Groundskeeper, Landscape Construction

Penn State University; University Park (TX); On-site; USD 30,000 - 45,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage

Robust retirement plans

75% tuition discount for employees and their families

Job summary

Penn State University is seeking a full-time Groundskeeper for Landscape Construction in University Park, Texas. Responsibilities include landscape installation, operating equipment for grounds maintenance, and adhering to safety guidelines. Candidates must have a Pennsylvania Commercial Driver’s License Class A and a Pesticide Applicator Certification. The role requires effective communication skills and 1-2 years of relevant experience. A robust benefits package is provided, including medical, dental, vision coverage, and tuition discounts.

Qualifications

• 1 to 2 years of effective experience in landscape maintenance.
• Must possess Pennsylvania Commercial Driver’s License Class A.
• Must have Pesticide Applicator Certification with Categories 6 and 7.

Responsibilities

• Install and maintain landscape construction projects.
• Operate various vehicles and equipment for groundskeeping.
• Perform basic maintenance on landscaping tools and equipment.
• Plant, prune, and cultivate flowers, trees, and shrubs.

Skills

Landscape construction

Vehicle operation

Effective communication

Pesticide application

Education

Pennsylvania Commercial Driver's License Class A

Pesticide Applicator Certification

Tools

Irrigation equipment

Concrete mixing tools

Landscape maintenance equipment

Job description

Job Description And Position Requirements

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

• Install landscape construction projects and landscape plantings according to specifications, plans, and designs as directed by Lead or Supervisor
• Construct, install, erect, remove, repair, and/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 the landscape for construction projects; clear obstructions including bike racks, benches, posts, signs, fences, trees, plants, etc.; grind stumps; remove, grade, tamp, roll, and compact soil; install mats, rock, gravel, and other materials; replant, repair, reinstall, and otherwise return to pre‑construction condition as directed
• Establish sub‑grades and finish grades for landscape construction projects, lawns, and planting beds
• Mix concrete for patchwork and minor masonry repairs; form and pour small concrete pads; 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 using provided 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 landscape and 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 such as adjusting, cleaning, oiling, greasing, inspecting water level, anti‑freeze, and air pressure of tires; 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 various acceptable methods
• Plant, transplant, prune, weed, feed, spray, and cultivate perennials and other flowers, trees, and shrubs according to specifications
• Remove brush, leaves, grass clippings, paper, spoil, cinders, and rubbish from walks, roads, curbs, parking lots, lawns, and other University property; remove paint and other materials defacing the exterior of University property
• Remove snow and ice from roads, parking lots, walks, shrubs, trees, etc.; apply deicing 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

Job Requirements: Requires the use of commercial English, grammar and arithmetic such as addition, subtraction, multiplication and division, including decimals and fractions; simple use of formulas, charts, tables, drawings, specifications, schedules, wiring diagrams, together with the use of adjustable measuring instruments, grades and the like requiring interpretation in their various applications; or the posting, preparation, interpretation, use and checking of reports, forms, records and comparable data. Requires a Pennsylvania Commercial Driver’s License Class A with Endorsement N and a Pennsylvania Pesticide Applicator Certification with Categories 6 and 7. Over 1 year up to and including 2 years of effective experience.

Work Schedule: 6:00 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.

Days Off: Saturday, Sunday

Qualifications

• 1 to 2 years of effective experience
• Pennsylvania Commercial Driver's License Class A with Endorsement N – Pennsylvania Department of Transportation
• Pesticide Applicator Certification – Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture (Categories 6 and 7)

Background Checks / Clearances: Employment requires successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies, motor vehicle records check, federal Department of Transportation testing for alcohol and controlled substances (49 CFR Part 40), and physical examination requirements as per PA. CODE 231.85.

Penn State does not sponsor or take over sponsorship of a staff employment Visa. Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S.

Collective Bargaining Agreement

This position is part of the bargaining unit represented by Teamsters Local Union No. 8. The collective bargaining agreement governs salary and benefits.

Salary And Benefits

Salary and progression details are outlined in the collective bargaining agreement. Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full‑time employees, including comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, robust retirement plans, paid time off (holidays, vacation, sick time), and a generous 75 % tuition discount for employees, spouses, and children.

EEO IS THE LAW

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.

Penn State is committed to and accountable for advancing equity, respect, and belonging. We embrace individuality and foster a culture of inclusion.