Landscape Worker - Zone

James Madison University’s Facilities Management is accepting applications for a Landscape Specialist – Zone Environmentalist to perform a variety of technical and skilled tasks to maintain safe, functional, and attractive grounds and landscaping.

About JMU

At James Madison University (JMU), we’re more than just a publicly funded institution — we’re a vibrant, welcoming community located on a stunning campus where innovation, collaboration, and personal growth thrive. Our mission is to prepare students for a bright future, and we believe that starts with supporting the people who make it all possible: our employees.

Schedule

The regular schedule is Monday – Friday, 6:30 a.m. – 3:00 p.m., with an altered summer schedule and overtime as required to cover special events and inclement weather.

Responsibilities

• Perform a variety of landscaping tasks such as mowing; trimming and pruning of trees and shrubs; edging; adding gravel; weed eating; sodding; grading; mulching; planting, care, and removal of trees, flowers, and shrubs; post and sign installation; trash pickup; athletic field maintenance; equipment operation; and snow and ice removal.
• Apply and monitor herbicides, pesticides, and fertilizers.
• Lead the work of assigned wage and summer employees.
• Required to work all home football games.
• The employee in this position will be considered designated, meaning the work performed is essential to university operations and the employee will be required to work during periods of authorized closings.

Requirements

• Working knowledge of plants, shrubs, flowers, turf maintenance, and installation, and general landscaping practices and procedures.
• Ability to operate tractors, trucks, backpack blowers, tractors, edgers, mowers, chainsaws, snow-blowers, backhoes (to load mulch), turf sweepers, seeders, fertilizer spreaders, aerators, deep-tine equipment, and a variety of hand tools.
• Ability to lift up to 100 pounds and do physically demanding work for extended periods of time in a variety of environmental conditions with or without an accommodation.
• A Pesticide Registered Technician’s License is required within one year of hire into the position.
• Must meet eligibility requirements to drive JMU vehicles within 2 years of hire.
• 19 years of age.
• A valid Driver’s License and an acceptable motor vehicle report.

Qualifications

Knowledge of pesticide application is helpful.

Benefits

• Generous Leave: Enjoy paid vacation, sick leave, parental leave, community service leave, and 19 paid holidays annually.
• Comprehensive Health Coverage: Access high-quality health insurance options that fit your needs.
• Retirement Options: Plan for your future with retirement benefits through the Virginia Retirement System.
• Employee Well-Being: Our Balanced Dukes program promotes wellness and work-life integration through resources, events, and support.
• Tuition Waiver Program: Advance your education with our tuition waiver program for undergraduate and graduate courses taken at JMU.

Pay

$32,400 - $34,400

Employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a criminal background check. After accepting employment, new hires are required to complete an I-9 form and present documentation of their identity and eligibility to work in the United States.