Grounds Gardener

Position Summary:
Eastern Illinois University is seeking candidates for a full-time Grounds Gardener. This position will be responsible for care and maintenance of all plant materials in the campus grounds with primary emphasis on annual and perennial flower beds. Creating a safe and conducive environment that enhances and contributes to the learning experience. This position works hand in hand with other positions in the department to reach these goals.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Prepare beds; plant, water, cultivate, annual and perennial beds; clean off beds.
• Supervises and trains assistants as required,
• Tree and shrub pruning / trimming.
• Leaf removal.
• Plant seeds, transplant, water, and fertilize annuals in greenhouse.
• Pick up litter.
• Remove ice and snow from sidewalks, steps, and ramps.
• Other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications:

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Two (2) years (24 months) of work experience in the maintenance of gardens, lawns, shrubs, or trees.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Knowledge of the care of gardens, lawns, shrubs, and trees.
• Ability to supervise.
• Ability to follow simple instructions.
• Ability and willingness to work as directed.

Work Hours

The core work hours of this position are Monday through Friday 7:00 a.m.- 3:00 p.m.

Starting Salary/Pay Rate Range

Current starting pay rate for this position is $26.47

This position is a union position; therefore, provisions of the Teamsters collective bargaining agreement/labor contract apply to the filling of this position, including pay rate.

Application Deadline: September 26, 2026

In accordance with Eastern Illinois University policy (IGP #14.1), EIU is generally unable to sponsor or assume sponsorship of an employment visa (e.g., H-1B, OPT, or other) for this Civil Service position.

Required Applicant Documents:
The Civil Service Examination for this classification is a credentials assessment. No participation other than submission of applicant materials is required from qualified applicants.

• Application
• Resume
• References
• Transcripts (where required as a MAQ)

Benefits Overview:

Eastern Illinois University is proud to offer an excellent benefits package designed to support our employees' well-being and career goals.

This position is eligible for the following benefits:

• Comprehensive Medical Coverage: Competitive employee insurance premiums with flexible plan options.
• Vision Insurance: Vision coverage is included with medical at no cost.
• Dental Insurance: Dental plans available to meet your needs.
• Retirement Benefits: Participation in the State University Retirement System, which includes medical insurance benefits upon retirement.
• Tuition Waivers: Opportunities to pursue educational goals through tuition waivers for employees and dependent children.
• Generous Paid Time Off: Up to 12 paid holidays annually, plus earned vacation and sick time.

For more information on our employee benefit programs for this specific position class, please visit https://www.eiu.edu/humanres/benefits/newemployees.php

Eastern Illinois University is committed to fostering a learning community where all members feel welcomed and valued. The university provides equality of opportunity in all areas of campus life, and we strive to recognize and appreciate the unique value of our students, faculty, and staff. Every member of campus has the right to learn and work in an environment free of discrimination and harassment, and beyond that, our goal is for all members of our community to develop a strong sense of belonging to Eastern Illinois University.

The University and Community:
Celebrating more than 130 years of excellence, Eastern Illinois University (EIU) is a fully accredited, comprehensive regional residential institution located in Charleston, Illinois—ideally positioned between Chicago, St. Louis, and Indianapolis. The University is known for its individualized attention, supportive relationships, and exceptional outcomes, including high graduation, retention, and career placement rates. Academically, EIU combines personalized learning with nationally respected programs. Small class sizes allow for close mentorship from distinguished faculty, while innovative undergraduate and graduate programs and firsthand opportunities prepare students for meaningful professional and personal growth. Campus life at EIU is vibrant and community oriented. The University features more than 50 buildings within walking distance, extensive recreational facilities, and more than 200 student organizations including NCAA Division I athletics, and 20 fraternities and sororities. Cultural life thrives at the world-renowned Doudna Fine Arts Center and the Tarble, which bring exceptional artistic and performance experiences to campus and the region. Students, faculty, and staff enjoy the close-knit atmosphere of a classic college town with convenient access to shops, dining, and outdoor recreation—alongside robust service opportunities coordinated through EIU’s Office of Civic Engagement and Volunteerism. With its strong alumni network, sustainability efforts, and deep commitment to student success, Eastern Illinois University offers an exceptional environment to live, learn, and work.

Important Information for Applicants:

Eastern Illinois University is an Affirmative Action/ Equal Opportunity Employer committed to diversity, inclusion, and belonging in the workplace. We prohibit discrimination and harassment of any kind based on race, color, sex, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, national origin, disability, status as a protected veteran, or any other applicable legally protected characteristics.

Applicants with disabilities are encouraged to apply and may request a reasonable accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act to complete the application and/or interview process. If would like to request assistance with the application/interview process, please contact Human Resources at (217)-581-3463 or employment@eiu.edu for assistance.