Horticulturist I

The Horticulturists I perform under the supervision of the Urban Forestry and Horticulture Supervisor as a laborer implementing a full range of standardized forestry and horticultural practices on public landscapes and rights of way within the City of Florence. Duties include turf and landscape maintenance, urban forestry operations, Integrated Pest Management (IPM) and chemical/fertilizer application, as well as irrigation system installation and repair. Intermediate plant identification skills and knowledge of cultural requirements are necessary. All maintenance operations require the completion of work-related records and documentation. This position leads seasonal labor assigned to the work crew and performs related work in other areas as required. Candidate also assists the supervisor in implementing departmental programs and support activities.

1. Performs:
   • Turf and landscape maintenance at assigned facilities or locations
   • Turf overseeding, aeration, and top-dressing
   • Pruning, removal, and planting of trees, shrubs, and ornamental plantings
   • IPM activities; chemical measurement and mixing, herbicide and fertilizer application, insect control
   • Irrigation system installation, programming, and repair
   • Site design, preparation, planting, irrigation, and establishment of new and renovated ornamental plantings
   • Pruning and at-height operations utilizing a bucket truck
2. Assists supervisor by:
   • Maintaining field records of work completed
   • Maintaining field records of chemicals used and applied
   • Maintaining records of equipment, tools, and consumable supplies
3. Leads a small crew of workers on assignment.
4. Operates and maintains equipment and performs other duties as required.
5. Maintains good attendance and maintains a safe work environment.

1. Have 18 months to 3 years of experience in Horticulture or a strongly related field.
2. Minimum of a high school diploma; Associate degree or equivalent preferred.
3. Must have a Valid Class B Commercial Driver's License, or must obtain one within six months of hire date.

1. Strong understanding of horticultural terminology.
2. Intermediate plant identification skills and knowledge of cultural requirements.
3. Strong knowledge of operations involved in turf and landscape management.
4. Ability to appropriately time the application of fertilizer and herbicides to turf.
5. Strong knowledge of the use of turf and landscape maintenance equipment.
6. Strong knowledge of the safe operation of power equipment.
7. Possess the skills necessary to maintain plant health and diagnose problems.
8. Strong knowledge of various pruning techniques used to maintain trees and shrubs.
9. Strong ability to measure, weigh, and calculate volumetric and spatial quantities.
10. Possess the skills to prioritize daily and weekly workloads.
11. Possess the skills to prioritize tasks within a landscape, ensuring a high-quality ornamental presentation.
12. Ability to follow safety requirements and work effectively with other personnel.
13. Ability to handle public comments and complaints with restraint and tact.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS *WITH OR WITHOUT ACCOMMODATIONS:

1. Ability to work at extreme heights, 60 feet plus.
2. Ability to work in all weather conditions.
3. Ability to climb, stand, walk, stoop, and bend for a full 8-hour shift.
4. Ability to lift 50 pounds (more on occasion) to chest height.
5. Ability to work in and around moving equipment, vehicles, and traffic.

EQUIPMENT/TOOLS USED:

1. Mower, edger, line trimmer, and leaf blower.
2. Chain saw, pole saw, handsaw, hand pruners, and loppers.
3. Spray equipment, tractors, dump trucks, and bucket trucks.
4. Measuring cups (volume), scales (weight), and calculator (volumetric and spatial quantities).
5. Various hand tools for mechanical repairs.

Applications may be used for ninety (90) days for similar positions.

The City of Florence, Alabama is an Equal Opportunity Employer. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, the City will provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities.

Salary : $39,581