Groundskeeper, Landscape Construction

The Pennsylvania State University; State College (Centre County); On-site; USD 30,000 - 40,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical coverage

Dental coverage

Vision coverage

75% tuition discount

Job summary

The Pennsylvania State University is looking for a full-time Groundskeeper to join their team in State College, PA. The role involves installing landscape construction projects, maintaining grounds, and operating a variety of equipment. Candidates must have 1-2 years of effective experience and hold a valid Pennsylvania Commercial Driver's License. Penn State offers a competitive benefits package, including medical and tuition discounts.

The position requires strong skills in landscape maintenance and adherence to safety practices.

Qualifications

• 1-2 years of effective experience in groundskeeping or related field.
• Valid Pennsylvania Commercial Driver's License Class A with Endorsement N.
• Valid Pennsylvania Pesticide Applicator Certification—Categories 6 and 7.

Responsibilities

• Install landscape projects and plantings according to specifications.
• Construct and repair hardscape structures and maintain landscape.
• Operate various vehicles and maintenance equipment.

Skills

Effective experience in groundskeeping

Use of commercial English and arithmetic

Valid Pennsylvania Commercial Driver's License Class A

Valid Pennsylvania Pesticide Applicator Certification

Ability to operate motor vehicles

Job description

JOB DESCRIPTION

Penn State is searching for a full‑time Groundskeeper, Landscape Construction – Grade 6 to join the team.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Install landscape construction projects and plantings according to specifications, plans, and designs as directed by Lead or Supervisor.
• Construct, install, erect, remove, repair, or replace decorative or functional hardscape structures such as rockwork, ponds, patios, walkways, steps, fences, planters, edging, erosion control, swales, and similar drainage projects.
• Prepare landscape for construction: clear obstructions, grind stumps, remove, grade, tamp, roll, and compact soil; install mats, rock, gravel, and other materials; replant, repair, reinstall, and restore to pre‑construction condition.
• Establish sub‑grades and finish grades for construction projects, lawns and planting beds.
• Mix concrete for patchwork and minor masonry repairs; form and pour small concrete pads for memorial plaques, bench pads, signposts; position and dismantle forms.
• Install, maintain, troubleshoot, and adjust basic irrigation equipment including sprinkler heads and waterlines; prepare equipment for seasonal changes.
• Mix compost and mulch materials per recipes; apply water as instructed.
• Operate various vehicles and equipment including trucks, tractors, high‑lift, backhoe, skid‑steer loader, wheel loader, mixer, mini‑excavator, tree spade, hydroseeder, mowers, spreaders, landscape trailers, and other light construction equipment.
• Load and unload equipment on truck or trailer; transport equipment to job site; attach and detach equipment accessories.
• Perform basic maintenance on vehicles and equipment: adjust, clean, oil, grease, inspect water level, anti‑freeze, and tire air pressure; repair and adjust equipment as required.
• Set up safety equipment and barriers around work zone.
• Cut, trim, fertilize, spray, aerate, roll, seed, re‑seed, and water lawns; control pests using acceptable methods.
• Plant, transplant, prune, weed, feed, spray, and cultivate perennials, flowers, trees, and shrubs per specifications.
• Remove brush, leaves, grass clippings, paper, debris, cinders, and rubbish from university property; remove paint and other defacing materials.
• Remove snow and ice from roads, parking lots, walks, shrubs, trees, and apply de‑icing material.
• Maintain tools, equipment, and work area in a clean and orderly condition; report repair needs or unusual conditions to Supervisor or Lead.
• Coordinate with trades, equipment operators, and contractors in the field as required.

QUALIFICATIONS

Minimum requirements include:

• 1‑2 years of effective experience in groundskeeping or related field.
• Use of commercial English, grammar, and arithmetic (addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, decimals, fractions, simple formulas, charts, tables, drawings, specifications, schedules, wiring diagrams, and adjustable measuring instruments).
• Valid Pennsylvania Commercial Driver's License Class A with Endorsement N.
• Valid Pennsylvania Pesticide Applicator Certification—Categories 6 and 7.
• Ability to operate motor vehicles and perform required equipment maintenance.

WORK SCHEDULE

6:00 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.

DAYS OFF

Saturday and Sunday.

BACKGROUND CHECKS / CLEARANCES

Employment requires successful completion of background check(s) per university policy. A valid driver's license and motor vehicle record check are required. Position is subject to federal Department of Transportation testing for alcohol and controlled substances and to physical examination per PA. Authorize U.S. employment; the university does not sponsor visa sponsorship.

BENEFITS

Penn State offers a competitive benefits package for full‑time employees, including medical, dental, and vision coverage, retirement plans, paid time off (holidays, vacation, sick), and a 75% tuition discount for employees and eligible families.

EEO STATEMENT

Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814‑865‑1473.

FEDERAL & STATE LABOR POSTERS

Federal Contractors Labor Law Poster, PA State Labor Law Poster, Penn State Policies, and Copyright Information are available on request.