Grounds Worker S04

Cornell University•Ithaca, MI

3d•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. The role is based onsite in Ithaca, New York, and is covered by the United Auto Workers (UAW) Collective Bargaining Agreement. Two positions are available. Employees are required to attend staff development trainings 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. The position is subject to call-in at any time, 24 hours a day, seven days a week, to handle emergencies, especially snow emergencies. Shift changes and extended work hours—including nights, early mornings, evenings, weekends, and holidays—may be required to meet seasonal work demands. Work may involve extended exposure to weather extremes, sewage, dead animals, bees, and pollen. Employees are expected to support Cornell’s values of truth, respect, excellence, teamwork, and integrity, and to foster a welcoming, psychologically healthy, inclusive, and sustainable work environment. 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 landscaping methods, materials, tools, and equipment.
Excellent oral and written interpersonal skills for interacting with a diverse range of people.
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 and initiative to be proactive.
Demonstrated independent judgment and problem-solving ability to 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 landscape construction tasks.
Maintain turf and plants, control litter, remove snow, and perform other related duties.
Promptly report unsafe conditions or damage to campus landscapes, equipment, or facilities.
Respond to emergency call-ins, particularly snow emergencies.
Support inclusive and equitable working relationships with students, faculty, staff, and community members.
Attend staff development trainings and participate in the performance evaluation process.
Support the organization’s values and inclusive and sustainable practices in daily work.

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