Gardener - Groundsperson

Ngā kōrero mō te tūranga – About the role

We are looking for someone with green fingers to assist in the care, maintenance and development of our 65 hectares of attractive, park-like campus grounds. You will have the opportunity to work in all areas of the grounds which include a variety of garden collections, trees and shrubs. You will also be responsible for the care of the hardscape, i.e. walkways and roads, along with ensuring our grounds remain litter free.

The aim is to provide an environment appropriate for the University’s activities, and passive and active recreation for students and staff. New developments and regular maintenance are carried out by a combination of Grounds staff and contractors.

Salary will be determined based on your skills, knowledge, and experience, with an additional allowance available depending on your qualifications. This is a full-time (40 hours per week), fixed-term role, providing maternity leave cover, based at our Hillcrest Campus, ideally starting in May and running through January 2026.

For more information on the role please see the position description. For a confidential conversation about the role, please contact Mark Thompson, Landscape Manager, [email protected]. All applications must be submitted through the online portal, emailed applications will not be accepted.

Ko wai koe? – Who are you?

You will be physically fit, well organised and enjoy working autonomously as well in a team. You will also have:

• proven and demonstrative experience in amenity horticulture
• the ability to operate and maintain grounds equipment
• experience in the maintenance of garden beds
• a full NZ driver’s license

A horticultural industry qualification is preferred; however, this is not essential if you have the relevant experience.

Ko wai mātou? – Who are we?

The Property Services team is responsible for managing the University’s corporate estates portfolio comprising of campus development, commercial lease management, facilities and grounds maintenance, and support services such as security, parking, fleet and cleaning.

The Gardener/Groundsperson is part of a small team, including a Grounds Supervisor who reports to the Landscape Manager. The Grounds team is responsible for the maintenance and development of all grounds associated with our Hamilton campus.

He aha ngā take me tono mai ai koe? – Why should you apply for this position?

We want you to be part of our success! Our University stands proudly on the world stage as a provider of future-focused, international education and an active player in global research. Our rankings reflect these strengths. Working with us means you’ll enjoy a satisfying work environment with many benefits.

The University of Waikato is distinctive for the diversity of its staff and students and encourages applicants with the relevant capabilities from all backgrounds to apply. Applicants must have the legal right to live and work in NZ in accordance with the NZ Immigration regulations which can be found here.

Ko te Tangata – For the People

The University of Waikato prides itself on the quality of its engagement with the communities that it serves, the provision of a world-class education and the national and international impact of its research. Our policies are guided by the principles of the Treaty of Waitangi and equal opportunity for all.

E herea ana te Whare Wānanga ki te kaupapa kia whakaratohia te mea angitū ōrite ki ngā tāngata katoa.

Applications Close on Wednesday, 14th May 2025

Requisition Number 1002464