Landscape Specialist (Sports Turf Technician)

James Madison University•Harrisonburg, VA

1d•Onsite

About The Position

James Madison University’s Facilities Management is seeking a Landscape Specialist (Sports Turf Technician) to help ensure the safety, playability, and aesthetics of sports turf facilities. Previous sports turf experience is helpful but not necessary; the position offers the opportunity to join a growing team and learn valuable skills. The typical schedule is Monday through Friday, 6:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., with overtime as required for special events and inclement weather, and an alternate schedule during summer months. The employee must work all home football games and is designated as essential to university operations, requiring work during authorized closings. The position is eligible for a $2,000 sign-on bonus: $1,000 after six months in the position and the remaining $1,000 after 12 months.

Requirements

Ability to learn to use turfgrass-maintenance equipment, including complex reel and rotary mowers, hand tools, weed eaters, edgers, and tractors with attachments.
Ability to work independently, adapt to changing work environments and schedules, and perform physical labor for extended periods.
Effective communication skills and strong attention to detail.
Must be at least 19 years old.
Must have a valid driver’s license and have held a valid driver’s license for a total of 24 months at the time of hire, with an acceptable Motor Vehicle Report.
Must have a Virginia Pesticide Registered Technician’s License or be able to obtain it within one year of hire.

Nice To Haves

Virginia Certified Fertilizer Applicator License or willingness to obtain one.
Working knowledge of landscape maintenance, turfgrass management practices, and associated equipment.
Previous sports turf experience.

Responsibilities

Perform general landscape maintenance.
Maintain athletic fields, including synthetic and natural turfgrass.
Conduct daily field inspections.
Operate landscape equipment and inspect irrigation equipment.
Lead the work of assigned wage and summer staff.
Safely apply pesticides and fertilizers.
Work all home football games.
Work during periods of authorized closings as an employee designated essential to university operations.

Benefits

Paid vacation leave.
Paid sick leave.
Paid parental leave.
Paid community service leave.
19 paid holidays annually.
Health insurance options.
Retirement benefits through the Virginia Retirement System.
Wellness resources, events, and support through the Balanced Dukes program.
Tuition waiver for undergraduate and graduate courses taken at JMU.
$2,000 sign-on bonus, paid in two installments: $1,000 after six months and $1,000 after 12 months.