Groundskeeper II

University of Missouri System; Columbia Township (MO); On-site; USD 10,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

Join a dedicated team at a vibrant university where you can contribute to the beauty of the campus. As a Groundskeeper II, you will play a vital role in maintaining the stunning landscapes that enhance the university experience for students, faculty, and visitors. Your responsibilities will include planting, cultivating, and maintaining various plants, as well as operating essential equipment. This position not only allows you to work outdoors but also offers a comprehensive benefits package, making it an excellent opportunity for those who enjoy hands-on work in a collaborative environment. If you are passionate about nature and landscaping, this role is perfect for you.

Benefits

Medical Insurance

Dental Insurance

Vision Insurance

Paid Time Off

Retirement Plan

Educational Fee Discounts

Short- and Long-term Disability

Paid Parental Leave

Paid Caregiver Leave

Qualifications

• Physical capabilities to perform essential functions are necessary.
• Knowledge of tools and methods used in grounds maintenance is essential.

Responsibilities

• Maintain and install campus landscapes and grounds.
• Plant, prune, and cultivate trees, shrubs, and flowers.

Skills

Grounds Maintenance

Landscape Construction

Pesticide Application

Heavy Equipment Operation

Education

High School Diploma

Tools

Tractors

Lawn Mowers

Chain Saws

Job description

At Landscape Services, we take pride in shaping the natural beauty of MU’s campus, transforming it into the Mizzou Botanic Garden—a vibrant, inspiring environment for students, faculty, and visitors alike. Our dedicated team of arborists, designers, and gardeners work together to cultivate and maintain the stunning landscapes that make MU not just a place of learning, but a place to thrive. From preserving mature trees to creating exciting new garden designs, we are committed to making the campus a dynamic and enjoyable space for everyone.

Job Description

Nature and Level of Work

Maintain and install campus landscapes and grounds. Work differs from similar classifications in that a higher degree of knowledge in grounds keeping and landscaping methods must be applied to primary assignments. Review is accomplished through observation of results with particular emphasis on accuracy, efficiency, appearance and conformance with instructions. Functional contacts include co-workers, other service department employees and other University staff and students.

Key Responsibilities

• Plant, transplant and cultivate trees, shrubs and flowers; determine water requirements of plants and turf, irrigate as necessary.
• Prune trees, shrubs and flowers according to standard horticultural practices as necessary to maintain good plant health.
• Identify weeds, insects and diseases; mix and apply pesticides safely, according to label instructions and as directed.
• Apply fertilizers and calibrate application equipment.
• Build stone or tie walls and plant beds; repair landscape irrigation systems.
• Perform general grounds maintenance duties: remove leaves, mow grass, aerate turf, weed beds, sow grass seed and lay sod.
• Perform hand grading, excavating and shovel work. Remove snow from streets and sidewalks.
• Will be on call for snow removal.
• May operate tractors, trucks, lawn mowers, chain saws and miscellaneous equipment.
• Perform maintenance on grounds keeping equipment.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Shift

7:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.; Monday through Friday

Minimum Qualifications

A job offer for this position is contingent on passing a physical examination to determine if the candidate possesses the physical capabilities necessary to perform the essential functions.

• High school diploma or an equivalent combination of education and experience from which comparable knowledge and abilities can be acquired is necessary.
• Knowledge of tools, methods and materials used in grounds maintenance and landscape construction.
• Ability on a daily basis to:
• Grasp, lift, carry and set down heavy objects (50-75 lbs.)
• Shovel snow, climb ladders and operate heavy power equipment
• A valid Missouri driver’s license is required.
• Missouri Certified Public Operators Pesticide License or the ability to obtain within six months after employment is required.

Preferred Qualifications

Two Years of experience in grounds maintenance, landscape construction, or related area.

Anticipated Hiring Range

Salary Range: $16.00 - $16.90 per hour

Grade: GGS-C

University Title: Groundskeeper II

Benefits

This position is eligible for University benefits. As part of your total compensation, the University offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental and vision plans, retirement, paid time off, short- and long-term disability, paid parental leave, paid caregiver leave, and educational fee discounts for all four UM System campuses. For additional information on University benefits, please visit the Faculty & Staff Benefits website at https://www.umsystem.edu/totalrewards/benefits.

Values Commitment

We value the uniqueness of every individual and strive to ensure each person’s success. Contributions from individuals with diverse backgrounds, experiences and perspectives promote intellectual pluralism and enable us to achieve the excellence that we seek in learning, research and engagement. This commitment makes our university a better place to work, learn and innovate.

In your application materials, please discuss your experiences and expertise that support these values and enrich our missions of teaching, research, and engagement.

The University of Missouri System is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Equal Opportunity is and shall be provided for all employees and applicants for employment on the basis of their demonstrated ability and competence without unlawful discrimination on the basis of their race, color, national origin, ancestry, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, disability, or protected veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable state or federal law. This policy applies to all employment decisions including, but not limited to, recruiting, hiring, training, promotions, pay practices, benefits, disciplinary actions and terminations. For more information, visit https://www.umsystem.edu/ums/hr/eeo or call the Director of Employee and Labor Relations at 573-882-2146.

To request ADA accommodations, please call the Director of Accessibility and ADA at 573-884-7278.