Grounds & Nursery II - Horticulturist (OPEN TO CURRENT CSM EMPLOYEES ONLY)
Golden
Friday, 22 May 2026
Bring your passion for plants, landscapes, and craftsmanship to one of the nation’s top STEM universities. The Colorado School of Mines is seeking a skilled Horticulturist/ Greenhouse Operator to join our Grounds Division within Facilities Management. This is a hands-on, outdoor-focused role where your work directly shapes the beauty, sustainability, and welcoming environment of our award-winning Golden, Colorado campus. Why Join Mines? Impactful work: Your efforts enhance the daily experience of thousands of students, staff, and visitors on our highly visible and celebrated campus. Variety in work: From greenhouse propagation and seasonal floral displays to turf care and snow management, no two seasons are the same. Team culture: Collaborate with dedicated professionals who value pride in craftsmanship, professionalism, and customer service. Career growth: Access to on-the-job training, workshops, certifications, and opportunities to advance into supervisory or specialized roles (irrigation, arboriculture, sustainability). Stability & benefits: Enjoy the security of a state position with excellent benefits and long-term career opportunities. What You’ll Do. Greenhouse & Horticulture (60%)Plan, germinate, cultivate, and transplant annual flowers for campus displays. Manage greenhouse operations: climate control, insect/disease prevention, and plant propagation. Transition plants from greenhouse to outdoor beds, ensuring color and hardiness in Colorado’s variable climate. Maintain flowering displays through proper irrigation, fertilization, pruning, and IPM practices. Grounds & Turf (30%)Perform skilled landscape maintenance: planting, pruning, mowing, edging, and cleanup of lawns, trees, shrubs, and athletic fields. Monitor turf/plant health, diagnose issues, and recommend treatments. Assist in mentoring student workers and supporting fellow Grounds staff. Snow Management (10%)Serve as essential staff during snow/ice events, contributing to Mines’ Snow Management Plan by clearing streets, lots, sidewalks, and steps to keep campus safe and accessible. Who We’re Looking For. Hands-on horticulture/landscape experience (municipal, golf course, university, or commercial landscaping preferred). Knowledge of greenhouse operations, plant propagation, and plant health care. Certifications (pesticide applicator, irrigation, arborist) are a plus but not required at hire. A team player who values professionalism, safety, and customer service. Comfortable working year-round outdoors in Colorado’s climate.