Physical Plant Laborer/Gardener

Class Specifications – G.15
Lead Physical Plant Laborer/Gardener – 8096
Physical Plant Laborer/Gardener (B) – 8097
Physical Plant Laborer/Gardener (A) – 8098

July 1973, Updated September 2026

Series Concept

Laborer/Gardeners perform unskilled and semi-skilled manual tasks to maintain or repair grounds, roads, walks, fences, and other facilities; assist Physical Plant Mechanics; and perform other duties as required.

Class Concepts

Lead Physical Plant Laborer/Gardener

Under general supervision, incumbents serve as working leaders of Physical Plant Laborers/Gardeners. This activity involves performing the work of a Physical Plant Laborer/Gardener, transmitting orders and explaining tasks to co-workers, and maintaining time and material records.

Physical Plant Laborer/Gardener (B)

Under supervision, incumbents work from written or verbal instructions to perform manual tasks and use hand tools and equipment as necessary.

Incumbents operate pneumatic tools, compressors, backhoes, and similar equipment. They finish concrete; repair roads; trim trees off a ladder; operate tractor mowers, tractors, rototillers, and power equipment such as lawn edgers, hedge shears, lawn spikers, chainsaws, lawn renovators, and spray nozzles.

Physical Plant Laborer/Gardener (A)

Under supervision, incumbents perform unskilled manual tasks, as instructed.

Incumbents dig and shovel earth; pour concrete; perform general gardening, such as watering, weeding, pruning, spreading fertilizer, picking up paper and debris, and cultivating; assist in setups, moving furniture, and helping trades workers; lift, carry and wheel materials; pick up and empty trash into trucks; sweep streets and driveways manually; and clean up during and after job performed by Physical Plant Mechanics.

Minimum Qualifications

Lead Physical Plant Laborer/Gardener

Ability to read, write, and perform basic arithmetic calculations, and two years of experience as a laborer/gardener; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Physical Plant Laborer/Gardener (B)

Ability to read, write, and follow oral and written instructions, and one year of experience as a laborer/gardener; and demonstrated ability to operate assigned tools and equipment; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Physical Plant Laborer/Gardener (A)

Ability to read, write, and follow oral and written instructions, and demonstrated ability to perform heavy manual tasks.