Groundskeeper & Vehicle Operator

U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs; City of Syracuse (NY); On-site; USD 32,000 - 42,000; Full time

Job summary

U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs at the Syracuse VA Medical Center seeks a Gardener within the Facility Maintenance Service. This role supports the grounds, planting, and seasonal maintenance to ensure safe, welcoming grounds for veterans and staff.

The position requires operating a range of lawn and snow equipment, planning seasonal tasks, and readiness to respond to emergencies. Typical hours are 6:00am–3:30pm, with fall night shifts for snow operations.

Qualifications

• Selective Placement Factor (SPF) requires a current/valid State Driver's License.
• Screen-out: ability to perform duties of Gardener (Motor Vehicle Operator) with normal supervision.
• Experience operating a variety of gasoline and diesel-powered equipment (mowers, weed whackers, vacuum, leaf blower, garden tractor, power sweeper).

Responsibilities

• Operates gasoline and diesel-powered equipment such as self-propelled mowers, weed whackers, vacuum, leaf blower, garden tractor with wagon and power sweeper.
• Determines quantities of plants, seeds, fertilizer and other materials needed for specific areas.
• Selects fungicides, insecticides and herbicides for plant protection.
• Starts new plants in seed beds or cold frames and manages moisture, temperature, humidity and ventilation for germination.
• Plans regular and recurring seasonal tasks and maintenance schedules.
• Coordinates snow removal according to policy.
• Responds to emergencies such as inclement weather or floods.
• Keeps records of plants started and fertilizer used.
• Work Schedule: 6:00am–3:30pm; fall shift 11:00pm–7:00am for snow removal coordination.
• Recruitment & Relocation Incentives: Not authorized; CSI: Not Approved

Skills

Dexterity and Safety

Interpret Instructions - Specs

Materials Handling

Technical Practices

Tools & Equipment Use

Tools

Gasoline/Diesel Equipment

Job description

U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs at the Syracuse VA Medical Center seeks a Gardener within the Facility Maintenance Service. This role supports the grounds, planting, and seasonal maintenance to ensure safe, welcoming grounds for veterans and staff.

The position requires operating a range of lawn and snow equipment, planning seasonal tasks, and readiness to respond to emergencies. Typical hours are 6:00am–3:30pm, with fall night shifts for snow operations.