Gardener

Saint Mary's College of California; Moraga (CA); On-site; USD 35,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

Saint Mary's College of California is seeking a Gardener to maintain the college’s grounds, which includes tasks such as pruning, planting, mowing, and irrigation system management. The ideal candidate will have at least five years of experience in landscaping and groundskeeping, along with a valid California driver’s license.

This role emphasizes landscaping equipment operation and maintenance, ensuring a well-kept campus environment conducive to learning and community events.

Qualifications

• Minimum of five (5) years in irrigation, groundskeeping, landscaping, gardening, or related outdoor maintenance work.
• Valid California driver’s license required, must be insured by the college’s provider.

Responsibilities

• Maintain and cultivate college grounds including trimming, planting, and pest control.
• Oversee and maintain irrigation systems and landscape features.
• Conduct routine safety inspections and maintain machinery and equipment.

Skills

Working knowledge of grounds-keeping equipment

Education

High school diploma or GED

Job description

Job Title

Gardener

Job Summary

Under direct supervision of the Grounds Manager, the Gardener is responsible for the maintenance, cultivation, and overall care of the college’s grounds. The role includes pruning, trimming, planting, irrigation, mowing, weeding, pest control, and the safe operation and upkeep of landscaping equipment, with a particular emphasis on landscape irrigation systems.

Essential Responsibilities

Pruning, Trimming & Planting

• Prune trees and shrubs and assess site conditions for new plantings (sun, shade, irrigation, soil).
• Identify and prune various plant species, ensuring healthy growth and design objectives.
• Maintain special gardens, fountains, and other campus landscape features.
• Decorate the Chapel and Chapel Plaza for seasonal events and provide plants for commencement.
• Oversee installation, maintenance, and repair of campus irrigation systems, including valves, heads, piping, and timers.
• Train other staff members in basic repair techniques.

Lawn & Plant Care

• Mow and edge lawns.
• Control weeds with appropriate chemicals.
• Aerate and fertilize lawns and flower beds.
• Control pests through pesticide application, digging, and trapping methods.
• Assist with minor irrigation problems, such as replacing sprinkler heads.

Campus Clean‑Up (2 hours per day)

• Collect litter, leaves, and debris around campus facilities and grounds.
• Empty garbage/trash receptacles.
• Clean storm drains and building gutters seasonally.

Maintenance and Operations of Machinery

• Conduct routine safety inspections of machinery and equipment.
• Clean and service equipment such as lawn mowers, weed eaters, blowers, hedge trimmers, and chainsaws.
• Operate lawn mowers, weed eaters, blowers, hedge trimmers, chainsaws, tractors, wood chippers, trucks, and rototillers.

Experience and Qualifications

Education: High school diploma or GED preferred.

Experience: Minimum of five (5) years in irrigation, groundskeeping, landscaping, gardening, or related outdoor maintenance work.

Skills/Abilities

• Working knowledge of grounds‑keeping equipment, materials, and tools.

Licenses & Certifications

Valid California driver’s license required. Must be able to be insured by the college’s provider.

Equal Employment Opportunity

Saint Mary’s College of California is an equal opportunity employer committed to fostering an inclusive and respectful work environment consistent with its Lasallian values.