Manager Arboretum​/Grounds

GROUNDS - Manager Arboretum/Grounds Job Classification

Salaried Administrative

This position oversees the Office of the Arboretum through management, maintenance, and enhancement of the university’s arboretum and surrounding landscaped areas. Responsibilities include managing daily operations, supervising staff, managing budgets, maintaining aesthetic quality of plant collections and grounds, and handling snow and ice removal for sidewalks and building entrances.

Requires a bachelor’s degree or equivalent in botany, horticulture, plant science, landscape architecture, or related field. Must have established expertise in horticulture, arboriculture, irrigation systems, snow and ice removal, and sustainable landscape practices. Preferred experience in personnel and budget management. Must be a Seventh‑day Adventist in good and regular standing.

• Oversee daily operations of the arboretum, including scheduling, workflow coordination, and quality control.
• Maintain lawns, gardens, natural areas, and curated plant collections to high horticultural standards.
• Develop and implement seasonal maintenance plans, including mowing, pruning, mulching, and snow removal.
• Lead and coordinate snow and ice removal operations, including plowing, salting, de‑icing, and ensuring safe access to sidewalks and building entrances.
• Monitor weather conditions and deploy staff and resources for timely snow and ice response.
• Ensure compliance with university policies, environmental regulations, and safety standards.
• Serve on committees such as Graduation Committee, Arboretum Council, and facility committees.
• Be available through a rotating schedule after hours for campus Grounds‑type emergencies.

• Supervise, train, and evaluate all employees, including full‑time staff, part‑time employees, and student workers.
• Develop work schedules, assign tasks, and monitor productivity and performance.
• Promote a safe, inclusive, and collaborative work environment.
• Coordinate training programs related to equipment use, safety procedures, horticultural practices, and snow/ice operations.

• Design, operate, maintain, and repair irrigation systems across the arboretum.
• Monitor water usage and implement water conservation strategies as needed.
• Troubleshoot system issues and oversee upgrades or expansions.

• Plan and oversee tree planting, pruning, removal, and risk assessment.
• Maintain tree inventory and health records.
• Implement best practices in arboriculture to ensure long‑term vitality and safety.

• Plan and execute annual and seasonal planting displays.
• Select appropriate plant materials based on climate, soil conditions, and design goals.

• Diagnose plant health issues and implement treatment plans.
• Apply pesticides, herbicides, and fertilizers in accordance with regulations and IPM principles.
• Maintain accurate records of chemical applications and ensure proper licensing.

• Plan, coordinate, and oversee landscape improvement and capital projects.
• Manage timelines, budgets, contractors, and materials.
• Collaborate with campus departments, designers, and external vendors.

• Oversee maintenance, repair, and inventory of Grounds equipment and vehicles, including snow removal equipment.
• Ensure proper usage, storage, and safety compliance.
• Evaluate and recommend equipment purchases or replacements.

• Develop and manage annual operating and project budgets.
• Monitor expenditures and ensure cost‑effective use of resources.
• Procure plants, materials, equipment, and services in accordance with university policies.
• Prepare financial reports and forecasts.

Lead personnel decisions (selection, hiring, promotion, discipline, termination, etc.). Lead office decisions on scope of work, equipment, supplies, and provide employee development and mentorship.

The requirements below represent knowledge, skill, and ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be…