Grounds Services at the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse (UWL) invites applications for a Gardener. The Gardener is responsible for the maintenance of grounds and landscaping. This position performs a variety of tasks, including the planting and maintenance of trees, shrubs, annuals, perennials and bulbs, application of herbicides and pesticides, and tree and shrub pruning. The Gardener will also support the overall groundskeeping operation of the University including grounds maintenance tasks, such as snow removal, athletic field maintenance, and litter and trash removal. Overtime work will be required for snow removal and for special events, including but not limited to, the WIAA State Track Meet. The normal work schedule for this position will be Monday through Friday 7:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. This position reports to the Grounds Services Manager.

The successful applicant will demonstrate a commitment to multiculturalism, diversity and inclusive excellence and an ability to work with students and colleagues from diverse backgrounds.

This is a full-time position with expected continuous employment and includes a State of Wisconsin benefits package. The starting salary is $17.00 per hour.

Required Qualifications:

• The ability to hold and maintain a valid driver’s license meeting the criteria for driving a state vehicle.
• Individuals must have or be able to obtain a State of Wisconsin Commercial Pesticide Applicator License Category 3.0 Turf and Landscape within six months of hire and must maintain certification throughout employment.
• Ability to grasp, lift and/or carry tools, equipment, or supplies, up to 50 pounds on a regular basis.
• Physically be able to work in various positions, i.e. with arms above your head for periods of time; bending, twisting, crawling, squatting, climbing, stooping or kneeling; on scaffolding, ladders or stairs; standing, sitting or walking, while continuously performing job functions.
• Physically be able to work in various environments without adverse physical reactions, e.g., within extreme temperature ranges; in hot, noisy, dirty or dust-filled areas; at heights above 30 feet, etc.
• Ability to wear protective equipment, i.e. respirator, breathing apparatus, hearing, or eye protection, etc.
• Knowledge of safe, efficient operation of heavy equipment.
• Ability to work overtime hours for snow removal or for other special events as needed.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Associate degree or professional certification in a directly related field.
• Knowledge of preventative maintenance of heavy equipment.
• Ability to identify different varieties of annuals, perennials, trees, and shrubs.
• Ability to safely operate equipment in areas with high levels of pedestrian, bicycle and vehicle activity.
• Knowledge of essential job functions and ability to safely perform duties with minimal supervision.
• Knowledge or ability to learn relevant software and/or computer languages to operate preventive maintenance, work order, time reporting and inventory control programs.
• Ability to communicate effectively orally or in writing, using the English language, in various situations, i.e. face to face, via phone or two-way radio, correspondence, taking messages, email, etc.

Candidates interested in the Groundskeeper position at UWL will be required to apply online. All inquiries regarding the position should be directed to Tony Meidl, Grounds Services Manager, at ameidl@uwlax.edu.

The anticipated start date for this position is December 2024. Priority consideration will be given to those who apply by the first review date of December 2, 2024.

UW-La Crosse is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We strive to recruit, develop, and retain the most talented people from a diverse candidate pool, and we encourage applications from persons with varied backgrounds and perspectives. In support of the Wisconsin Veteran Employment Initiative, we encourage veterans and veterans with disabilities to explore employment opportunities at UW-La Crosse. 

Employment will require a criminal background check. It will also require you and your references to answer questions regarding sexual violence and sexual harassment. A pending criminal charge or conviction will not necessarily disqualify an applicant. In compliance with the Wisconsin Fair Employment Act, UW-La Crosse does not discriminate based on arrest or conviction record.