GARDENER 2 - FORESTRY

City of Wichita Kansas; Wichita (KS); On-site; USD 40,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

The City of Wichita is seeking a Gardening and Grounds Maintenance Supervisor to oversee landscaping and maintenance tasks. The role includes supervising staff, maintaining equipment, and ensuring safety standards. Candidates should possess horticultural knowledge and relevant experience. This position offers a structured schedule and the opportunity to work in a dynamic environment.

Qualifications

• At least one year of experience in horticultural maintenance.
• Ability to obtain Kansas Commercial Pesticide Applicator Certification.

Responsibilities

• Maintain trees and grounds, including pruning and fertilizing.
• Supervise other employees as required.
• Operate and maintain gardening equipment.

Skills

Knowledge of tools and equipment

Understanding of safety precautions

Working knowledge of horticulture

Skill in using hand and power tools

Communication skills

Job description

Gardening and Grounds Maintenance Supervisor

This position involves gardening, grounds maintenance, and supervisory responsibilities. Work is performed independently under general supervision, with technical guidance provided by a supervisor.

Work Location and Hours

Location: 1700 S Hydraulic, Wichita, KS

Schedule: Monday - Friday, 7:00 AM - 3:30 PM

Additional Details

Bargaining Unit: Service Employee's International (SEIU)

Note: Employees within the department or division shall be given first consideration. Posting may close at any time.

Responsibilities

1. Maintain trees, including cultivating, transplanting, irrigating, pruning, spraying, and fertilizing.
2. Maintain cleanliness and general upkeep of work-related equipment, vehicles, and trailers.
3. Remove snow from walks and other designated areas.
4. Prepare tree stock prior to planting season.
5. Operate and maintain spray equipment for pest control as needed.
6. Ball and burlap trees as necessary.
7. Supervise other employees as required.
8. Operate forestry-related small engine equipment, including chainsaws.
9. Repair irrigation systems.
10. Perform other related duties as assigned.

Qualifications and Skills

• Knowledge of tools, equipment, materials, and methods used in gardening and grounds maintenance.
• Understanding of hazards and safety precautions related to the work.
• Working knowledge of horticulture, floriculture, irrigation, plant diseases, pests, and control methods.
• Skill in using standard hand and power tools for propagation and cultivation.
• Ability to operate large garden tillers and chainsaws safely.
• Physical ability to lift up to 150 pounds with assistance, shovel snow, and perform outdoor tasks in various weather conditions.
• Ability to plan, organize, and supervise work effectively.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to obtain and maintain Kansas Commercial Pesticide Applicator Certification (Category 9A--Noxious Weeds or as designated).
• Valid Kansas Class A Commercial Driver's License (CDL); if not held, must obtain within six months of hire.
• Must not pose a health or safety threat to others in the workplace.

Required Experience and Training

• At least one year of experience in horticultural maintenance, tree care, or landscape maintenance.
• Valid driver's license.
• Within six months of hire, obtain Kansas Class A CDL if not already held.
• Within one year, obtain Kansas Pesticide Applicator Certification if required.
• Legal authorization to work in the United States without sponsorship.

Preferred Experience and Training

• Possession of a Kansas Class A CDL is preferred.

Additional Information

This position is part of a random drug testing pool, and employment offers are contingent upon passing a pre-employment physical, drug screening, and criminal record check. Starting pay will be determined by City policy or bargaining agreement for current employees.