Park Horticulturist/Arborist

PRIMARY PURPOSE:

This full time position performs horticulturist and arborist duties in support of landscape development and maintenance throughout the city park system.

Performs other related duties as assigned.

SUPERVISION:

Under direct supervision of the Superintendent of Parks. Supervises work of full time Horticulture staff and part time/seasonal park laborers.

DESCRIPTION OF WORK:

1. Designs, installs, and maintains flowering beds made up of both perennial and annual plants.

1. Designs and maintains tree plantings to include pruning, mulching, fertilizing, pesticide applications, and dead/decayed tree removal.

1. Develops and implements plans and strategies for maintenance and improvement to lawn and turf areas.

1. Recommends and purchases supplies, materials, and equipment and tracks budget.

1. Plans and prepares annual budget for materials, equipment, and supplies related to horticulturalist activities.

1. Performs minor repair of tools and equipment.

1. Provides tree care training and horticultural related workshops for city employees and residents in cooperation with the Recreation division.

1. Assists Superintendent of Parks in solicitation of bid estimates and project specifications.

1. Assists in preparing applications for grants, certifications and other miscellaneous City tree and/or flower recognition programs.

1. Responsible for snow removal on park roadways and sidewalks, community center parking lot and sidewalks, using a variety of manual, mechanical, and chemical processes.

1. Assists other park maintenance division personnel in conduct of special events as required.

1. Supervises work activities of part time, seasonal, and full time workers assigned primarily to assist with horticulture related activities.

1. Responsible for but not limited to the maintenance of grounds, mowing, aeration, fertilizing, seeding, and general grounds upkeep.

1. Performs administrative duties in the absence of the supervisor, including payroll processing, accident reports, processing of procurement card statements, and requisition entry.

MINIMUM EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS:

1. Minimum of Associate's Degree in Horticulture or related field; Bachelor's Degree preferred.
2. Three or more years of related or equivalent experience in designing, installing and maintaining landscapes.
3. International Society of Arboriculture certification preferred, must obtain certification within 18 months from date of hire.
4. Ability to read prints and schematics.
5. Valid Driver's License with the ability to acquire a CDL for aerial truck within 18 months from date of hire.
6. Knowledge of methods and practices related to spraying of pesticides, herbicides and fertilizers. Missouri Pesticide Applicator License preferred or obtained within 18 months of date of hire.

MENTAL EFFORT AND PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

1. Establishes and maintains effective working relationships with others.
2. Ability to follow oral and written instructions.
3. Effectively organizes and prioritizes work.
4. Ability to work independently.
5. Ability to learn the methods and standards of park operations.
6. Ability to effectively communicate with the public.
7. Have strength and dexterity to operate a variety of equipment and tools.
8. Able to lift and carry up to 50 pounds for short distances.
9. Must have good hand to eye coordination.
10. Must be capable of performing tasks in a variety of weather conditions.
11. Ability to perform tasks at or above head height.
12. Ability to work from heights, and climb and descend a ladder a minimum of four steps.
13. Ability to walk up to 5 miles per day.
14. Ability to stoop, bend, climb, and crawl as needed to adequately perform maintenance of parks.

WORKING CONDITIONS, ENVIRONMENT, AND POSITION RELATED HAZARDS:

Works indoors and frequently outdoors in all weather conditions. Exposure to dust, ice, snow, heat, rain, and physical hazards associated with working in this environment.

EQUIPMENT USED TO PERFORM THE JOB:

Single and double axle trucks Aerial bucket truck

Backpack blowers String trimmer

Log chipper Light and heavy-duty tractors

Snow blower Pruning tools

Two-way radio Calculator

Chain saw Front cut mowers

Tillers Sprayers

Personal computer

NOTE:

This job description in no way states or implies that these are the only duties to be performed by the employee occupying this position. Employee may be required to perform other duties as necessary for the effective operation of the department.

Current Openings for Park Horticulturist/Arborist Jobs at City of Kirkwood