Groundsworker

Grounds worker

Job #553697 | Facilities Management – Grounds | First Review Date: 01/21/2026

At Cal Poly Humboldt, bold hearts and open minds shape the future. Founded in 1913, the university is a comprehensive institution with rigorous programs and a commitment to equity and sustainability.

Salary Range: $3,461 - $4,752 monthly (Hiring Range: $3,461 – $3,601 Monthly).

This is a full‑time, benefited, non‑exempt, 12‑month permanent position with a one‑year probationary period in Facilities Management Grounds Department. Benefits include outstanding vacation, medical, dental, vision plans, life insurance, voluntary pre‑tax health and dependent care reimbursement accounts, a fee waiver education program, membership in PERS, and 14 paid holidays per year. Additional benefits information can be found at https://(Use the "Apply for this Job" box below)..

The Grounds worker performs general gardening work and maintenance of the campus grounds in an assigned area of the campus. This Grounds worker is trained to support Grounds Maintenance in every zone on campus, rotating between the Gardening Specialists on a weekly basis.

• Plant, cultivate, fertilize, water and spray ornamental plants, shrubs, hedges, trees, lawns, and flowers.
• Prepare and treat soils for planting.
• Trim trees, hedges and shrubs and erect tree supports.
• Assist a qualified specialist in sprinkler repair, spraying, tree trimming or nursery functions when necessary.
• Drive pick‑ups and other automotive equipment in performance of assigned duties.

• Rake/blow leaves/duff.
• Weed removal.
• Clean trash from assigned areas including parking lots.
• Maintain a safe and clean work environment.

• Street sweeping.
• Outdoor event support.
• Maintain hoses, sprinklers, tools, supplies and equipment in proper condition and repair (clean/service/maintain tools).
• Operate and perform maintenance on small power‑operated pavement sweepers, power mowers, small riding mowers and other gardening power equipment.

• Thorough knowledge of general gardening and grounds maintenance methods.
• General knowledge of proper methods of planting, cultivating, and caring for hedges, ornamental trees, shrubs, lawns, and flowers.
• Knowledge of the use and care of gardening materials, tools, and equipment.
• Ability to recognize common species of ornamental shrubs, trees and flowers grown in California.
• Ability to perform strenuous physical work as described in this classification.
• Mechanical aptitude and motor coordination, including use of two‑way radios or other devices for communication.
• Skillful operation of small trucks and power‑driven grounds equipment.
• Read and write at an appropriate level; prepare standard reports; use maintenance management and work reporting systems.
• Follow oral and written instructions; work independently with general supervision; manage changing priorities and deadlines; handle emergency situations.
• Effectively work in a diverse team.
• Observe safety requirements and use personal protective equipment.

• One year of experience in the care and maintenance of landscaped areas, grounds maintenance work, or related manual labor.
• Possession of a valid California driver’s license.

• At least 6 months experience in a similar position within a college, university, or institutional environment.

• Letter of Interest
• Resume or Curriculum Vitae
• Contact information for at least three professional references

The deadline to submit application materials is 11:55 p.m. on 02/03/2026.

Any inquiries about this recruitment can be directed to careers or Cal Poly Humboldt’s Human Resources Office at .

We acknowledge that Cal Poly Humboldt is located on the unceded lands of the Wiyot people, where they have resided from time immemorial. ... [EEO statement continues].

Working in the state of California is a condition of employment for this position. ... [employer policy text continues].

CAL POLY HUMBOLDT IS NOT A SPONSORING AGENCY FOR STAFF OR MANAGEMENT POSITIONS (e.g. H1-B VISAS).

Evidence of required degree(s), certification(s), or license(s) is required prior to the appointment date. ... [background check information].

All university programs and activities are open and available to all regardless of race, sex, color, ethnicity or national origin. ... [diversity statement].

Mandated Reporting:
This position may be considered a “mandated reporter” under the California Child Abuse and Neglect Reporting Act and is required to comply with the requirements set forth in CSU Executive Order 1083. ... [training and reporting information].

Class Code: 0731 | Publication Date: 01/06/2026

• Seniority level:
  Entry level
• Employment type:
  
  Full-time
• Job function:
  Other
• Industries:
  Higher Education