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Groundskeeper, Landscape Construction

The Pennsylvania State University
paid time off, sick time
United States, Pennsylvania, University Park
201 Old Main (Show on map)
May 14, 2026
APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:
  • CURRENT PENN STATE EMPLOYEE (faculty, staff, technical service, or student), please login to Workday to complete the internal application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.
  • CURRENT PENN STATE STUDENT (not employed previously at the university) and seeking employment with Penn State, please login to Workday to complete the student application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.
  • If you are NOT a current employee or student, please click "Apply" and complete the application process for external applicants.

JOB DESCRIPTION AND POSITION REQUIREMENTS

Penn State is searching for a full time Groundskeeper, Landscape Construction - Grade 6 to join the team. Duties include:
  • Install landscape construction projects and landscape plantings according to specifications, plans, and designs as directed by Lead or Supervisor
  • Construct, install, erect, remove, repair, and or replace decorative or functional hardscape structures such as rockwork, ponds, patios, walkways, steps, fences, planters, edging, erosion control, swales and similar drainage projects
  • Prepare the landscape for construction projects; clear obstructions including bike racks, benches, posts, signs, fences, trees, plants, etc.; grind stumps; remove, grade, tamp, roll, and compact soil; install mats, rock, gravel, and other materials; replant, repair, reinstall, and otherwise return to pre-construction condition as directed
  • Establish sub-grades and finish grades for landscape construction projects, lawns, and planting beds
  • Mix concrete for patchwork and minor masonry repairs; form and pour small concrete pads for memorial plaques, bench pads, signposts, etc.; position and dismantle forms. Install, maintain, troubleshoot, and adjust basic irrigation equipment including sprinkler heads and waterlines; prepare equipment for seasonal changes
  • Mix compost and mulch materials using provided recipes; apply water as instructed
  • Operate various vehicles and equipment including but not limited to trucks, tractors, high-lift, backhoe, skid-steer loader, wheel loader, mixer, mini-excavator, tree spade, hydroseeder, mowers, spreaders, landscape trailers, and other landscape and light construction equipment
  • Load and unload equipment on truck or trailer; transport equipment to job site; attach and detach equipment accessories
  • Perform basic maintenance on vehicles and equipment such as adjust, clean, oil, grease, inspect water level, anti-freeze, and air pressure of tires; repair and adjust equipment as required
  • Set up safety equipment and barriers around work zone
  • Cut, trim, fertilize, spray, aerate, roll, seed, re-seed, and water lawns; control pests using various acceptable methods
  • Plant, transplant, prune, weed, feed, spray, and cultivate perennials and other flowers, trees, and shrubs according to specifications
  • Remove brush, leaves, grass clippings, paper, spoil, cinders, and rubbish from walks, roads, curbs, parking lots, lawns, and other University property; remove paint and other materials defacing the exterior of University property
  • Remove snow and ice from roads, parking lots, walks, shrubs, trees, etc.; apply deicing material
  • Maintain tools, equipment, and work area in a clean and orderly condition; report repair needs or unusual conditions to Supervisor or Lead
  • Coordinate with trades, equipment operators, and contractors in the field as required

Job Requirements: Requires the use of commercial English, grammar and arithmetic such as addition, subtraction, multiplication and division, including decimals and fractions; simple use of formulas, charts, tables, drawings, specifications, schedules, wiring diagrams, together with the use of adjustable measuring instruments, graduates and the like requiring interpretation in their various applications; or the posting, preparation, interpretation, use and checking of reports, forms, records and comparable data. Requires a Pennsylvania Commercial Driver`s License Class A with Endorsement N and a Pennsylvania Pesticide Applicator Certification with Categories 6 and 7. Over 1 year up to and including 2 years of effective experience.

Work Schedule:6:00 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.

Days Off:Saturday, Sunday

QUALIFICATIONS

MINIMUM WORK EXPERIENCE

1 to 2 years of effective experience

REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS

Pennsylvania Commercial Driver's License Class A with Endorsement N - Pennsylvania Department of Transportation, Pennsylvania Pesticide Applicator Certification with Categories 6 and 7 - Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture

BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES

Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies. This position requires that you operate a motor vehicle as a part of your job duties. A valid driver's license and successful completion of a motor vehicle records check will be required in addition to standard background checks. This position is subject to federal Department of Transportation testing for alcohol and controlled substances (49 CFR PART 40), and physical examination requirements as per PA. CODE 231.85. Penn State does not sponsor or take over sponsorship of a staff employment Visa. Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S.

COLLECTIVE BARGAINING AGREEMENT

This position is part of the bargaining unit represented by Teamsters Local Union No. 8. More information can be found here: Collective Bargaining Agreement.

SALARY AND BENEFITS

For details on starting pay rate and progression, please see the above collective bargaining agreement.

Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional well-being. In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans and substantial paid time off which includes holidays, vacation and sick time. One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children. For more detailed information, please visit our Benefits Page.

CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS

Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here.

EEO IS THE LAW

Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473.

Penn State is committed to and accountable for advancing equity, respect, and belonging. We embrace individual uniqueness, as well as a culture of belonging that supports equity initiatives, leverages the educational and institutional benefits of inclusion in society, and provides opportunities for engagement intended to help all members of the community thrive. We value belonging as a core strength and an essential element of the university's teaching, research, and service mission.

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