Turf Specialist

Turf Specialist

Job Description:

The Turf Specialist will join Newton Cemetery & Arboretum’s team of industry professionals in the daily care and stewardship of a historic landscape, accredited arboretum, and active cemetery and will be immersed in an environment where new turf management strategies are being developed. As the successful candidate you will take a prominent role in helping to improve the Cemetery’s 100-acre grounds and will also work with grounds management and expert industry consultants on projects such as pond restoration and irrigation system development. In addition to working with the Cemetery’s Grounds Manager, the Turf Specialist position will provide an opportunity to learn from other grounds management professionals, such as the Cemetery Arborist, Horticulturist, and Greenhouse Manager. To summarize, this position will build a strong skill set for a career in any area of the turf and grounds management industry.

About Newton Cemetery & Arboretum- The historic Newton Cemetery & Arboretum is located at 791 Walnut Street in Newton, MA just west of Boston. An active cemetery and accredited arboretum, it is a non- profit Massachusetts Corporation founded in 1855 and governed by an elected board of trustees. Its mission is to operate and maintain a garden-type cemetery into the indefinite future for people of all faiths. The Cemetery grounds provide a tranquil, park-like setting for visitors and are open to the public every day of the year. Learn more at www.newcemcorp.org.

Job Functions

• Lead the establishment and maintenance of owner lots, corporate areas and landscaped areas using best management practices via the cemetery work order app
• Participate in the maintenance and repair of irrigation systems, irrigation pumps, and ponds
• Assist with pesticide and/or soil conditioner applications and recording and/or operate and calibrate pesticide application equipment
• Assist with fertilizer applications and recording and/or operate, and calibrate fertilizer application equipment
• Perform grounds management tasks at the direction of the Grounds Manager
• May serve in the Assistant Grounds Managers capacity in his/her absence.

Other requirements:

• Assist with funeral services
• Assist with Winter snow & ice removal
• Possess/ability to obtain a MA Pesticide Applicator’s License
• Knowledge of OSHA, CPR and First Aid or willingness to learn
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and computer competency
• Possession of a valid driver's license
• Ability to stand, walk, bend, squat and/or kneel for long periods of time
• Ability to lift up to 50lbs
• Willingness to work outdoors in inclement weather

Educational Requirements:

Associate degree with course of study in turf science/management, horticulture, forestry, botany, ecology, or similar area of study required.  Fluency in English required. Some knowledge of Spanish preferred.

Experience Requirements:

A resume which displays progressive professional development in a horticultural related field.

Special Requirements:

The candidate must be a team player willing to learn and participate in various Cemetery projects. Duties will require working outside in all weather conditions. The standard work week is Monday-Friday 7:00 am-3:00 pm with overtime when required.

Job Benefits:

Flexible work schedule, education/professional development, association dues, uniforms, phone stipend,

Date Job is Available:

03/01/2025

Hourly rate:

$21-25/hour w/overtime, dependent on previous experience.

Newton Cemetery & Arboretum is an equal opportunity employer.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $21.00 - $24.00 per hour

Expected hours: 40 per week

Benefits:

• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Schedule:

• 8 hour shift
• Monday to Friday
• Weekends as needed

Ability to Commute:

• Newton Center, MA 02459 (Required)

Ability to Relocate:

• Newton Center, MA 02459: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location: In person

Salary : $21 - $25