Horticulturist

Description

Mission

The Horticulturist is responsible for achieving and maintaining a high level of horticultural quality in the Garden, to ensure that Garden is planted and maintained at the highest levels of quality. The Horticulturist shares responsibility for the success of Bok Tower Gardens.

This role consistently upholds and supports Bok Tower Gardens’ mission, vision, and cultural values.

Core Duties/ Responsibilities

Maintains displays and gardens at the highest level of quality by preparing plant beds, installing woody and herbaceous ornamentals, perennials, annuals, and bulbs

Weeding, digging, propagating, transplanting and pruning; and applying fertilizer

Practicing Integrated Pest Management (IPM) as directed by the Horticulture Leadership Team.

Operates and performs basic maintenance on power and hand-held landscape and gardening equipment (mowers, edger’s, blowers, trimmers, chain saws, etc.).

Utilizes the latest techniques in landscaping and gardening; fertilizers and pesticides; plant identification; equipment operation and service; and cultural practices of landscape plant materials.

Provides information to the Horticulture Manager and the Director of Horticulture on the development of his/her designated garden area and participates in plans and designs for their assigned areas.

Directs volunteers and provides directions to gardeners as needed to accomplish work lists

Provides accurate and timely information to the plant records team concerning the addition and removal of plant material in the garden

Produces both written content and in-person program delivery as requested for educational and promotional purposes.

Participates in the production and support of special events and other seasonal activities.

Undertakes other appropriate tasks as may be assigned.

Physical

Requirements

Physical Requirements and Work Environment

Ability

Vision

Hearing

Speech

Dexterity

Physical

Lifting – minimum 60 lbs.

Kneeling

Bending

Visual Concentration

Environment

Noise

Dust

Fumes

Heat/Cold

Supervision

Receives general supervision and performance assessments from the Horticulture Supervisor.

Minimum Qualifications

Knowledge of landscape gardening and maintenance practices. Able to operate power equipment and machinery in a responsible and safe manner. Able to communicate effectively orally and in writing; ability to work effectively with other staff members as generally represented by a high school diploma or GED. Two years of experience in horticulture or related work. Applicants should be physically able to perform the duties required in maintaining a large garden and be able to work outdoors in all types of weather. Must have a valid Florida driver’s license.

Preferred Qualifications

• Florida Pesticide License
• FNGLA Certified Horticulture Professional