Foreperson, Five Borough Program

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Reports to: Manager – Landscape Management

Department: Landscape Management

Status: Full time, Non-Exempt

About the Central Park Conservancy

Central Park is one of the world's most famous and beloved public spaces. Designed by Frederick Law Olmsted and Calvert Vaux in 1858, the 843-acre Park was the country's first purpose-built public park and is a National Historic Landmark and a New York Scenic Landmark. Central Park Conservancy, a private, not-for-profit organization, was founded in 1980 to rescue the Park, which had fallen into serious disrepair. Since then, the Conservancy has overseen the investment of over $1.6 billion in the restoration of the Park, which now hosts over 40 million visitors a year.

The Conservancy is one of the largest and most successful public private partnerships in New York City and is considered a major civic institution given its impact on the health and vibrancy of both the Park and the City. The Conservancy’s mission is to preserve and celebrate Central Park as a sanctuary from urban life. The City of New York has formally entrusted the care of the Park to the Conservancy which is responsible for every aspect of its care, including landscape maintenance, capital improvements, and the visitor experience. The Conservancy employs roughly 400 people and has an annual operating budget of $100 million.

The Position:

Working under the Assistant Manager(s) of the Five Borough Program, the Foreperson is responsible for working alongside and providing daily direction of staff, ensuring all work meets acceptable organizational practices at selected parks outside of Central Park. The work is at four parks in Harlem, with additional locations across the five boroughs of New York City. The Foreperson is expected to work with NYC Parks to perform their primary tasks.

Essential Duties

Responsibilities

Internal & External Collaboration

Minimum Requirements

Three years of increasingly responsible experience in maintenance work in the field of Landscape Management; or Education and/or experience equivalent to “1” above. However, all candidates must have demonstrated the ability to work well and collaborate with others. Valid Drivers’ License that must be maintained for duration of employment. Possess a fundamental understanding and knowledge of urban park landscape maintenance using modern practices. Associates Degree from accredited college in a related field, or equivalent combination of skills and experience.

Abilities Required

Ability to provide both oral and written communication that is easily understood and direct in its content. Ability to engage in critical thinking skills that allow for prioritizing issues, coordinating multiple projects and problem solving. Possess a fundamental understanding and knowledge of landscape management; ornamental and native plant material, cyclical care including planting, pruning, weed management and health care issues. Knowledge of computer equipment and Microsoft Office applications. Ability to work flexible hours, including overtime, weekends and holidays as needed. Ability to lift 50 lbs. and perform heavy physical labor on a daily basis in all weather conditions.

Salary range*: $56K-70K (based on level of experience)

DIVERSITY, EQUITY & INCLUSION

The Central Park Conservancy’s work is guided by the belief that Central Park, and all public parks, must be managed and actively protected as an inclusive and democratic space for all.

Working closely with our New York City partners, we will always strive towards creating and sustaining a sense of belonging for all visitors and advocating for equitable and accessible public use of the Park.

In service of this belief, we are committed to fostering a workforce and organizational culture that is as diverse as Central Park itself and the dynamic city it serves.

Safety Requirements

Establishment and maintenance of a safe work environment is the shared responsibility of this organization and employees at every level. The Conservancy will make every effort to assure a safe environment and be in compliance with federal, state, and local safety regulations. Employees are expected to obey safety rules and to exercise caution in all their work activities. Accordingly, employees should be aware of any hazards, which could cause an injury or accident (e.g., spills, obstacles in walkways, etc.). If an employee discovers a potential dangerous condition, he/she should alert other employees and notify his/her supervisor immediately.

Disclaimer

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified. All personnel may be required to perform duties outside of their normal responsibilities from time to time, as needed.