Grounds Laborer/Irrigation Technician

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill; Chapel Hill (NC); On-site; USD 21,000 - 28,000; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

Retail discounts

Child care savings

Performing arts discounts

Job summary

The North Carolina Botanical Garden at UNC-Chapel Hill is seeking a part-time labor assistant to support the installation of automated irrigation zones around the Display Garden. Typical days are Monday–Friday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM with a 30–60 minute lunch, and schedule may vary with weather.

Responsibilities include outdoor labor, operating under the supervision of the horticultural team, and lifting up to 50 lbs. A NC driver’s license and ability to pass a driving record check are required.

Qualifications

• Graduation from high school or equivalent.
• May require North Carolina Pesticide License.
• May require North Carolina Commercial Driver’s License.
• Requires driving and NC driver’s license; driving record check may be required.
• Works outdoors in varying weather conditions.

Responsibilities

• Assist installation of automated irrigation zones around the Display Garden.
• Work Monday–Friday 9:00 AM–5:00 PM with 30–60 minute lunch; days may vary with weather.
• Coordinate with horticulture team for project timeline and tasks.
• Able to lift or move up to 50 lbs. as needed.

Skills

Physical labor outdoors

Irrigation installation/repair

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

North Carolina Pesticide License (may be required)

North Carolina CDL (may be required)

Job description

Please see Special Instructions for more details.

H-1B sponsorship is not available for this position.

Posting Information

Posting Information

Department

Department NC Botanical Garden - 525000

Career Area Facilities and Skilled Trades

Posting Open Date

Posting Open Date 09/14/2026

Application Deadline

Application Deadline 09/24/2026

Position Type

Position Type Temporary Staff (SHRA)

Position Title

Position Number

Position Number 20006649

Vacancy ID

Vacancy ID S028057

Full-time/Part-time

Full-time/Part-time Part-Time Temporary

Hours per week 20

Work Schedule

Monday - Friday, between 9:00 AM and 5:00 PM
(days may vary depending on weather forecast)

One of the best college towns and best places to live in the United States, Chapel Hill has diverse social, cultural, recreation and professional opportunities that span the campus and community.

University employees can choose from a wide range of professional training opportunities for career growth, skill development and lifelong learning and enjoy exclusive perks that include numerous retail and restaurant discounts, savings on local child care centers and special rates for performing arts events.

Primary Purpose of Organizational Unit

The North Carolina Botanical Garden ( NCBG ) has been a leader in native plant conservation, horticulture, and education in the southeastern United States for more than 50 years. As part of The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, we further the University’s tripartite teaching, research, and public service mission through our own mission to inspire understanding, appreciation, and conservation of plants and to advance a sustainable relationship between people and nature. As a garden focused on conserving the biodiversity of southeastern native plants, we recognize that just as biodiversity is critical to a healthy ecosystem, diversity in people and perspectives makes our organization and community stronger. NCBG is committed to creating an environment in our gardens and natural areas where everyone’s voice is heard and everyone feels safe and welcome.

Position Summary

This position will provide labor support for the installation of automated irrigation zones around the Display Garden. Most work days will be 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM with a 30-60 minute, unpaid lunch. Each Friday we will look at the forecast and schedule the work days for the following week.
This position requires driving and NC driver's license; a driving record check will be required.
Estimated duration of appointment - Six months or less

Minimum Education and Experience Requirements

Graduation from high school and some experience in horticultural work; or an equivalent combination of training and experience. Special Licensure or Certification: May require North Carolina Pesticide License; North Carolina Commercial Driver’s License.

Management Preferences

• Ability to perform physical labor outdoors in any weather condition
• Experience with the installation / repair of underground irrigation

Special Physical/Mental Requirements

Able to safely lift or move up to 50 lbs. with or without reasonable accommodation.

Campus Security Authority Responsibilities

Not Applicable.

Special Instructions

H-1B sponsorship is not available for this position.

Office of Human Resources Contact Information

If you experience any problems accessing the system or have questions about the application process, please contact the Office of Human Resources at [phone] or send an email to [e-mail]
Please note: The Office of Human Resources will not be able to provide specific updates regarding position or application status.

Equal Opportunity Employer Statement

The University is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes all to apply without regard to age, color, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, or sexual orientation. We encourage all qualified applicants to apply, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.

Optional and Required Documents

Required Documents

• Curriculum Vitae / Resume

Optional Documents

• Cover Letter
• List of References

Supplemental Questions

Required fields are indicated with an asterisk (*).