Who we are

Why Rensselaer?  Nestled on a beautiful 275-acre campus in upstate NY, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute is home to five schools, 32 research centers, three makerspaces, an observatory, one of the world’s fastest supercomputers, and the IBM Quantum System One - the first university-based quantum computer in the world. 

With top notch employee health and retirement benefits, Rensselaer offers its full-time employees a generous paid time off program, tuition remission, and opportunities for career growth.

Job Summary

The Gardener performs the duties of a Sr. Groundskeeper, including snow removal and equipment operations associated with the maintenance of the campus grounds, and supports all campus wide events. In addition, the Gardener assists with the design, installation and maintenance of campus landscapes and provides horticultural guidance. The incumbent also independently operates loaders and forklift, performs preventative maintenance of irrigation system and applies granular and/or liquid fertilizer to maintain healthy plant growth.

Minimum Qualifications

• Associate's degree in Horticulture or related field

• Three (3) years field experience in commercial grounds/landscape maintenance including experience with operating landscape maintenance equipment and snow removal equipment

*** relevant combination of education, training and directly related experience will be considered ***

• Valid US driver’s license is required

• Valid New York State Pesticide Technician’s or Applicator’s License in category 3a. or the ability to obtain within one year of appointment

Minimum Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Ability to independently operate all landscape, turf maintenance and snow removal equipment
• Understanding of irrigation systems, trouble shooting and ability to make minor repairs
• Ability to properly mix and apply appropriate pesticides, calibrate spreaders and sprayers
• Ability to identify plant material with the understanding of cultural requirements and growth habits. Basic knowledge of planting techniques
• Ability to read, write and perform arithmetic functions
• Basic computer skills including Microsoft and job specific software
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Excellent customer service skills
• Ability to communicate effectively
• Must have the ability to work flexible hours which may include, evenings, nights, weekends and holidays

Shift

Business Hours with weekends or evenings occasionally required

Travel

Driving

Driving a personal vehicle for non-passenger use

Starting Salary/Rate

Expected hiring range: $24.00- $26.50

Pay transparency disclosure: The selected candidate’s salary will be determined based on factors that include the available budget, internal equity, and the final candidate’s qualifications, experience, education and other job-related credentials. This hiring range is provided as Rensselaer’s good faith estimate of the expected hiring range at the time of posting.

Application instructions

Follow the on-screen prompts to create a brief online profile. Please be ready to upload your resume and cover letter.

If you need assistance with the online application process, please contact careers@rpi.edu.

Applications will be accepted until the position is filled.

Total Compensation and Benefits Information

Rensselaer’s Total Compensation Program is designed to provide stable pay growth, a comprehensive and affordable benefits package, and a comprehensive and affordable retiree medical and prescription plan. Rensselaer is recognized locally and nationally for the depth and breadth of its compensation and benefits program. Our goal is to provide you and your family with a comprehensive health and welfare program as an umbrella of financial security and protection during your employment. For more information, please visit Benefits | Human Resources (rpi.edu).

We welcome candidates who will bring diverse cultural, ethnic, national and international perspectives to Rensselaer’s work and campus communities.

Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity, Race/Gender/Veterans/Disability Employer.