develop technical expertise, business knowledge, and the leadership skills to take on responsibility for teams, projects, and client relationships. If you're passionate about the outdoors, sustainability, and leading people, this is your opportunity to grow with a company that truly puts its people first.

What You'll Learn & Do

Operations & Procedures

• Gain hands-on experience in turf care, landscaping, irrigation, and equipment operation.
• Learn seasonal tasks and sustainability best practices.

Leadership Development

• Supervise grounds crews and contractors.
• Build skills in training, coaching, and safety management.

Business Acumen

• Develop skills in cost estimating, vendor management, and project planning.
• Strengthen your understanding of budgeting, labor management, and reporting.

Professional Skills

• Adapt to regional and seasonal differences in grounds management.
• Build confidence in project management and client service.

Timeline of Development

• Months 14: Field immersion; learn equipment operation, safety, and seasonal processes.
• Months 58: Lead small crews; practice scheduling, work order management, and reporting.
• Months 912: Step into acting supervisor responsibilities with client exposure, cost estimating, and small project leadership.

Stretch Assignments You'll gain real-world experience by:

• Managing a small crew for a full week, including scheduling and safety oversight.
• Leading a seasonal grounds project (e.g., mulch install, snow prep, irrigation startup/shutdown).
• Creating a cost estimate for a small landscaping project.
• Presenting a grounds improvement proposal to a client.

How We Measure Readiness

• Successfully leads a crew with no safety incidents.
• Demonstrates accurate work order and schedule tracking.
• Submits a budget draft for labor and seasonal supplies.
• Earns positive client feedback on improvement proposals.
• Validates technical skills in equipment operation and irrigation troubleshooting.

Program Completion & Promotion At program completion, MITs must demonstrate mastery of 8090% of operational and leadership competencies, complete all stretch assignments, and receive positive client/mentor evaluations. Successful graduates are then eligible for promotion into Assistant Director roles within the grounds service line.

Enhance your quality of life through our comprehensive benefits:

• Medical/Dental/Vision Insurance
• 401K with Company Match
• Disability Insurance
• Life Insurance/AD
• Associate Shopping Program
• Health and Wellness Programs
• Discount Marketplace & Employee shopping program
• Identity Theft Protection
• Pet Insurance
• And More

Associates may also be eligible for paid and/or unpaid time off benefits in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws. For positions in Washington State, Maryland, or to be performed Remotely, click here for paid time off benefits information.

Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis.

SSC maintains a drug-free workplace.

SSC & Compass Group: Achieving leadership in the facility service industry

Compass Group is an equal opportunity employer. At Compass, we are committed to treating all Applicants and Associates fairly based on their abilities, achievements, and experience without regard to race, national origin, sex, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other classification protected by law. Qualified candidates must be able to perform the essential functions of this position satisfactorily with or without a reasonable accommodation. Disclaimer: this job post is not necessarily an exhaustive list of all essential responsibilities, skills, tasks, or requirements associated with this position. While this is intended to be an accurate reflection of the position posted, the Company reserves the right to modify or change the essential functions of the job based on business necessity.

SSC