Gardener I - Facilities Management Services (FMS)

About this role

Carnegie Mellon University’s Facilities Management group is searching for a Gardener to join the team! This is an exciting opportunity if you thrive in an interesting work environment. Reporting to the Grounds Supervisor, you will contribute to the department in a variety of interesting ways, such as preparing and applying designated fertilizers, herbicides, and pesticides for treatment of plant, shrub, tree, and lawn conditions.

Core responsibilities will include: • Performing the following grounds maintenance functions: Soil preparation, Pruning, Trimming, Cultivation, Weeding, Leaf and trash cleanup and removal

• Preparing campus athletic fields and other designated grounds for event use.

• Mows grass using a variety of equipment including tractor mounted or rotary mowers and towed gang mowers.

• Operating trucks and other automotive equipment with attachments for plowing snow, sweeping, landscaping, and other various grounds and pavement maintenance tasks; and pavement maintenance tasks.

• Under the direction of the Grounds Supervisor, prepares and applies designated fertilizers, herbicides, and pesticides for treatment of plant, shrub, tree, and lawn conditions. 

• Requisition job parts and supplies.

• Work diligently on assigned work and record time and other expenses associated with jobs accurately.

• Complete all work safely and timely.

• Performs other duties as assigned.

Adaptability, excellence, and passion are vital qualities within Carnegie Mellon University. We are in search of a team member who can effectively interact with a varied population of internal and external partners at a high level of integrity. We are looking for someone who shares our values and who will support the mission of the university through their work.

You must demonstrate: • Familiarity with plant materials.

• Ability to operate various types of landscape equipment - tractor LBH, forklifts, etc.

• Technical knowledge of accepted horticulture maintenance techniques

• Tree climbing skills in accordance with I.S.A. standards (preferred) .

• Ability to work various shifts, work overtime and availability for call out work.

• Full range of body motion.

• Ability to move and work in confined spaces, up and down ladders and to work from ladders.

• Ability to lift 40 pounds from ground to overhead.

• Operate on and off-road vehicles in support of assigned work.

• Travel to jobs over a 100+ acre campus with many hills and stairs.

• Must be capable of effectively working outside during inclement conditions, adverse conditions and for extended periods of time. 

Qualifications:

 Gardener I: • High School diploma or GED required

• Training as a Gardener through on the job field experience required

• Some level of formal coursework for horticulture required

• Minimum of three (3) years’ experience in the trade required, with experience in a large institutional (college, university, hospital, etc.) setting preferred.

• Must be a member of or agree to join Local #95 International Union of Operating Engineers within 90 days of onboarding.

Gardener II: In addition to the above associated requirements for Gardener I, to join at the Gardener II level requires the following additional certifications and experience: • Minimum of four (4) years’ experience in the trade required, with experience in a large institutional (college, university, hospital, etc.) setting preferred.

• Pesticide certification for the state of PA in categories 6,7 and 10 required

• A combination of education and relevant experience from which comparable knowledge is demonstrated may be considered. 

Requirements: • Successful Background Check

• Motor Vehicle Records (conducted annually) 

• Pre-employment drug and alcohol screen

• Fitness for duty assessment and pre-employment medical exam

• Child Protective Clearance - Act 153

• Valid PA driver's license

Additional Information: • This is a full-time (40 hours/week), non-exempt position based in Pittsburgh, PA.

• Sponsorship : Applicants for this position must be currently legally authorized to work for CMU in the United States. CMU will not sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment visa for this opportunity

• Must be a member of or agree to join Local #95 International Union of Operating Engineers within 90 days of onboarding.

Joining the CMU team opens the door to an array of exceptional benefits.

Benefits eligible employees enjoy a wide array of benefits including comprehensive medical, prescription, dental, and vision insurance as well as a generous retirement savings program with employer contributions. Unlock your potential with tuition benefits , take well-deserved breaks with ample paid time off and observed holidays , and rest easy with life and accidental death and disability insurance. 

Additional perks include a free Pittsburgh Regional Transit bus pass, access to our Family Concierge Team to help navigate childcare needs, fitness center access , and much more!

For a comprehensive overview of the benefits available, explore our Benefits page .

At Carnegie Mellon, we value the whole package when extending offers of employment. Beyond credentials, we evaluate the role and responsibilities, your valuable work experience, and the knowledge gained through education and training. We appreciate your unique skills and the perspective you bring. Your journey with us is about more than just a job; it’s about finding the perfect fit for your professional growth and personal aspirations.

Are you interested in an exciting opportunity with an exceptional organization?! Apply today!

Location Pittsburgh, PA Job Function Non-Craft Trades (L95) Position Type Staff – Regular Full Time/Part time Full time Pay Basis Hourly More Information:  • Please visit “ Why Carnegie Mellon ” to learn more about becoming part of an institution inspiring innovations that change the world. 

• Click here to view a listing of employee benefits

• Carnegie Mellon University

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