Grounds Machine Operator - Temporary Part-Time Weekends

University of Guelph; Guelph; On-site; CAD 42,000 - 44,000; Part time

Job summary

University of Guelph in Guelph, ON is seeking a Grounds Machinery Operator to safely operate light equipment as part of the Grounds’ landscape and maintenance team. The role supports multiple shifts, including weekends, with 24-hour weekly coverage.

You'll drive mowers, tractors, loaders, and related gear, perform inspections, and keep records. A valid DZ license and Grade 12 are required; prior experience and safety awareness are essential.

Qualifications

• Grade 12 education is required.
• Valid DZ driver’s license is required.
• Minimum 1 year of experience operating tractors, small loaders, mowers, and related equipment.
• Knowledge of established safety practices and commitment to safe work practices.
• Ability to read and interpret schedules, equipment directions, and instructions.
• Excellent interpersonal and oral communication skills are required.
• Ability to work effectively both individually and as a member of a team.

Responsibilities

• Safely operate mowers, loaders, tractors, chainsaws, woodchipper and related equipment.
• Safely operate CVOR vehicles, snow removal equipment, and 4‑wheel drive vehicles.
• Assist with installation of fence and signage.
• Assist with installation and repair of garden and street furniture, bicycle racks and salt bins.
• Cut grass and maintain sports fields.
• Follow all University policies and procedures.
• Maintain accurate records and complete equipment checks.

Skills

Tractor operation

Mower operation

Loader operation

Safety practices

Teamwork

Reading schedules

Education

Grade 12 education

Tools

DZ license

Job description

Select how often (in days) to receive an alert: Location: Guelph, ON, CA, N1G 2W1

Primary Category Page: Staff and Management

Division: Physical Resources

Requisition ID: 2983

Department:Maintenance and Energy Services
Position covered by the Collective Agreement withthe Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE), Local 1334

Temporary part-time weekends. See options below for details:

Option 1:
Contract from November 2, 2026 to April 18, 2027
Weekend – Day Shift, Saturday & Sunday, 6:00am - 6:30pm (24 hours/week)
1 positions available

Option 2:
Contract from November 2, 2026 to May 28, 2027
Weekend - Day Shift, Saturday & Sunday, 6:00am - 6:30pm (24 hours/week)
2 positions available

Option 3:
Contract from November 2, 2026 to April 18, 2027
Weekend – Night Shift, Friday & Saturday, 6:00pm - 6:30am (24 hours/week)
2 positions available

Option 4:
Contract from November 2, 2026 to May 28, 2027
Weekend – Night Shift, Friday & Saturday, 6:00pm - 2:30am (16 hours/week)
1 position available

Total Number of Positions: 6

Reporting to the Manager, Grounds department, the Grounds Machinery Operator will be responsible for the safe operation of a variety of light machinery and related equipment used in Grounds’ landscape and maintenance operations.

WHAT WILL YOU DO?

• Safely operate a variety of equipment including but not limited to mowers, loaders, farm tractors, chain saws, woodchipper, hydraulic sprayers, and other related equipment
• Safely operate a variety of Grounds vehicles including but not limited to CVOR vehicles (dump trucks), snow removal equipment, and 4-wheel drive vehicles
• Assist with the installation of fence and signage
• Assist with installation and repair of garden and street furniture, bicycle racks and salt bins
• Cut grass and maintain numerous sports fields
• Follow all University policies and procedures
• Maintain accurate records, and complete circle checks of equipment
• Performs other job related duties as assigned including equal or lower classifications

WHAT MUST YOU HAVE?

• Grade 12 education
• Valid DZ driver’s license
• Minimum of 1 year of experience in the operation of tractors, small loaders, mowers, and related equipment
• Knowledge of established safety practices and commitment to safe work practices
• Ability to read and interpret schedules, equipment directions, and instructions
• Excellent interpersonal and oral communication skills are required
• Ability to work effectively both individually and as a member of a team

WHAT WILL GIVE YOU THE EDGE?

• Chainsaw certification
• Previous training on CVOR regulations

The successful candidate will be required to provide a current and acceptable driver’s abstract as a condition of employment and will be required to successfully complete an independent third-party driving assessment.

The incumbents must be available to respond to emergency call-ins, particularly during snow season, but occasionally at other times of year as well. Some shift work and overtime may be required.

Employee Type: Temporary
Position Number: 10924849
Classification: CUPEBand 4
0-3 Month Rate: $30.47 per hour
Job Rate: $32.07 per hour
Vacancy: Original
Work Location: Main

At the University of Guelph, fostering a culture of inclusion is an institutional imperative. The University invites and encourages applications from all qualified individuals, including from groups that are traditionally underrepresented in employment, who may contribute to further diversification of our Institution.

Posting Date:10/13/2026
Close Date:10/20/2026