Grounds Machine Operator - Temporary Part-Time Weekends

Job summary

The Grounds Machinery Operator is responsible for the safe operation of various light machinery and vehicles to maintain university landscapes and sports fields. They will also assist with the installation and repair of site furniture, signage, and fencing while maintaining accurate equipment records.

Job details

Department: Maintenance and Energy Services Position covered by the Collective Agreement with the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE), Local 1334 Temporary part-time weekends. See options below for details: Option 1: Contract from November 2, 2026 to April 18, 2027Weekend – Day Shift, Saturday & Sunday, 6:00am - 6:30pm (24 hours/week)1 positions available Option 2:Contract from November 2, 2026 to May 28, 2027Weekend - Day Shift, Saturday & Sunday, 6:00am - 6:30pm (24 hours/week)2 positions available Option 3:Contract from November 2, 2026 to April 18, 2027Weekend – Night Shift, Friday & Saturday, 6:00pm - 6:30am (24 hours/week)2 positions available Option 4:Contract from November 2, 2026 to May 28, 2027Weekend – Night Shift, Friday & Saturday, 6:00pm - 2:30am (16 hours/week)1 position available Total Number of Positions: 6 If you are a current employee of the University of Guelph you must apply on the internal Career Page in order to be considered as an internal applicant. Career Opportunities (sapsf.com) Reporting to the Manager, Grounds department, the Grounds Machinery Operator will be responsible for the safe operation of a variety of light machinery and related equipment used in Grounds’ landscape and maintenance operations. WHAT WILL YOU DO? Safely operate a variety of equipment including but not limited to mowers, loaders, farm tractors, chain saws, woodchipper, hydraulic sprayers, and other related equipment Safely operate a variety of Grounds vehicles including but not limited to CVOR vehicles (dump trucks), snow removal equipment, and 4-wheel drive vehicles Assist with the installation of fence and signage Assist with installation and repair of garden and street furniture, bicycle racks and salt bins Cut grass and maintain numerous sports fields Follow all University policies and procedures Maintain accurate records, and complete circle checks of equipment Performs other job related duties as assigned including equal or lower classifications WHAT MUST YOU HAVE? Grade 12 education Valid DZ driver’s license Minimum of 1 year of experience in the operation of tractors, small loaders, mowers, and related equipment Knowledge of established safety practices and commitment to safe work practices Ability to read and interpret schedules, equipment directions, and instructions Excellent interpersonal and oral communication skills are required Ability to work effectively both individually and as a member of a team WHAT WILL GIVE YOU THE EDGE? Chainsaw certification Forklift certification Previous training on CVOR regulations The successful candidate will be required to provide a current and acceptable driver’s abstract as a condition of employment and will be required to successfully complete an independent third-party driving assessment. The incumbents must be available to respond to emergency call-ins, particularly during snow season, but occasionally at other times of year as well. Some shift work and overtime may be required. Employee Type: Temporary Position Number: 10924849 Classification: CUPE Band 4 0-3 Month Rate: $30.47 per hourJob Rate: $32.07 per hourVacancy: OriginalWork Location: Main At the University of Guelph, fostering a culture of inclusion is an institutional imperative. The University invites and encourages applications from all qualified individuals, including from groups that are traditionally underrepresented in employment, who may contribute to further diversification of our Institution. Posting Date: 09/30/2026 Close Date: 10/07/2026

What you’ll do

The Grounds Machinery Operator is responsible for the safe operation of various light machinery and vehicles to maintain university landscapes and sports fields. They will also assist with the installation and repair of site furniture, signage, and fencing while maintaining accurate equipment records.

Requirements

Candidates must possess a Grade 12 education and a valid DZ driver's license. A minimum of one year of experience operating tractors, loaders, and mowers is required, along with a strong commitment to safety practices.

Listed skills

• Teamwork · Preferred
• interpersonal skills · Preferred
• Safety Compliance · Preferred
• record keeping · Preferred

Other relevant skills

Identified from the job description. Confirm important requirements above.

• Equipment operation
• Tractor operation
• Loader operation
• Mower operation
• Snow removal
• Chain saw operation
• Woodchipper operation
• Hydraulic sprayer operation
• Vehicle maintenance
• Record keeping
• Safety compliance
• Interpersonal skills
• Oral communication
• Teamwork
• Landscape maintenance

Job areas

• Trades
• Environmental & Sustainability
• Transportation
• Education
• Security & Safety

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