Groundskeeper-Ornamental Specialist

Groundskeeper-Ornamental Specialist

Department:
Minnesota Department of Administration – Grounds Unit A, St. Paul, MN.

Shift: Night Shift (Monday – Friday). Work Area:
Capitol complex grounds. Salary: $20.51 - $26.86 per hour ($42,824 - $56,083 annually).

Positions to fill: 2 Groundskeeper positions.

Posting dates: 01/10/2026 – 01/28/2026.

• Landscape & Garden Care – plant, prune, mulch, water, and maintain annuals, perennials, shrubs, and ornamental beds.
• Tree & Shrub Maintenance – assist with pruning, planting, removals, and long‑term tree care.
• Snow & Ice Removal – operate plows, loaders, and sidewalk equipment to clear roads, ramps, sidewalks, and entrances.
• General Grounds Work – maintain flags, refuse stations, sidewalks, parking areas, signage, and hardscapes.
• Turf Care – mow, trim, edge, aerate, dethatch, and repair turf areas.
• Irrigation Support – help with system start‑ups, repairs, adjustments, and seasonal blow‑outs.

• Knowledge of plant‑care techniques (ground keeping, nursery work, natural‑resource management) and related postsecondary coursework.
• Valid driver’s license with acceptable driving record.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Willingness to learn on the job and adapt to changing schedules and work environments.
• Capacity to work in inclement weather conditions year‑round.

• Experience in tree and shrub care, planting, trimming, pruning, and felling.
• Experience in turf care (mowing and trimming).
• Experience in public settings such as parks and recreation facilities.
• Customer service skills.
• Minnesota non‑commercial pesticide applicator license.
• Commercial Class “B” driver’s license.

Must pass a pre‑employment physical. The job involves exerting up to 36‑50 pounds of force occasionally, 22‑30 pounds frequently, and 11‑15 pounds constantly to move or lift objects.

Must pass a criminal background check through the American Databank and employment reference checks, and possess a valid driver’s license with acceptable driving record. A criminal history does not automatically disqualify an applicant; each case is reviewed individually.

Select “Apply for Job” at the top of this page. For questions, contact the Careers Help Desk at  or email careers.us. For additional information about the application process, visit http://(Use the "Apply for this Job" box below)..

Teresa Mills – teresa.mills.us – .

To apply as a Connect 700 Program applicant, submit the Job #, Working Title, and valid proof of eligibility certificate by the closing date to Teresa Mills.

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• Paid vacation and sick leave
• 12 paid holidays per year
• Low‑cost medical, dental, vision, and prescription drug plans (including fertility care, diabetes care, orthodontic care)
• 6‑week paid leave for parents
• Pension plan after three years of service
• Employer‑paid life insurance
• Short‑term and long‑term disability insurance
• Tax‑free expense accounts for health, dental, and dependent care

• Training, classes, and professional development
• Federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (check eligibility on student aid.gov)
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for confidential work/life support
• Daily Living/Convenience Services (chore services, home repair, trip planning, child/elder care)

Minnesota state agencies are equal opportunity, affirmative action, and veteran‑friendly employers. We encourage applicants of color, Indigenous communities, LGBTQIA2S+ individuals, people with disabilities, women, and veterans to apply. All qualified applicants will be considered without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex, gender identity, marital status, familial status, age, sexual orientation, disability status, veteran status, or any other legally protected characteristic.

We provide reasonable accommodations to applicants with disabilities. Contact the Careers Help Desk at  or email careers.us for assistance with searching or applying.