Groundsworker

Position Details

Position Information

Recruitment/Posting Title Groundsworker Job Category AFSCME Local 888 Department Facilities Grounds Newark Overview

The Division of Institutional Planning & Operations (IP&O) employs a workforce of approximately 2,700 staff, represented by 15 collective negotiations agreements, and is responsible for institutional strategic initiatives and operations, which encompasses an expansive range of comprehensive service and business operations across the State of New Jersey. These include planning and construction, facilities, public safety and emergency operations, environmental health and safety, transportation, housing, and auxiliary/retail operations.

Posting Summary

Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, is seeking a Grounds worker for the Division of Institutional Planning & Operations (IP&O). Under direct supervision, performs diversified maintenance, landscaping and grounds duties in the preparation of campus facilities multi-purpose area and the maintenance of grounds and equipment.

Among the key duties of this position are the following:

• Performs general maintenance.
• Performs topsoil installations, rough and fine grading and the establishment of lawns froe of grounds to include, but not limited to, grass cutting, trimming, edging, trash removal, recycling, leaf removal, weeding, fertilizing, liming, pruning, mulching, deadheading, and watering.

Plants flowers, shrubs and trees as required.

• m seed and sod on campus grounds.
• Operates walk-behind power equipment to include, but not limited to, tractors, lawn mowers and trimmers.
• As assigned, performs snow removal duties using snow shovels, show blowers, and snow vehicles/plows.
• Installs and maintains such items as street signs, poles, parking bumpers, trash containers, landscape ties, snow fences and other grounds related items.
• Erects and breaks down bleachers, chairs and platforms, lecture hall equipment and attendant equipment used for special events.
• May pick up and deliver furniture and other equipment.
• Operates university vehicles and equipment.
• Performs related duties as required

FLSA Nonexempt Grade 10 Salary Details Minimum Salary 35503.860 Mid Range Salary 41537.780 Maximum Salary 47724.900 Offer Information

The final salary offer may be determined by several factors, including, but not limited to, the candidate's qualifications, experience, and expertise, and availability of department or grant funds to support the position. We also take into consideration market benchmarks, if and when appropriate, and internal equity to ensure fair compensation relative to the university's broader compensation structure. We are committed to offering competitive and flexible compensation packages to attract and retain top talent.

Benefits

Rutgers provides a comprehensive benefits package to eligible employees. The specific benefits vary based on the position and may include:

• Medical, prescription drug, and dental coverage
• Paid vacation, holidays, and various leave programs
• Competitive retirement benefits, including defined contribution plans and voluntary tax-deferred savings options
• Employee and dependent educational benefits (when applicable)
• Life insurance coverage
• Employee discount programs

Position Status Full Time Working Hours Standard Hours 40.00 Daily Work Shift Work Arrangement Union Description AFSCME - Local 888 Payroll Designation PeopleSoft Seniority Unit Facilities Maintenance - Newark Terms of Appointment Staff - 12 month Position Pension Eligibility PERS

Qualifications

Minimum Education and Experience

• Must be able to read and speak English commensurate with job duties; and lift and carry up to 50 pounds.

Certifications/Licenses

• Valid driver's license, two years driving experience and successful completion of the Rutgers Defensive Driving Course

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• May be required to obtain Commercial Driver's License (CDL).
• One year experience in landscaping industry with knowledge of tools, methods, materials using in grounds maintenance desired.

Preferred Qualifications Equipment Utilized Physical Demands and Work Environment Special Conditions

• Shift hours/Schedule: Mon- Fri 6:00AM - 2:30PM
• Safe Driving Record

Posting Details

Posting Number 26ST1453 Posting Open Date 07/02/2026 Special Instructions to Applicants

Notice to AFSCME Local 888 union members ONLY: To submit an internal bid, an application must be submitted no later than 9:00 a.m. on 07/13/2026. Although AFSCME Local 888 members have priority consideration, outside applications are accepted as well.

Regional Campus Rutgers University-Newark Home Location Campus Rutgers University-Newark City Newark State NJ Location Details

Pre-employment Screenings

All offers of employment are contingent upon successful completion of all pre-employment screenings.

Immunization Requirements

Under Policy 100.3.1 Immunization Policy for Covered Individuals, if employment will commence during Flu Season, Rutgers University may require certain prospective employees to provide proof that they are vaccinated against Seasonal Influenza for the current Flu Season, unless the University has granted the individual a medical or religious exemption. Additional infection control and safety policies may apply. Prospective employees should speak with their hiring manager to determine which policies apply to the role or position for which they are applying. Failure to provide proof of vaccination for any required vaccines or obtain a medical or religious exemption from the University will result in rescission of a candidate's offer of employment or disciplinary action up to and including termination.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

It is university policy to provide equal employment opportunity to all its employees and applicants for employment regardless of their race, creed, color, national origin, age, ancestry, nationality, marital or domestic partnership or civil union status, sex, pregnancy, gender identity or expression, disability status, liability for military service, protected veteran status, affectional or sexual orientation, atypical cellular or blood trait, genetic information (including the refusal to submit to genetic testing), or any other category protected by law. As an institution, we encourage all qualified applicants to apply. For additional information please see the Non-Discrimination Statement at the following web address: http://uhr.rutgers.edu/non-discrimination-statement

Supplemental Questions

Required fields are indicated with an asterisk (*).

• • Are you currently a member of AFSCME - Local 888?

• Yes

• No

• • Do you have a valid driver's license with two years driving experience?

• Yes

• No

Applicant Documents

Required Documents

Optional Documents

• Resume/CV
• Cover Letter/Letter of Application
• Writing Sample 1