Summary

Manages all operational and administrative aspects of the landscaping and grounds maintenance activities for the UNM Albuquerque Campuses and off-site grounds facilities. Serves as the primary contact for grounds-related issues. Manages and oversees an integrated pest management program for the campus. Supervises staff and contractors and administers and approves work budgets and expenditures.

Duties and Responsibilities

1. Oversees the supervision of personnel, which includes work allocation, training, promotion, enforcement of internal procedures and controls, and problem resolution; evaluates performance and makes recommendations for personnel actions; motivates employees to achieve peak productivity and performance.
2. Manages employee licensing and training.
3. Manages all aspects of grounds operations, including turf and irrigation, tree care, and flower bed operations, including the care and maintenance of water features. Develops and maintains a landscape management plan that adheres to established service levels and complies with regulations.
4. Oversees and coordinates equipment operations; supervises small engine operations, makes recommendations for selection, replacements, coordinates repair and maintenance, and maintains inventory and records.
5. Coordinates all trash handling, removal, and landscape debris (green) recycling operations.
6. Manages streets, sidewalks, and hardscapes for cleanliness, safety, repairs, and replacement. Manages inclement weather operations such as snow and ice, wind damage, and flood damage and remediation regarding landscape and other affected areas. Monitors weather conditions for operational adjustments.
7. Directs and oversees an integrated pest management program for the University's landscapes and buildings; supervises and coordinates all activities associated with pest management operations and administration, and ensures compliance with all relevant federal, state, and local laws and guidelines.
8. Oversees the safe and proper storage and disposal of pesticides, fertilizers, and other associated chemical sand maintains inventories of chemicals and application records.
9. Develops or assists with the development and implementation of policies and procedures consistent with those of the organization to ensure efficient and safe operation of the unit.
10. Participates in campus construction planning and project management to ensure effective grounds and landscaping operations, including assessing site needs, overseeing contractor activities, and conducting inspections for compliance with contracts and landscape standards. Manages project budgets, scopes, timelines, and vendor relationships to enhance safety and aesthetic appeal while minimizing damage to existing infrastructure.
11. Participates in the development of annual operating budgets and provides fiscal direction to the unit.
12. Performs miscellaneous job-related duties as assigned.

Minimum Job Requirements

• Successful completion of at least 60 college-level credit hours; at least 7 years of experience directly related to the duties and responsibilities specified. Certification/Licensure State of New Mexico Pesticide License in Ornamental and Turf Pest Control: New Mexico Department of Agriculture pesticide applicators license with categories 3A and 3B (ornamental pest and weed control).
• Completed degree(s) from an accredited institution that are above the minimum education requirement may be substituted for experience on a year for year basis.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Required

• Skill in the use of personal computers and related software applications.
• Knowledge of grounds maintenance and turf equipment operations.
• Records maintenance skills.
• Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work effectively with a wide range of constituencies in a diverse community.
• Ability to read and understand architectural and landscape plans.
• Ability to create and modify landscape plans for implementation.
• Skill in organizing resources and establishing priorities in a large campus environment with multiple priorities.
• Skill in examining and re-engineering operations and procedures, formulating policy, and developing and implementing new strategies and procedures.
• Knowledge of project management principles, practices, techniques, and tools.
• Knowledge of local water usage and conservation regulations and standards.
• Knowledge of water conservation principles, methods, techniques, and local water restrictions and standards.
• Ability to supervise, and train, employees, to include organizing, prioritizing, and scheduling work assignments.
• Ability to foster a cooperative work environment.
• Knowledge and understanding of landscaping principles, and methods.
• Employee development, and performance management, skills and the ability to foster a cooperative work environment.
• Knowledge of greenhouse operations, plant propagation, and insect/disease control methods and techniques.
• Knowledge of pest management principles, techniques, agents, and equipment, and federal, state, and local regulations, guidelines, and standards pertaining to pest management and chemical application.
• Knowledge of all aspects of plant health care.
• Knowledge of budget preparation, cost estimating, monitoring, and fiscal management principles and procedures.
• Knowledge of waste removal and recycling procedures, regulations, and standards.
• Knowledge in irrigation repair, water flow, pipe pressure loss, and modification principles.

Conditions of Employment

• Possession of a valid New Mexico driver's license is a requirement for this job.
• Must pass a pre-employment criminal background check.
• Successful candidate must submit to post-offer, pre-employment physical examination and medical history check.

Working Conditions and Physical Effort

• Moderate physical activity. Requires handling of average-weight objects up to 25 pounds or standing and/or walking for more than four (4) hours per day.
• Work environment involves some exposure to hazards or physical risks, which require following basic safety precautions.
• Work may involve moderate exposure to unusual elements, such as extreme temperatures, dirt, dust, fumes, smoke, unpleasant odors, and/or loud noises.

The University of New Mexico provides all training required by OSHA to ensure employee safety.

Revised Date: 11/02/2024