Grounds Worker S04

Cornell University•Ithaca, NY

2d•Onsite

About The Position

Performs manual labor for general landscape maintenance and/or landscape construction, including turf and plant maintenance, litter control, snow removal, and related duties. Promptly reports unsafe conditions or damage to campus landscaping, equipment, or facilities. The position is based in Ithaca, New York, and is onsite. It is a union position covered by the United Auto Workers Collective Bargaining Agreement; two positions are available. Employees are required to attend staff development training and participate in the performance evaluation process. At the end of the probationary period, employees are required to pay union dues under Article 1 of the agreement. Employees are expected to support the organization's values of truth, respect, excellence, teamwork, and integrity, and to foster a culture of belonging and a psychologically healthy work environment. This includes communicating across differences, collaborating and welcoming others, showing respect and empathy, supporting people regardless of background or perspective, speaking up about exclusion or inappropriate treatment, and supporting work/life integration. Employees are also expected to cultivate inclusive and equitable working relationships with students, faculty, staff, and community members and to support inclusive and sustainable practices in their daily work. The role is subject to call-in 24 hours a day, seven days a week, particularly for snow emergencies. Shift changes and extended hours—including nights, early mornings, evenings, weekends, and holidays—may be required to meet seasonal demand. Work may involve extended exposure to extreme heat or cold, sewage, dead animals, bees, and pollen. The starting pay rate is $24.55 per hour. Visa sponsorship and relocation assistance are not available.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent.
Valid U.S. motor vehicle operator license.
At least two years of experience in landscape maintenance, landscape construction, or a related field.
Experience and ability to work in a fast-paced commercial and/or residential landscaping environment.
Working knowledge of methods, materials, tools, and equipment used in the landscaping trade.
Excellent oral and written interpersonal skills for interacting with a diverse range of people.
Proven ability to work effectively as a member of a team.
Strong customer service orientation and a helpful, friendly approach to serving the campus community.
Motivation, initiative, and a proactive approach to work.
Demonstrated ability to use independent judgment and problem-solving to help ensure a safe and efficient work environment.
Ability to cultivate and develop inclusive working relationships with students, faculty, staff, and community members.

Nice To Haves

Formal training in ornamental horticulture, agronomy, arboriculture, phytopathology, ornamental plant pests, and/or equipment operation.

Responsibilities

Perform manual labor for general landscape maintenance and/or landscape construction.
Maintain turf and plants, control litter, remove snow, and perform other related landscape duties.
Promptly report unsafe conditions or damage to campus landscaping, equipment, or facilities.
Respond to emergency call-ins, especially snow emergencies.
Support the organization's values and inclusive, equitable, and sustainable workplace practices.
Attend staff development trainings and participate in the performance evaluation process.

Benefits

Comprehensive health care options.
Generous retirement contributions.
Access to wellness programs.
Employee discounts with local and national retail brands.
Health and personal leave.
Three weeks of vacation.
13 holidays, including an end-of-year winter break from December 25 through January 1.
Two additional floating holidays.
Tuition-free Extramural Study and Employee Degree Program.
Tuition aid for external education.
Cornell Children's Tuition Assistance Program.