Gardener

University of Minnesota; Minneapolis (MN); On-site; USD 38,159 - 43,339; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive wages

Paid holidays

Healthcare benefits

Employee assistance program

Retirement plans with employer contribution

Job summary

The University of Minnesota is seeking a Landscape Maintenance worker for the Twin Cities Campus. This year-round position involves turf care, operating machinery, and leading a crew while maintaining a commitment to safety and teamwork.

Candidates should possess an AA degree in horticulture or relevant experience, a valid driver’s license, and demonstrate strong communication skills. The role offers a competitive pay range and numerous benefits, including healthcare and retirement plans.

Qualifications

• AA degree with one year of gardening/grounds maintenance experience.
• Valid driver's license required.
• Must obtain a pesticide applicator’s license within 30 days of hire.

Responsibilities

• Perform turf care and maintenance activities.
• Lead and train a landscape crew.
• Operate machinery and perform snow removal as needed.

Skills

Knowledge of horticultural practices

Experience in snow and ice management

Ability to operate landscape equipment safely

Strong communication skills

Education

AA degree in horticulture or landscape gardening

High school diploma with relevant experience

Tools

Landscape equipment and machinery

Computer and mobile communication device

Job description

Overview

Teamster Promotional Period runs from March 17, 2022 to March 24, 2022.

This position reports to the Landcare Maintenance Supervisor and is responsible for performing landscape maintenance and landscape construction for FM Landcare on the Twin Cities Campus. The job may be designated as essential.

Responsibilities

• Perform all aspects of turf care, including pesticide application, fertilizing, aerating and mowing.
• Repair, maintain and adjust irrigation equipment.
• Plant and maintain annuals, perennials, shrubs, trees, and turf.
• Prepare and maintain beds, including planting, watering, mulching, and plant replacement.
• Perform snow removal using plows, power brushes, blowers, shovels, and sanding equipment.
• Operate landscape equipment and machinery such as mowers, aerators, skid‑steer loaders (with attachments), weed whips, hedge trimmers, back‑pack blowers, chainsaws, and trucks.
• Lead, direct and train a landscape crew composed primarily of student employees in general gardening duties, safe equipment operating procedures, work planning, site direction, and team building.
• Perform other duties assigned by supervisor.

Work is performed outdoors, exposed to extreme weather year‑round, with extended hours during winter months for snow removal. The position is year‑round, 100% time Teamster Unit 3, and includes a 720‑hour probationary period.

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications:

• AA degree in horticulture, landscape gardening or closely related field with one year of commercial gardening and/or grounds maintenance experience; OR high school diploma with three years of relevant experience.
• Valid driver's license.
• Will obtain a pesticide applicator’s license within 30 days of hire.

Essential Qualification:

Regular attendance is an essential qualification for this position.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:

• Knowledge of horticultural practices, snow and ice management and experience operating landscape equipment safely.
• Ability to twist, bend, stoop, climb ladders, lift up to 50 pounds regularly, reach at and above shoulder height, squat, and kneel.
• Ability to use a computer and mobile communication device.
• Experience operating landscape machines and equipment in a safe and efficient manner.
• Ability to interact and communicate with fellow employees, management, customers, and the general public in a courteous, cooperative, and professional manner.
• Ability to maintain a positive attitude, demeanor, and public image when performing services for customers and the general public at the University.
• Experience working in a decentralized work environment.
• Ability to work in a team environment, lead and motivate part‑time student employees, and prioritize landscape work.
• Strong communication, customer service, and problem‑solving skills.

Benefits

Pay Range: $27.70–$31.46 per hour depending on education/qualifications/experience.

Time Appointment: 75%–100% appointment.

Position Type: Civil‑Service & Non‑Faculty Labor Represented Staff.

The University offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

• Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off.
• Continuous learning opportunities through professional training and degree‑seeking programs supported by the Regents Tuition Benefit Program.
• Low‑cost medical, dental, and pharmacy plans.
• Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts.
• University HSA contributions.
• Disability and employer‑paid life insurance.
• Employee wellbeing program.
• Excellent retirement plans with employer contribution.
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) opportunity.
• Financial counseling services.
• Employee Assistance Program with up to eight free counseling sessions.
• Employee Transit Pass with free or reduced rates in the Twin Cities metro area.

Employment Requirements

Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. The employer presumes prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment.

Equal Opportunity

The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression.