Position Summary

Why work at Villanova?

• Join a mission-driven organization. Since Villanova University's founding in 1842, we have been inspired by the values of truth, unity, and love, and are a community dedicated to service to others.
• Villanova has been included among the nation's best colleges and universities. VU's inclusion again in U.S. News & World Report's 2025 "Best Colleges" rankings is another indication of the University's continued prominence and forward momentum.
• Villanova's most precious asset is our people. As an employee, you will receive a holistic benefits package, generous paid time off, a competitive retirement savings plan, flexible work options, wellness programs including gym membership, professional development, tuition assistance, and more.

The Grounds Gardener 3rd Class works under close supervision, to perform tasks with minimal mechanical equipment requirements and be responsible for landscape maintenance operations, to include all elements of lawn, shrubs and trees, walks and driveways, and other elements of landscape. Under close supervision, also may assist skilled trades and general maintenance personnel with general labor duties.

Villanova is a Catholic university sponsored by the Augustinian Order. The University is an equal opportunity employer and seeks candidates who understand, respect and can contribute to the University's mission and values.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Performs labor of manual nature, such as moving of equipment and furniture, cleaning of storm drains and curbs, the raking and removal of leaves, removal of snow, and the application of ice control materials.
• Operates basic power tools such as push lawn mowers, power lawn trimmers, edgers, and leaf/trash blowers.
• Operates light and medium equipment assigned to Grounds Division.
• Help identify and correct problems of plants, grasses, trees, and shrubs.
• Applies fertilizers and weed control materials by hand or push spreader.
• Transports materials and specialty tools to work sites.
• Cleans tools and returns same to proper location; cleans work site.
• Removes snow, including the operation of salt spreaders.
• Notifies supervisor of all defects, problem areas, and safety hazards related to grounds/landscape.
• Assists with various tasks as directed by the tradesperson/maintenance person assigned to the project.
• Assists in furniture and event setups and breakdowns, decorations for special functions, meetings, etc.
• Performs other duties assigned within the normal scope of the department's responsibilities and the individual's capabilities.

Minimum Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent and ability to exhibit acceptable life experiences in grounds gardening and horticultural work.
• Valid Driver's License required with a good driving record and no traffic violations. Must be able to meet and maintain VU driving privileges as outlined by Villanova's Risk Management's Motor Vehicle Record Policy for Drivers of University Vehicles.
• Must have the ability to follow both verbal and written directions in English; the ability to interact with students, faculty, administration, and staff in a professional and positive manner, as well as the ability to read and understand OSHA guidelines such as Material Safety Data Sheets, equipment safety data plates, fuel/chemical flash points, etc.
• Must have the physical ability to climb ladders, to bend, reach, crawl, and lift up to 60 lbs; the ability to work in enclosed spaces.

Preferred Qualifications

• Landscape maintenance experience.

Physical Requirements and/or Unusual Work Hours

Work under adverse weather conditions, including extreme hot and cold. Work will include response to weather conditions at any hour of day or night when notified.

Special Message to Applicants

work schedule M-F 7a-330p