gardening specialist

Apply now Job no: 543278
Work type: Staff
Location: Sacramento
Categories: Unit 5 - CSUEU - Operations and Support Services, Custodial/Facilities, Probationary, Full Time, On-site (work in-person at business location)

Priority Application Date (Posting will remain open until filled): Sunday, October 27, 2024, at 11:55pm PST

Hiring Preference

Eligible on-campus applicants in California State University Employees Union (CSUEU) Bargaining Units 2,5,7, and 9 will be given first consideration in the recruitment.

Position Summary

Under general supervision of the Manager of Grounds and Landscape Services, the Gardening Specialist performs a combination of specialized work in an assigned area which encompasses irrigation repair and maintenance work, pest and weed control, tree maintenance, athletic turf maintenance, and maintenance of gardening power equipment. The incumbent will also make recommendations for the planning and development of special planting areas including soil amendments, irrigation, and plant selection.

FLSA: Non-Exempt (Eligible for overtime compensation)

Anticipated Hiring Range: $3,907 per month - $4,000 per month

CSU Classification Salary Range: $3,907 per month - $6,375.00 per month

Work Hours: Tuesday - Saturday, 6:00am - 2:30pm. Position works on-site.

Department Information

Grounds and Landscaping Services is responsible for maintaining 170 landscaped acres and over 3,000 trees. We also have responsibility for maintaining walkways and parking improvements. Grounds and Landscape Services trims, irrigates, cleans, fertilizes, provides pest control, and renovates campus site improvements that encompass:

• Over 3,000 trees, comprising 250 species
• 93 acres of lawn/turf
• 16 acres of shrubs and ground cover
• More than 21 miles of campus walkways
• 60 acres of parking lots
• 25 acres of undeveloped space
• Irrigation systems comprising 5 well pumps, 7 zone controllers, 750 valves, and 12,000 sprinklers heads

Thorough knowledge of the methods, plants, tools and equipment used in planting, cultivating and caring for flowers, shrubs, lawns and trees. General knowledge of the composition and structure of soil, Ph factors of soils, compatibility and incompatibility factors between soil and plants, difference between plant mixes, and erosion control.

Abilities:

Ability to identify, diagnose and treat plant disease, and correct plant nutrient deficiencies; prepare freehand sketches and make recommendations for possible improvements in landscaping within the assigned area; read and write at a level appropriate to the duties of the position; and follow oral and written instructions.

Experience:

Two years of experience in the care and maintenance of landscaped areas or general grounds, one year of which shall have been in either the maintenance, repair or modification of irrigation systems, specialized pest and/or spray control work, or cultivation and care of nursery plants.

License:

Possession of the appropriate California Department of Pesticide Regulation license to perform pest control work. Some positions may require possession of a valid California driver's license.

Required Qualifications

Experience:

• Experience performing specialized pest and/or spray control work (e.g. weeds, fungi).

Knowledge:

• Knowledge of installation and programming automatic irrigation controllers.
• Thorough knowledge of athletic and general turf maintenance.

Skills/Abilities:

• Ability to perform standard and specialized pruning of trees, shrubs and other plants as needed.
• Ability to perform maintenance, repair or modification of irrigation systems.
• Ability to operate and perform maintenance on small power-operated power mowers, small riding mowers, and other gardening power equipment.
• Effective interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work independently as well as collaboratively in a diverse environment.
• Ability to use computerized maintenance systems.
• Commitment to maintaining a welcoming and inclusive work environment with diverse colleagues and constituents including faculty, students, staff, and members of the community.

License/Certificate:

• Must have or obtain Current Qualified Applicators Certificate (QAC) for pest and weed control related to landscape maintenance within twelve months of hiring date.
• Possession of a valid driver's license and good driving record.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to frequently lift and carry gardening equipment up to 50 lbs.

Conditions of Employment:

• Ability to pass a background check.

Preferred Qualifications

• Ability to provide lead work direction to students, Groundworkers or individuals in other grounds classifications.
• Ability to provide advice and assistance to others regarding proper care of flowers and ornamental plants, pruning, athletic field maintenance, and other technical skills.
• Experience establishing and maintaining preventative maintenance programs using computerized systems.

Required Licenses/Certifications

• Must have or obtain Current Qualified Applicators Certificate (QAC) for pest and weed control related to landscape maintenance within twelve months of hiring date.
• Possession of a valid driver's license and good driving record.

Documents Needed to Apply

• Resume
• Cover Letter
• Copy of Required License
• Copy of Required Certification (if applicable)

Failure to upload these documents to the online application may result in disqualification. Three professional references are required as part of the online application.

Sacramento State is located in the heart of California's capital city, five miles from State Capitol. The lush, 300-acre campus is situated along the American River, close to numerous bike trails and other recreational areas. Sacramento, also known as the "Farm-to-Fork Capital," is one of the most ethnically diverse and livable cities in the country, with a population of half of a million. Sacramento State is a Hispanic and AANAPISI serving institution with about 31,000 students coming not only from the Greater Sacramento Region, but also from across the state, country, and world. Our 1,800 faculty and 1,500 staff are committed to meeting our mission:

As evidenced by the values embedded in our Hornet Honor Code, Sacramento State is committed to creating an inclusive environment where all faculty, staff, students, and guests are welcome and valued. Our commitment is more than simply ensuring that our campus is free from bias and discrimination, but is one devoted to celebrating many diverse identities, life experiences, and perspectives that enrich our community, teaching and learning.

Equal Employment Opportunity
California State University, Sacramento is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer and has a strong institutional commitment to the principle of diversity in all areas. We consider qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, age, sex, gender identity/expression, sexual orientation, pregnancy, genetic information, medical condition, marital status, veteran status, or disability. Sacramento State hires only those individuals who are lawfully authorized to accept employment in the United States.

Note to Applicants:

Possession of the minimum qualifications does not guarantee an interview unless required by collective bargaining agreement.