Horticulturist

Position Summary: Responsible for hands-on implementation with ongoing contributions to the coordination of all aspects of landscape and garden maintenance. Ensures the grounds, gardens and improvements are maintained to the highest aesthetic standards. Help coordinate the gardening teams efforts with other staff and demonstrate a professional manner in dealing with family members and outside contacts.

Position Responsibilities:

• Partner with Horticulture Manager to meet objectives and partner with team members to provide property support
• Perform and oversee all aspects of landscape/garden maintenance, seasonal color coordination/maintenance and installation
• Make recommendations to improve and upgrade the level of detail, service, and operational sophistication
• Participate in the daily activities of the gardening support team to achieve the highest level of service, detail, and performance standards including plant and materials procurement and equipment management
• Conduct frequent reviews of the physical surroundings to ensure quality issues are identified, repaired, or reported to the appropriate department person
• Carry out special projects as required and directed by the Horticulture Manager
• Assist and make recommendations to the Horticulture Manager in establishing short and long-range plans
• Assist Horticulture Manager with contractor supervision
• Monitor and replenish fuel levels for both maintenance operations and family vehicles
• Complete miscellaneous projects and errands as required
• Maintain a flexible work schedule. Some unscheduled hours will be required

Essential skills and experience:

• College Degree in Horticulture or equivalent work experience 3-5 years landscaping or garden or nursery experience
• Excellent knowledge of landscape maintenance, seasonal color bed maintenance, perennials, water and plant care requirements, pruning, and fertilization techniques
• Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills; positive attitude
• Ability to operate heavy machinery, e.g. bobcat, loaders, etc.
• Ability to safely handle and apply pesticides
• Able to read difficult instructions and maintain written records
• Knowledge of all job related Federal/State rules/regulations / Adhere to all safety requirements
• Excellent knowledge of general office procedures; as well as intermediate knowledge smart phone and computer skills
• Excellent time management skills; ability to organize and coordinate multiple projects with available resources
• Keen attention to detail, honesty, adaptability, dependability, and a willingness to do hands-on work
• Ability to maintain a high level of strict confidentiality and professionalism
• Possess a valid drivers license with a good driving record

Valued but not required skills and experience:

• Private estate/hotel/hospitality/museum experience
• Bilingual in English/Spanish

Physical demands and work environment: The physical demands and work environment characteristics described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• Physical demands: Extensive standing, walking, bending and heavy lifting. Occasional desktop computer work.
• Work environment: Outdoor setting, rough terrain. Occasional office/cubical setting work. Noise level is moderate to loud.
• Travel: Some travel required, often on short notice.
• General sign-off: The employee is expected to adhere to and ensure compliance with all relevant OSHA safety regulations for all facility personnel; as well as all company policies, and to act as a role model in the adherence to policies.

All statements are intended to describe the general nature of work being performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities required of this role.

WHO ARE YOU?

You are a self-motivated, go-getter who takes extreme pride in their work. You require little supervision, and work well independently; but also enjoy being part of a team. You are detail oriented, and work well with structure and schedules; but you're fluid enough to change direction with little notice. You're open to feedback, because you always want to be just a little better than you were the day before. You think on your feet, and are an effective communicator - regardless of whether you're chatting with an intern or presenting to the CEO. You are able to manage multiple projects at once, and have great people management skills for when it's time to delegate. You're professional, but don't take yourself too seriously and have an excellent sense of humor. You consider your profession more of a lifestyle than just a job - and are passionate about the career path you've chosen for yourself. You are open-minded, and willing to speak up when you have great ideas. You aren't afraid of change, and seek out opportunities to improve processes. You're comfortable leading (and completing) projects, and do so with a positive attitude. You've taken on a lot in your career, and you're ready for your next challenge!

WHO ARE WE?

DFI is a private property management company dedicated to providing unparalleled Service Excellence to our clients. In support of our goal, we work hard to develop an amazing culture for our teams which extends far beyond a typical organization or benefits package. We offer many exciting programs that focus on developing the whole person - we work hard, play hard and know how to have FUN!

WHY DFI?

• Fun, team-oriented environment
• Competitive salary and performance based bonus program
• 100% employer paid medical, dental, and vision insurance for employees and their dependents (with participation in our Wellness Incentive Program)
• 401(k) + match
• Generous vacation and personal time off allowance
• Charitable donation matching program
• Training and development opportunities
• Programs and activities to encourage a balanced lifestyle

This is a drug free workplace where all candidates are required to complete a background check and drug test before employment

DFI is an Equal Opportunity Employer and Prohibits Discrimination and Harassment of Any Kind: DFI is committed to the principle of equal employment opportunity for all employees and to providing employees with a work environment free of discrimination and harassment. All employment decisions at DFI are based on business needs, job requirements and individual qualifications, without regard to age, race, color, religion or belief, family or parental status, or any other status protected by the laws or regulations in the locations where we operate. DFI will not tolerate discrimination or harassment based on any of these characteristics.