Horticulturist (Seasonal)

This position supervises and performs grounds and facilities maintenance work, leading field crews in the execution of maintenance operations and projects. The position directs and oversees horticulturist workers, seasonal employees, contractors, volunteers, and group work teams. This class works independently, under limited supervision, reporting major activities through periodic meetings.

Supervises, directs, and evaluates assigned staff, processes employee concerns, directs work, disciplines, and completes employee performance reviews.

maintains standards and quality control; inspects completed work assignments and sites; gives advice, direction, and training.

Enforces safety and PPE procedures to ensure safe operation of equipment and employee safety.

Provides technical assistance and instruction concerning operation and use of equipment, proper planting techniques, disease control, horticulture projects, and pesticide applications.

Operates heavy equipment such as backhoes, skid steers, tractors, forklifts, dump trucks, and snowplows, leading the execution of landscape operations and projects.

Manages field operations and designs for planting, pruning, fertilizing, spraying and removing trees, plants, shrubs, and flowers for effective botanical public areas and exhibit displays.

Oversees and performs the application of fertilizers, herbicides, and insecticides to promote plant health and control pests and invasive species.

Schedules, implements, conducts, and organizes landscape operations, pesticide applications, turf maintenance instructions and routine repairs of equipment and tools.

Establishes interdepartmental communication and scheduling, develops partnerships and collaborates with government departments, contractors, and keeper staff.

Recommends and procures equipment, materials, supplies and contract services.

Provides direction, supervision, training, and oversight to subordinates.

Bachelor’s Degree in Botany, Horticulture, Landscape Architecture, or related discipline.

Four (4) years of horticulture, botanical garden, landscape architecture, or landscape maintenance experience.

Must wear safety equipment as mandated by OSHA.

Must be certified as a Non-Commercial Pesticide Applicator in State of Kentucky under category N3 or obtain the certification within three months of employment.

Must possess and maintain a valid state driver’s license with an acceptable driving history.

Animals/wildlife

Electrical shock

Toxic/caustic chemicals; AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT COMPLIANCE
ADA requires the Louisville Metro Government to provide reasonable accommodations to qualified persons with disabilities. May be required to work nights, weekends, holidays and emergencies (man-made or natural) to meet the business needs of Louisville Metro Government.

It is the responsibility of each employee to comply with established policies, procedures and safe work practices. Each employee must follow safety training and instructions provided by their supervisor. Each employee must also properly wear and maintain all personal protective equipment required for their job. Finally, each employee must immediately report any unsafe work practices or unsafe conditions as well as any on-the-job injury or illnesses.