Landscape Tech I

Position Description:

The position will perform maintenance duties with responsibility for the appearance and general care of all aspects of the University grounds including but not limited to parking lots roads walkways exterior signage snow removal salt spreading plantings mowing and trash pick-up.

Major Responsibilities:

• Maintain campus grounds roads parking lots walkways signage plantings stormwater drainage manhole pumping etc.
• Mow trim and edge turf areas using a riding mower push mower weed whip and edger.
• Perform chemical treatments of lawns trees and shrubs.
• Mulch weed aerate trim and edge around beds pathways and walls.
• Prune trees and shrubs; propagation transplanting removal of trees and shrubs weeding etc.
• Prepare planting beds with hand and power tools; plant bulbs flowers ground covers trees and shrubs; apply mulch.
• Install hardscape and landscape furniture.
• Rake and remove leaves.
• Perform snow and ice removal with hand tools and power equipment and apply road salt and ice-melting agents to sidewalks stairs and parking lots.
• Hauling (snow spoils dirt sand gravel etc.).
• Remove trash daily weekly and as needed.
• Ensure grounds are clean and free of trash and debris.
• Complete work orders and communicate the status when resolved or an update is appropriate.
• Perform regular and preventative maintenance making repairs to lawn equipment and tools.
• Perform furniture moves as per work orders.
• Move furniture and various items to the University surplus.
• Complete the set-up and tear-down for campus events.

Required Knowledge and Skills:

• Working knowledge of computers for tasks including reading email logging hours and entering work order information. Strong working knowledge of Microsoft Office products.
• Ability to work independently but also an excellent collaborator and team player.
• Excellent communication skills.
• Detail-oriented.
• Ability to follow written and oral instructions.
• Ability to creatively overcome obstacles.
• Skilled in working with a diverse academic community and have the ability to work with individuals or groups from diverse backgrounds.
• Knowledge and ability to operate various types of equipment including power mowers saws weed eaters hedge trimmers sprayers zero-turn mowers bobcats backhoes forklifts etc.
• Ability and safety knowledge to operate work trucks grounds tractors weed eaters push mowers and other equipment used to maintain grounds.
• High School Diploma.
• Experience with landscape and/or grounds work is desirable.
• Valid Drivers License; Pass all University driving requirements.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to perform work with prolonged standing bending lifting pushing or pulling and working in cramped areas
• Average physical strength for lifting and or carrying objects weighing up to 50 pounds
• Work from a ladder and work with arms and hands overhead
• Ability to climb stairs and ladders

Hours:

• Monday-Friday from 7:00-3:30. Hours and days may vary depending on weather conditions event requirements and department needs.

Pay Rate:

• $17.75 / hour

All offers of employment with Valparaiso University are contingent upon the clear results of a thorough background check. Background checks may include criminal history motor vehicle reports prior employment verification and personal/professional references. If applicable to the position they will also include credit history. Background checks will be conducted on all final candidates for employment.

To be considered for this position you must upload:

• Cover letter
• Resume
• List of 3 professional references
• Answer all application questions

Please address the cover letter to:

Michele Pickering Director of Landscape and Grounds
Valparaiso University
Valparaiso Indiana