Grounds Technician 00281

About the role

As a Grounds Technician for the Grounds Department, your primary responsibility will be to work independently repairing, adjusting, and installing irrigation systems to ensure correct operation on the campus landscape and grounds. You will also participate in and lead special projects as directed to facilitate department needs in all areas of landscape and grounds maintenance. As needed, you will perform applications related to fertilizers and pesticides to trees, shrubs, and ornamental beds throughout the university.

Responsibilities

• Repair, adjust, and install irrigation systems to maintain correct operation on campus landscape and grounds
• Lead and participate in special projects as directed to meet department needs in landscape and grounds maintenance
• Apply fertilizers and pesticides to trees, shrubs, and ornamental beds as needed

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Extensive knowledge in grounds and landscape maintenance
• Extensive knowledge of turf and horticulture requirements related to irrigation, mowing, pruning, watering, planting, fertilizing, and diseases
• Extensive knowledge of grounds maintenance tools and equipment
• Extensive knowledge of the application of various environmentally safe herbicides and pesticides for controlling weeds, disease, and insects
• Ability to read and understand pesticide and fertilizer labels

Education

• High school diploma or equivalent
• Possess and maintain a valid driver’s license
• VDACS Registered Technician or ability to become VDACS Registered Technician within 6 months of hire

Experience

• Experience in irrigation repair/maintenance and installation
• Experience in grounds maintenance services, including aerifying, mowing, trimming, seeding, watering, fertilizing, planting, mulching, pruning, and pest/disease control of turfgrass & horticultural areas and plant material
• Experience with safe use of herbicides, fungicides, and insecticides in landscape maintenance
• Experience in proficient operation of small and large grounds maintenance equipment
• Experience at a landscape company in grounds/landscape maintenance

Additional Considerations

• Education: A VDACS Certified Applicator in the 3A or 3B category
• Education: Certified Fertilizer Applicator
• Education: A college degree in a related field
• Experience: Experience as a Senior or Lead Groundskeeper/Foreman
• Experience: Experience as a Technician at a university or resort

Salary

Starting at $34,277 to $42,268, commensurate with education and experience.

Benefits

This position includes Commonwealth of Virginia and Christopher Newport University employee benefits. CNU offers a comprehensive benefits package including retirement plans, medical, dental, vision, and a variety of other options. Available leave includes vacation, sick time, personal time, and volunteer/service leave. State employees are eligible for discounted travel, banking, legal, and retail services.