About Company
The University of Mississippi, affectionately known as Ole Miss, is the flagship public university in Mississippi. Established in 1848, it is renowned for its academic excellence, vibrant campus life, and commitment to research and service. With a picturesque campus spanning over 2,500 acres, Ole Miss takes immense pride in maintaining its beautiful grounds, which feature historic buildings, lush green spaces, diverse botanical gardens, and athletic facilities. We are dedicated to providing a world-class environment for our students, faculty, staff, and visitors. Our Facilities Management team plays a crucial role in upholding these high standards, ensuring the campus remains a welcoming, safe, and inspiring place for learning and community engagement. Joining the Ole Miss team means becoming part of a legacy of excellence and contributing to the daily beauty and functionality of one of the nation’s most iconic university settings. We foster a collaborative and supportive work environment, valuing each team member’s contribution to our shared success.
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Job Description
The University of Mississippi is seeking a dedicated and skilled Landscaper/Groundskeeper to join our Facilities Management team. This essential role involves maintaining the aesthetic appeal and overall health of the University’s extensive grounds, ensuring a beautiful and safe environment for our entire campus community. As a Landscaper/Groundskeeper, you will be instrumental in executing a wide range of horticultural and general maintenance tasks, working both independently and as part of a team. Your work will directly contribute to the visual representation of the University, upholding its reputation for stunning natural beauty and well-maintained facilities. This position requires a strong work ethic, attention to detail, and a genuine passion for outdoor environments. You will operate various landscaping equipment, perform routine upkeep, and assist with larger projects, playing a vital role in preserving the historic charm and modern functionality of our campus. We are looking for someone who is reliable, takes initiative, and is committed to delivering high-quality results in all aspects of groundskeeping. If you enjoy working outdoors, have a keen eye for landscaping details, and want to be part of a prestigious institution, we encourage you to apply.
Key Responsibilities
- Perform routine lawn care, including mowing, trimming, edging, and blowing.
- Plant, cultivate, prune, fertilize, and water trees, shrubs, flowers, and groundcover.
- Operate and maintain a variety of landscaping equipment, such as mowers, trimmers, blowers, chainsaws, and small tractors.
- Remove weeds, debris, and fallen leaves from all campus grounds and hardscapes.
- Prepare and maintain flower beds, ensuring healthy plant growth and visual appeal.
- Assist with irrigation system checks, minor repairs, and adjustments.
- Conduct pest and disease control applications as directed, following safety protocols.
- Participate in seasonal clean-up efforts, including fall leaf removal and spring planting.
- Monitor grounds for potential hazards or maintenance issues and report them promptly.
- Ensure all tools and equipment are properly cleaned, stored, and maintained.
- Adhere to all safety guidelines and procedures established by the University and Facilities Management.
- Support special events setup and breakdown related to grounds preparation.
Required Skills
- Minimum of 1 year of experience in landscaping, groundskeeping, or a related field.
- Proficiency in operating and maintaining standard landscaping equipment.
- Knowledge of basic horticulture, including plant identification and care practices.
- Ability to perform strenuous physical labor in various weather conditions.
- Strong attention to detail and a commitment to maintaining high standards of grounds appearance.
- Effective communication and teamwork skills.
- Valid Mississippi Driver’s License with a clean driving record.
- Ability to lift and carry heavy objects (up to 50 pounds) frequently.
Preferred Qualifications
- High School Diploma or GED.
- 2+ years of professional groundskeeping experience, preferably in a large institutional setting.
- Experience with irrigation system maintenance and repair.
- Familiarity with Integrated Pest Management (IPM) techniques.
- Basic mechanical knowledge for minor equipment troubleshooting.
- Horticultural certifications or relevant vocational training.
Perks & Benefits
- Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance plans.
- Generous paid time off, including holidays, vacation, and sick leave.
- Participation in the Public Employees' Retirement System of Mississippi (PERS).
- Tuition benefits for employees and eligible dependents.
- Access to campus facilities, including libraries and recreational centers.
- Employee wellness programs and resources.
- Professional development and training opportunities.
- A supportive and collaborative work environment within a historic and beautiful campus.
How to Apply
To apply for this exciting opportunity and become a part of the University of Mississippi’s dedicated team, please click on the application link below. We look forward to reviewing your qualifications and learning more about your interest in this vital role.
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