Campus Landscape Specialist: Turf, Irrigation & Care

Duke University; Durham (NC); On-site; USD 57,308,000 - 68,770,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

comprehensive medical and dental care

retirement benefits

family-friendly programs

Job summary

Duke University is seeking a Landscape Specialist to maintain and enhance our historic landscapes across campus. You will work independently and with a team, applying fertilizers, herbicides, and plant materials while following safety standards to keep grounds healthy, attractive, and functional year-round.

This role includes storm response and extended hours during emergencies, with opportunities to grow horticultural skills and contribute to a sustainable campus environment through ongoing

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Associate degree in Horticulture, Turf Management, Landscape Management, or related field strongly preferred.
• North Carolina Pesticide Applicator License or ability to obtain within six months of hire.
• Valid North Carolina driver's license.
• Two years of experience in landscaping, grounds maintenance, horticulture, irrigation systems, turf management, or related field; equivalent combinations of education and experience will be considered.

Responsibilities

• Maintain Duke University's landscapes and grounds through trimming, edging, pruning, weeding, mulching, planting, fertilizing, and other landscape maintenance activities.
• Apply herbicides, pesticides, fungicides, fertilizer, seed, bulbs, and plant materials in accordance with established standards and safety guidelines.
• Calculate and prepare proper mixtures and application rates for landscape materials, including fertilizers, herbicides, pesticides, topsoil, and other amendments.
• Monitor landscape health by identifying common plant diseases, pests, and turf issues and recommending appropriate corrective actions.
• Perform basic troubleshooting, maintenance, and repair of irrigation systems to support healthy landscape growth.
• Participate in ongoing professional development and training programs related to turf management, irrigation, herbicide application, pest control, and horticultural best practices.
• Assist with storm response, weather-related cleanup, and recovery efforts, which may require extended work hours during emergency situations.
• Remove litter, debris, and unwanted vegetation to maintain attractive and safe outdoor spaces.
• Support seasonal landscape enhancement projects and contribute to the continuous improvement of Duke's outdoor environments.
• Follow all safety procedures while operating equipment, machinery, vehicles, and specialized landscape tools.

Skills

Landscape maintenance

Turf management

Horticulture

Seasonal grounds care

Pest/disease identification

Irrigation systems

Safety procedures

Team collaboration

Independent work

Weather adaptability

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Associate degree in Horticulture, Turf Management, Landscape Management, or related field

Job description

Duke University is seeking a Landscape Specialist to maintain and enhance our historic landscapes across campus. You will work independently and with a team, applying fertilizers, herbicides, and plant materials while following safety standards to keep grounds healthy, attractive, and functional year-round.

This role includes storm response and extended hours during emergencies, with opportunities to grow horticultural skills and contribute to a sustainable campus environment through ongoing