Tractor Operator (Gardener)

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Maintain the grasses of the golf course by operating both field and farm-type tractor on level or rolling terrain. Frequently operates towed or attached equipment (e.g., mowers, aerators, plow spreaders, harrows, sprayers) manipulating both tractor and equipment controls at the same time through hydraulic or mechanical controls. Operates boom slope mowers to cut grass on slopes while operating the tractor on level ground along roads. Operates tractors and equipment between shrubs and trees; along fences and curbs; in snowy or marshy areas; and in areas where tree limbs, bushes and rocks are more likely to cause clogging or jamming of the equipment. Determines equipment operations for maneuvering over level or rolling terrain that are appropriate to the operating characteristics of the tractor and towed or attached equipment. Operates a variety of gasoline, diesel or electric powered-wheeled vehicles, such as platform trucks, van trucks, stake trucks or dump trucks that typically have a gross vehicle weight (GVW) of more than 10,000 and up to 26,000 pounds.

Uses and maintains a variety of hand and power operated garden tools and equipment such as seeders, spreaders, edgers, hedge trimmers, pruning shears, sprayers, spades, hoes, weed eaters, rakes and mowers. Washes, cleans, oils, sharpens, lubricates and performs minor maintenance on equipment.

Determines when and how to plant/transplant flowers, shrubs, grass and trees based on seasonal schedules or project plans for the golf course, suitability of the weather, degree of moisture in the soil and stage of plant growth. Determines quantities of plants, seeds, fertilizer and other materials needed for specific areas. Landscapes assigned areas and determines need for spreading topsoil, fertilizing, liming, seeding, planting and watering. Mows and trims grass; weeds flowerbeds; waters lawn and nursery; and prunes/trims shrubs and trees to obtain the shape, size and growth required.

Performs grounds maintenance work such as mowing, weeding, watering, pruning and trimming, sod, selecting and applying established gardening methods. Makes proper cuts using pruning shears, saws, and other tools; seals tree wounds with coating mixtures in order to protect and minimize damage.

Observes all safety rules and regulations pertaining to vehicle operation. Performs pre-check and post-check on all equipment used to include tractors and vehicles. Monitors equipment and vehicles during use and reports any issues immediately.

Performs other related duties as assigned.