Laborer (Limited Pool)

University of California, Merced; Merced (CA); On-site; USD 28,998 - 35,321; Full time

Job summary

University of California, Merced is seeking a temporary staff member to support Moving & Events operations across day, night, and weekend events on campus. Responsibilities include setup, monitoring, and recovery services at multiple locations on and off campus, with limited furniture moves and light installation or removal of decor.

The role requires safety awareness, ability to lift and move objects, strong communication, and reliable teamwork.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED.
• Prefer at least one year of moving & events support and unskilled maintenance experience.
• Ability to interact and communicate effectively with peers, staff, supervisors, and UC colleagues in a courteous and professional manner.
• Knowledge of correct lifting and moving techniques.
• Strong customer service orientation.
• May be required to work weekends and multiple shifts.
• Must have a valid Class C California Driver’s License.
• Position may be subject to the California DMV Pull Notice System; employment offers may be contingent upon a satisfactory driving record.

Responsibilities

• Set up, monitor, and recover support at moving & events operations.
• Operate public address systems, chairs, seating, tables, stages, scaffolding, and related equipment.
• Follow safety standards and use PA, electrical systems, power and hand tools.
• Assist with emergency cleanup projects and maintain equipment inventory.
• Operate university vehicles and facilities equipment such as forklifts, scissors, and boom lifts.
• Collaborate with event coordinators and team members to achieve high-quality results.

Skills

Communication

Customer service

Lifting techniques

Safety awareness

Interpersonal skills

Flexibility

Education

High school diploma or GED

Job description

Job Details

Salary range: $21.05/hr - $25.64/hr. The realized minimum pay for this position will be $25/hr; steps below $25/hr include an adjustment to reach $25/hr.

Job Closing Date: Review of applications will occur as openings become available. This is a temporary position in various departments as workloads increase. The position is reopened every six months, so please re-apply if you remain interested. This position closes on 12/31/2026.

Union representation: These positions are represented by the bargaining unit AFSCME: Service - SX.

Remote/Hybrid eligibility: Dependent on openings.

About UC Merced

The University of California, Merced, is the newest campus in the UC system and the first American research university built in the 21st century. UC Merced offers a diverse environment with undergraduate and graduate programs, strong research opportunities, and community involvement. The campus emphasizes diversity, inclusion, collaboration, and professional development.

UC Merced is ranked among the best public universities in the nation and aims to provide educational opportunities for highly qualified students from the region and beyond. The campus focuses on sustainability, regional economic development, and partnerships with local communities.

About The Job

This is a temporary position to support the General Services Department during periodic increases in workload. Primary duties include supporting Moving & Events operations across day, night, and weekend events. Responsibilities include set up, monitoring, and recovery support at multiple locations on and off campus; limited furniture moves; and simple installation or removal of wall decorations or furniture.

Duties include setting up and operating public address systems, chairs and seating, tables, stages, scaffolding, and other equipment in support of events year-round. The role requires following safety standards and using moving and lifting equipment, PA and electrical systems, and power and hand tools. Adhere to ergonomic guidelines to reduce injuries and work collaboratively to improve efficiency while observing campus energy conservation policies.

Additional responsibilities include assisting with emergency cleanup projects, maintaining equipment inventory, and supporting other General Services tasks such as campus groundskeeping. Operate assigned University vehicles and Facilities equipment such as forklifts, scissors, and boom lifts. Maintain neatness and security of the work space and collaborate with event coordinators and team members to achieve high-quality results. Follow UC and departmental policies and demonstrate good judgment in all tasks and operations.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED.
• Prefer at least one year of demonstrated experience in moving & events support and unskilled maintenance projects.
• Ability to interact and communicate effectively with peers, staff, supervisors, and UC colleagues in a courteous and professional manner.
• Knowledge of correct lifting and moving techniques.
• Strong customer service orientation.
• May be required to work weekends and multiple shifts.
• Must have a valid Class C California Driver’s License.
• Position may be subject to the California DMV Pull Notice System; employment offers may be contingent upon a satisfactory driving record.

Background Check

A background check will be required.

Policy and Compliance

Equal Employment Opportunity: The University of California is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will be considered without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, or other protected categories.

Vaccination Policy: As a condition of employment, comply with the UC SARS-CoV-2 Vaccination Program. Provide proof of vaccination or an approved exemption/deferral as applicable and within established deadlines.

Smoke and Tobacco Free Policy: UC Merced is a smoke- and tobacco-free workplace. More information is available at the university’s health and safety policy site.

E-Verify: Some positions may require E-Verify as part of employment eligibility verification.

How To Apply

An online application is required for each position. UC Merced provides accessibility accommodations to applicants with disabilities. For assistance, contact [e-mail].

Pay, Benefits & Work Schedule

For information on the comprehensive benefits package offered by the University of California, visit the UC compensation and benefits page.