Horticultural Attendant – Foreman

About the role

Supervise, direct and work with others to maintain LSU grounds, operating hand and power equipment while performing plant care, chemical applications, and litter removal. The role requires physical stamina, ability to work in adverse weather, and lifting up to 50 lb.

Key responsibilities

• Operate and oversee power riding mowers, trimmers, edgers, blowers, and hedgers to keep lawns, sidewalks, plazas, and building perimeters clean and safe.
• Support arboriculture services with limb chipping, debris hauling, light chainsaw work, pruning, and chemical spraying.
• Perform storm‑debris cleanup, drain cleaning, sod laying, weed removal, mulching, digging, grading, painting, pressure washing, and planting.
• Apply chemicals for weed, pest, and soil management; fertilize, amend soils, and service irrigation systems.
• Inspect and maintain mobile equipment, change mower blades and tires, and keep maintenance records.
• Assist with special events by controlling litter and performing related cleanup tasks.

Required profile

• Three years of experience or training in groundskeeping, tree and shrub care, or a related field, or 18 semester hours in plant science/landscape studies.
• Valid driver’s license and ability to pass drug/alcohol testing and background checks.
• Physical ability to lift 50 lb, climb ladders, stoop, squat, kneel, and work overhead.
• Eligibility for emergency essential status and safety‑sensitive position requirements.

Required skills

• Operation of hand and power equipment (riders, trimmers, edgers, blowers, hedgers).
• Chemical application for weed, pest, and fertilizer management.
• Plant identification, pruning, and basic arboriculture tasks.
• Equipment inspection, blade and tire replacement, and preventative maintenance.
• Storm‑debris removal, sod installation, mulching, and irrigation work.

What we offer

• Comprehensive health, dental, vision, and life insurance.
• Retirement plans, flexible spending accounts, and paid holidays.
• Tuition exemption for qualified positions and professional development opportunities.
• Employee discounts and wellness benefits.