Gardening Specialist; Gardener Groundskeeper

• No Minimum Education required.

This position performs multiple Grounds related functions in all categories of work and delegations assigned to Grounds & Landscape services. Performs all Landscape & Grounds services including planning cultivating and control of landscape, irrigation maintenance, repair and modification, equipment operations and upkeep within the campus core or country areas of the Davis Campus. The duties include, cultivating a varied selection of plant materials, specialized animal friendly landscapes or specialized gardens, herbicide applications, landscape design, tenant improvements, equipment operations and arboriculture support.

The position may also lead and train student interns and teams of volunteer gardeners to assist with landscape stewardship and maintenance. For a complete position description, please see (Use the "Apply for this Job" box below)..

03/20/2026 by 11:59PM

For full consideration, applicants are encouraged to upload license and/or certification if required of the position.

• Candidate is required to have Qualified Applicator Certificate (QAC) or be able to obtain one within 6 months of employment.
• Possession of a valid CA Driver's License and Agreement to participate in the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) Pull Notice System.
• Required to hold a valid California driver's license, have a driving record that is in accordance with local policies/procedures, and/or enroll in the California Employer Pull Notice Program
• No Minimum Education required.
• Experience in grounds maintenance, gardening, and care of ornamental, native, and sports turf landscapes. Including experience in identification, cultivation, and care of a broad diversity of ornamental, native landscape plants and turf grasses used in sports fields.
• Experience in diagnosing and resolving plant health issues, including diseases, pests, and abiotic disorders; as well as developing solutions to horticultural problems.
• Experience with irrigation system maintenance, repairs, and general landscape upkeep. Including operation and maintenance of spray equipment for weed and pest control, as well as irrigation maintenance and minor repairs.
• Knowledge of pruning standards, landscape construction techniques, and best practices for maintaining healthy plant growth; as well as knowledge of weed and pest identification, control methods, and applicable laws and regulations governing the safe use and application of chemicals and pesticides.
• Skill in operating and maintaining large mowers, tractors, and equipment used in grading, path construction, retaining walls, irrigation systems, and basic carpentry; as well as ability to safely operate and maintain landscape tools, power equipment, and spray systems for weed and pest control.

• ISA certification.
• Degree in Horticulture, Plant Science, or related field; or equivalent experience.
• Experience working in an institutional environment.
• Experience operating large mowers and tractors.
• Experience and or skill to maintain an organic garden.
• Experience performing and overseeing sports field maintenance, including field preparation, marking, and adherence to NCAA regulations.
• Skill in the management of volunteers and/or student interns.
• Knowledge of landscape construction techniques including grading, path construction, retaining walls, irrigation, and basic carpentry.
• Computer skills to utilize various programs and software for word processing, spreadsheets, website applications, and e‑mail programs.

• 70% - Landscape Maintenance
• 20% - Horticultural Training and Guidance
• 10% - Miscellaneous

The UC Davis Arboretum and Public Garden is visitor-centered organization. Through the UC Davis GATEways Project (Gardens, Arts and The Environment), the Arboretum and Public Garden envisions the entire campus landscape as a showcase of environmental sustainability and a resource for lifelong education and community engagement. Visitor safety and comfort are essential for a positive, educational visitor experience in the landscape.

The Grounds & Landscape Services sub-team of the Arboretum and Public Garden is responsible for the maintenance and upkeep of outdoor space including landscape, irrigation, roadways, walkways, bike paths and signage throughout campus. This position performs basic and specialized grounds maintenance tasks for designated campus areas.

• Salary or Pay Range: $28.68/hr.
  
  - $39.35/hr max budget for this role $28.68/hr.
• Salary Frequency:
  Bi-Weekly
• Salary Grade: STEPS
• UC
  
  Job Title:
  
  GARDENER GROUNDSKEEPER
• UC Job Code: 008153
• Number of Positions: 1
• Appointment Type:
  Staff:
  Career
• Percentage of Time: 100
• Shift (Work Schedule): M-F 6am-2:30pm or Tue-Sat 6am-2:30pm
• Location:
  
  Davis, CA
• Union Representation: SX-Service Workers
• Benefits Eligible:
  Yes
• This position is 100% on-site

Outstanding benefits and perks are among the many rewards of working for the University of California. UC Davis offers a…