Overview:

The Landscaper I/Gardener is a member of Facilities Operations and provides assistance in support of the Campus Grounds Operations by maintaining, preserving and improving the university grounds. Follows all University safety rules and regulations at all times and is proficient in basic grounds maintenance, horticultural practices and landscaping operations. The normal work week is Monday – Friday 6:00 am – 2:30 pm. based on business needs, other work schedules may be assigned or required.

Responsibilities:

• Observes university and departmental safety regulations, uses appropriate personal protective equipment and performs all work in a safe manner. Ensures proper care in the safe use and maintenance of all vehicles, tools and equipment used.
• Operate small power equipment and attachments such as string trimmers, hedge shears, leaf blowers, etc.
• Operate equipment under 26,000 Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) for hauling soil, leaves, plants, wood and other items.
• Perform snow and ice control operations by operating snow removal equipment and/or hand tools.
• Remove litter and debris from campus grounds.
• Assist with the maintenance, preservation and improvement of University grounds to include installing and maintaining basic grounds landscape plantings, pruning, mulching and weeding.
• Planting of plant material such as groundcover, shrubs, flowers.
• Landscaper 1 may perform Landscaper 2 skills for training purposes.
• May be asked to coordinate assigned work of other Landscaper 1’s and casuals, (and shop helpers and workers during snow removal) at the direction of the supervisor.
• As necessary, perform overtime and after-hours work assignments. May be required to carry a two-way radio.
• Provide regular feedback to staff; keep superior informed; be responsive to directives from superiors; support the unit, departmental and institutional goals.
• Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

• To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily.
• Possess a high school diploma or an equivalency.
• Must poses the physical dexterity and stamina required for grounds and landscape maintenance duties.
• Must be able to effectively communicate, both verbally and in writing.
• As an essential employee, must be available to work overtime involving both early as well as late hours and weekends. Must be able to respond promptly to emergency call-ins during inclement weather including snow and ice conditions.
• Must possess a valid driver’s license.

• 
  Stand or walk 2 - 4 hours at one time, up to 8 hours per day;
• Sit for less than 2 hours during an 8 hour day, except while operating mowers or trimming operations, or during snow removal operations;
• During grass mowing or trimming operation or snow removal operations, sits for 2-4 hours at one time, up to 8 hours per day;
• During grass mowing and trimming operations or snow removal operations, operates motor vehicles (including mowers) and/or heavy equipment (e.g., forklift, high reach, cherry picker) constantly (over 67% of the workday);
• Lift or carry up to 50 pounds frequently (34 – 66% of the workday) and 75 pounds occasionally (less than 33% of the workday);
• Lift up to 75 pounds to waist height and up to 50 pounds in a range of motions from floor to overhead:
• Frequently use hands for simple grasping, fine manipulation, pushing or pulling (34 – 66% of the workday);
• Occasionally push or pull with forces up to 75 pounds, climb stairs or ladders, dig or pick, use jack hammer or air spade, crawl, lift overhead, lie down, or knee stand (less than 33% of the work day);
• Frequently push or pull with forces up to 50 pounds, bend, squat, kneel, or reach overhead (34 – 66% of the work day);
• Work outdoors in a variety of temperatures and environmental conditions;
• Possess ability to work at heights, full range of body motions and physical agility, and ability to maintain balance.

Standard Weekly Hours: 40.00 Eligible for Overtime: Yes Benefits Eligible: Yes Probationary Period: Per union contract Essential Services Personnel (see policy for detail): Yes Physical Capacity Exam Required: Yes Valid Driver's License Required: Yes Union Code: SEU-Service Employees Inter Union : #LI-NC1