Grounds Machinery Operator - Temporary

Ontario University Athletics; Guelph; On-site; CAD 41,000 - 44,000; Full time

Job summary

University of Guelph is seeking a Grounds Machinery Operator for the Maintenance and Energy Services department. The role covers 13 positions and involves operating a range of light machinery and vehicles to support grounds and field maintenance.

Position is temporary full-time with multiple shift options, including day, afternoon, and night shifts, with overtime as needed. Candidates must have Grade 12, a DZ license, and prior equipment experience.

Qualifications

• Grade 12 education is required.
• Minimum 1 year of experience operating tractors, small loaders, mowers and related equipment.
• Minimum 1 year of snow removal experience; ability to read schedules and instructions.

Responsibilities

• Safely operate a variety of equipment including mowers, loaders, tractors, chain saws and woodchippers.
• Safely operate Grounds vehicles including CVOR trucks and snow removal equipment.
• Assist with installing fence, signage, garden furniture and salt bins.
• Cut grass and maintain sports fields; manage outside waste pickup.
• Maintain records and perform equipment circle checks; follow University policies.

Skills

Interpersonal skills

Oral communication

Teamwork

Safety awareness

Education

Grade 12 education

Tools

DZ license

Job description

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Primary Category Page: Staff and Management

Division: Physical Resources

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

1 Temporary Full-Time from September 14, 2026 to April 18, 2027
12 Temporary Full-Time from November 2, 2026 to April 18, 2027

Variety of Shift Options Available:

Shift Option 1: Day Shift, Monday - Friday from 6:00am - 2:30pm

Shift Option 2: Afternoon Shift, Monday - Friday from 2:00pm - 10:30pm

Shift Option 3: Night Shift, Monday - Friday from 10:00pm - 6:30am

Number of Positions: 13

If you are a current employee of the University of Guelph you must apply on the internal Career Page in order to be considered as an internal applicant.
Career Opportunities (sapsf.com)

Reporting to the Manager, Grounds department, theGrounds Machinery Operatorwill 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 (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
• Responsible for outside waste pickup
• 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
• Minimum of 1 year of snow removal experience
• 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.

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.

Employee Type: Temporary
Position Number: 10912069
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:08/31/2026
Close Date:09/07/2026