Fine Gardens Supervisor

Fine Gardens Supervisor

The Fine Gardens Supervisor works closely with their manager and serves as a key leader within the Nursery team, which includes part-time staff, student employees, and volunteers. This is a hands-on supervisory gardener position responsible for coordinating and directing daily tasks related to the care, the presentation of the grounds and gardens. The role includes the ability to lead and co-direct the nursery crew in the absence of the Nursery Supervisor. The position contributes professional knowledge and experience to the team while remaining open to learning and applying established methods and practices that have proven effective. Enthusiasm, a strong work ethic, professional demeanor, creativity, and collaborative approach are essential to success. The scope and level of responsibility may evolve as the campus gardens continue to develop. This position may also provide periodic support for other Facilities Management departments as operational needs require.

Required Qualifications

• Associate's of Applied Science (AAS) degree in Horticulture or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education, experience, and training.
• Valid driver's license with a safe driving record; ability to safely operate a truck with a trailer in compliance with all safety protocols.
• Broad knowledge of landscape tools and power equipment operation and maintenance, with the ability and willingness to train others.
• Demonstrated horticultural experience in high-end public gardens, or similar landscape settings within the Mid-Atlantic region; ability to identify plant varieties and recognize stressors such as light, moisture, pests, and disease, with exceptional attention to detail, accuracy, and follow-through.
• Demonstrated ability to independently supervise and manage staff in a team leader or supervisory capacity and immediately perform as independent manager (typically 2+ years).
• Supervise, train, and coordinate a dynamic workforce consisting of up to four volunteers, two part-time staff, and five student employees across all relevant tasks.
• Valid Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) pesticide applicator (Category 3A) license or transferable equivalent, credential, or the ability to obtain certification within 12 months of hire.
• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to collaborate effectively and foster positive working relationships.
• Demonstrated passion for plants, horticulture, and garden stewardship.
• Self-motivated with sound judgement, and strong time-management and organizational skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to maintain confidentiality and exercise professional discretion.
• Familiarity with Microsoft Office applications and mobile technology.
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds and lift heavier loads with assistance.
• Ability to work effectively in a variety of weather and environmental conditions.
• Availability to work weekends, holidays, during inclement weather, and in emergency situations; emergency staff availability is required when required by the University.

Conditions of Employment

• This position may require additional hours beyond the typical 40-hour work week, to include occasional evening, night and weekend work, and/or overnight travel, as needed to meet the business needs of the operation.
• This position is requires the ability to remain seated while operating motor vehicles for extended periods of time, stand for prolonged periods, walk, climb stairs, bend and twist at the waist and knees – including while emptying waste receptables and maneuvering carts and containers - reach with hands and arms, push and pull, and stoop, kneel, and crouch. The employee must frequently lift and/or move objects weighing 40-60 pounds.
• This position involves working outdoors year-round in all weather conditions, including temperatures below 32 degrees and above 90 degrees, and during inclement weather.
• This position has been designated as essential and may require reporting to work when the University is officially closed.
• This is a non-exempt position, and eligible to receive overtime in accordance with the Fair Labor Standards Act.

Job Duties

45% - Supervision and Hands-on Garden Operations:

• Supervise and perform a variety of hands-on daily tasks, including training and educating staff on established methods and best practices.
• Responsibilities to include preparing soil for planting and transplanting; plant division and propagation; proper plant labeling; and tool sanitation.
• Maintain and enhance designated garden areas through routine cleaning, pruning, weeding, dead-heading, digging, transplanting, and applying appropriate soil amendments.
• Provide pathways and upkeep to ensure safety and appearance.
• Assist with seasonal color change-outs and plant installations.
• Receive plant and supply orders, verifying deliveries and document overages, shortages, or damage. Troubleshoot and perform basic repair on power tools and irrigation/watering systems.
• Monitor plant health by scouting for pests, diseases, and overall quality, and report findings to the supervisor.
• Operate and maintain horticultural equipment in a safe and effective manner.

40% - Vendor Coordination, Maintenance Oversight, and Garden Standards:

• Supervise and oversee vendors and/or contractors as needed to ensure work is completed according to specification and standards.
• Process work orders and assist with garden and site set-ups, particularly during peak event seasons. Coordinate with the manager to plan and deliver routine and specialized maintenance of garden areas, including irrigation management, pruning and trimming, fertilization programs, and integrated pest and disease control.
• Implement and manage seasonal crop rotations and garden bed layouts in alignment with established planting plans and design standards.
• Prepare and submit required reports as directed by the manager, with particular attention to documentation related to donor-funded activities.
• Ensure designated garden beds are maintained to the highest professional standards using best practices and current methods.
• Remain proactive and informed regarding new industry products, equipment, regulations, and emerging trends to support continuous improvement.

10% - Long-Range Planning, Program Development, and Professional Advancement:

• Research, propose, and implement long-term enhancements to garden operations and associated programs, and provide strategic recommendations and updates to the manager as appropriate.
• Develop and maintain a three-year project forecast, including analysis and related expenditures and funding opportunities, such as Green Fee and similar programs, in collaboration with internal and external partners.
• Support the Living Remembrance Program through oversight of installation, ongoing maintenance, and accurate record keeping, as directed.
• Actively pursue advanced technical certifications in landscape, horticulture, irrigation systems, equipment operation.

5%- Oversight of Equipment and Supply Management:

• Supervise and maintain accurate inventory and condition assessments of equipment and supplies, and work with staff and vendors to ensure equipment is properly maintained and fully operational.

Hiring Range: up to $52,000 commensurate with experience.