Gardening Specialist, Short-term, Temporary

Sonoma State University; Sonoma (CA); On-site; USD 41,693 - 58,389; Full time

Job summary

Sonoma State University is seeking a full-time Gardening Specialist to manage campus landscaping and horticultural tasks. This position requires experience in gardening, maintenance of irrigation systems, and safe pesticide handling. A valid California driver’s license and pest control certification are necessary. The role offers a monthly salary between $3,736 and $5,232 and is subject to renewal based on performance. Apply to enhance the ecological balance of campus environments.

Qualifications

• Minimum two years of experience in maintaining landscaped areas or general grounds.
• At least one year of experience in maintenance of irrigation systems or nursery plants.
• Experience with safe use and handling of pesticides required.

Responsibilities

• Perform a wide variety of gardening work including sprinkler repair and horticultural spray.
• Apply sustainable horticultural practices and Integrated Pest Management (IPM).
• Work independently and as part of a team.

Skills

Horticultural practices

Communication skills

Pesticide handling

Tools

Microsoft Office

Google Suite

Job description

Job Summary

This is a 3‑month appointment that may be renewed based on performance, administrative, and budgetary considerations. The Gardening Specialist reports to the Landscape Manager and occasionally works under additional direction from the Facilities Management team.

Responsibilities

• Perform a wide variety of gardening work, including sprinkler repair, horticultural spray work, plant propagation, and nursery work on campus properties.
• Apply sustainable horticultural practices and Integrated Pest Management (IPM) principles to maintain plant health and ecological balance.
• Work independently and as part of a team as assigned by the Landscape Manager.

Key Qualifications

• Minimum two years of experience in maintaining landscaped areas or general grounds.
• At least one year of experience in maintenance, repair, or modification of irrigation systems, specialized pest control, or cultivation of nursery plants.
• Experience with safe use and handling of pesticides required.
• Beginning proficiency with Microsoft Office Word and Excel; knowledge of Google Suite, a computerized work control system, and PeopleSoft preferred.
• Valid California driver’s license for operation of vehicles or equipment.
• Valid pest control license or certification (Pest Control Adviser, Qualified Applicator License or Certificate from the California Department of Pesticide Regulations).
• Successful completion of a pre‑placement exam.

Salary and Benefits

This is a full‑time, temporary, non‑exempt position. The CSU classification step range is $3,736 – $5,232 per month (Steps 1 – 18). Initial step placement does not exceed Step 3 ($3,887 per month). The university reserves the right to terminate the appointment earlier. Eligible employees are covered by CSUEU collective bargaining agreement Article 17.10.

Equal Opportunity and Mandated Reporting

The University is an affirmative action/equal opportunity employer. Qualified applicants are considered regardless of race, religion, color, national origin, ancestry, age, sex, gender, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, genetic information, medical condition, disability, marital status, or protected veteran status. This position may be a mandated reporter under the California Child Abuse and Neglect Reporting Act and must comply with CSU Executive Order 1083.

Application Process

This position is open until filled. Submit your application, cover letter, and resume by 8 am on Wednesday, May 13, 2026.