Gardener Groundskeeper (Gardening Specialist)

DEPARTMENT DESCRIPTION

The UC Davis Arboretum and Public Garden is visitor-centered organization. Through the UC Davis GATEways Project (Gardens, Arts and The Environment), the Arboretum and Public Garden envisions the entire campus landscape as a showcase of environmental sustainability and a resource for lifelong education and community engagement. Visitor safety and comfort are essential for a positive, educational visitor experience in the landscape. The Grounds & Landscape Services sub-team of the Arboretum and Public Garden is responsible for the maintenance and upkeep of outdoor space including landscape, irrigation, roadways, walkways, bike paths and signage throughout campus. This position performs basic and specialized grounds maintenance tasks for designated campus areas.

JOB SUMMARY

This position performs multiple Grounds related functions in all categories of work and delegations assigned to Grounds & Landscape services. Performs all Landscape & Grounds services including planning cultivating and control of landscape, irrigation maintenance, repair and modification, equipment operations and upkeep within the campus core or country areas of the Davis Campus. The duties include, cultivating a varied selection of plant materials, specialized animal friendly landscapes or specialized gardens, herbicide applications, landscape design, tenant improvements, equipment operations and arboriculture support. The position will also supervise and train student interns and teams of volunteer gardeners to assist with landscape stewardship and maintenance. For a complete position description, please see http://arboretum.ucdavis.edu.

POSITION INFORMATION

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

• Walk, lift, stoop, bend, crawl, push and work in tight confined areas.
• Work outdoors year-round in summer heat, winter rain and other extreme weather conditions.
• Carry pack sprayer weighing up to 50lbs. on back.
• Climb ladders, climb on top on machinery and equipment.
• Agility and strength to traverse steep banks carrying materials weighing up to 50lbs.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

• Possession of a valid Pesticide Applicators Certificate or ability to obtain one within 6 months of employment. Participate in the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) pull notice system.
• Possession of a valid CA driver’s license.
• Work in areas of noise odors, vibration, dirt and dust.
• May be required to work a non-standard work schedule that may include nights, weekends, or alternative schedules such as 80 hours in 8 or 9 shifts instead of 10.
• Vacation usage by employee may be restricted during peak workload periods as required to meet the needs of the campus.
• Work hours are Tuesday – Saturday 6:00am to 2:30pm or Monday – Friday 6:00am to 2:30pm. Work scheduled will be determined by needs of department.
• The Smoke and Tobacco Free Environment policy is intended to provide a healthier, safer, and more productive work and learning environment for the entire UC community. The University of California prohibits smoking and tobacco use at all University owned or leased properties, or facilities operated by UC staff or faculty. Smoking and tobacco use are strictly prohibited in indoor and outdoor spaces, parking lots, residential space, and University vehicles. https://ucdavispolicy.ellucid.com/documents/view/271
• Subject to completion of a pre-placement medical exam provided by Employee Health Services, at no charge to the applicant. May, at times, require the individual to work with or be in areas where hazardous materials and/or infectious diseases are present. Specific hazards include but are not limited to: cleaning materials, pesticides, fuels, solvents, infectious materials and wastes, biological hazards, and other materials labeled hazardous.
• Subject to medical Surveillance procedures and review in accordance with Federal and State Laws and Regulations and University Policy.

QUALIFICATIONS

Required:

Required Licenses and Certifications

• Candidate is required to have Qualified Applicator Certificate (QAC) or be able to obtain one within 6 months of employment.

Minimum Education/Experience

• Experience in irrigation maintenance and minor repairs.
• Experience in Grounds maintenance or gardening. Experience in identification, cultivation, and care of a broad diversity of ornamental and native landscape plants.
• Experience working with volunteers and/or university students.
• Experience in operation and maintenance of spray equipment for weed and pest control.
• Experience in recognizing, diagnosing and researching plant health problems, including abiotic disorders, diseases, and pests, and developing solutions to horticultural problems.
• Experience and skill to safely operate a variety of landscape tools and power equipment

Minimum Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSA)

• Knowledge of pruning standards and best practices.
• Knowledge of weed identification and control methods used. Knowledge of pest control laws and regulations regarding safe chemical application and pesticides used.

Preferred:

Additional Preferred License/Certification

• ISA certification.

Preferred Education/Experience

• Experience operating large mowers and tractors.
• Experience and or skill to maintain an organic garden.
• Degree in Horticulture, Plant Science, or related field. Experience working in an institutional environment.

• Computer skills to utilize various programs and software for word processing, spreadsheets, website applications, and e-mail programs.
• Knowledge of landscape construction techniques including grading, path construction, retaining walls, irrigation, and basic carpentry.
• Skill in the management of volunteers and/or student interns.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS

Background Check

This position is a critical position and subject to a background check. Employment is contingent upon successful completion of background investigation including criminal history and identity checks.

The University of California has implemented a SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) Vaccination Program SARS-CoV-2 Vaccination Policy (ucop.edu) covering all employees. To be compliant with the policy, employees must submit proof of vaccination or a University-approved exception or deferral.

Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging

At UC Davis, we’re solving life’s most urgent challenges to bring a fuller, healthier, and more resilient world within reach. We grow from every challenge we take on and we don’t just maintain - we improve.

We recognize that creating an inclusive and intellectually vibrant organization means understanding and valuing both our individual differences and our common ground. The most comprehensive solutions come from the most diverse minds and you belong here.

As you consider joining UC Davis, please explore our Principles of Community, our Clinical Strategic Plan and strategic vision for research and education, and our latest efforts to outgrow the expected.

The University of California is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer advancing inclusive excellence. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, or other protected categories covered by the UC nondiscrimination policy.