Groundskeeper; Limited Pool

Hiring Range

The University of California, Merced is required to provide a reasonable estimate of the compensation range for this role. This range takes into account the wide range of factors that are considered in making compensation decisions including but not limited to experience, skills, knowledge, abilities, education, licensure, certifications, and other business and organizational needs. It is not typical for an individual to be offered a salary at or near the top of the range for a position.

Salary offers are determined based on final candidate qualifications and experience. The salary or hourly range for this position is $21.48/hr.

- $28.36/hr the realized minimum pay for this position will be $25/hr.; steps less than $25/hr. will include an additional amount elevating to $25/hr.

Review of applications will occur as openings become available. Candidates will be selected for temporary employment in various departments as positions become available. This position is reopened every six months so please re‑apply if you remain interested in the position. This position will close on 12/31/2026.

These union positions are represented by the bargaining unit AFSCME:
Service - SX.

Under supervision, incumbent performs a variety of grounds maintenance and repair functions including litter pick‑up, cultivating, trimming of shrubs and small trees, fertilizing, planting and irrigation repairs. Performs prescribed maintenance procedures as directed such as mowing, edging, pruning, raking, sweeping and weeding. Responsible for monitoring and maintaining assigned landscape areas in a clean and healthy condition. Irrigates various plant material by use of appropriate manual or automatic systems or hoses when necessary.

Operates grounds power tools and machinery and must be responsible for proper use of equipment and follow proper safety procedures for his or her protection and that of others. Follow University guidelines and departmental policies and procedures. Be respectful and courteous with faculty, students, staff and public in general while performing assignments.

• High school or a General Education Diploma.
• Minimum 3 years of demonstrated experience working in landscaping.
• Ability to identify undesirable plant material and knowledge to operate commonly used grounds equipment and tools such as trenchers, tractors, rototillers and other types of power‑driven equipment.
• Knowledge and ability to maintain and troubleshoot irrigation systems.
• Ability to follow through and carry out assignments; be flexible and constantly adjust to changing priorities.
• Must be physically able to consistently perform job duties as outlined in this job description.
• Position is subject to the California DMV's Pull Notice System and an offer of employment is contingent upon a satisfactory driving record.
• Employment contingent upon pre‑placement physical, including drug and alcohol testing and background investigation.
• Knowledge of correct chemical use and fertilizer mixtures.
• This position will be required to work weekends.

Background check will be required.

The University of California is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, or other protected categories covered by the UC Anti-Discrimination Policy.

As a condition of employment, you will be required to comply with the University of California SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) Vaccination Program Policy. All covered individuals must provide proof of full vaccination or, if applicable, submit a request for exception or deferral.

The University of California, Merced is a smoke and tobacco free workplace.

All employers who receive federal contracts and grants are required to comply with E‑Verify, an internet‑based system operated by the Department of Homeland Security in partnership with the Social Security Administration. Certain positions funded by federal contracts/subcontracts require UC Merced to notify job applicants that an E‑Verify check will be conducted and the successful candidate must pass the E‑Verify check.

For information on the comprehensive benefits package offered by the University of California visit (Use the "Apply for this Job" box below)..