Gardens & Grounds Foreperson: IPM, Trees & Irrigation

Harvard University FAS Human Resources; Washington (District of Columbia); On-site; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, and vision insurance

Retirement plans with university-contt

Tuition assistance and reimbursement

Job summary

Harvard University FAS Human Resources seeks a Garden and Grounds Foreperson to coordinate horticultural programs, supervise crews, and oversee contracted work in irrigation, masonry, and arboriculture. The role emphasizes IPM oversight, plant health monitoring, and adherence to safety and environmental standards.

The position requires leadership in preventive maintenance, staff training, and collaboration with the Garden Director, with responsibilities spanning pest control, tree care, turf

Qualifications

• A bachelor’s degree in horticulture or related field, or equivalent experience.
• Five+ years maintenance of mechanical systems and equipment.
• Five+ years horticulture experience, preferably in public/historic gardens.
• Good communication and interpersonal skills; ability to oversee contractors.

Responsibilities

• Oversees Integrated Pest Management activities and ensures compliance with IPM practices and laws.
• Coordinates emergency and severe weather response with the Garden Director.
• Purchases and maintains equipment, tools, and staff supplies, including PPE.
• Oversees boxwood remediation activities and trains staff in best practices.
• Oversees pruning of trees and woody plants to ISA standards and safety.
• Schedules preventive maintenance on vehicles and ensures inspections/licenses.
• Oversees IPM program, pesticide inventory, disposal, and DOEE records.
• Oversees tree management, pruning, risk assessments, and planting planning.
• Coordinates turf maintenance, aeration, seeding, fertilization, and disease management.
• Provides technical support to crews on irrigation; leads small in-house repairs.
• Trains, coordinates, and supervises volunteers with Crew Leaders.
• Ensures irrigation system functioning across garden areas and seasonal start-up.
• Oversees masonry work, signage, and quality control as work progresses.
• Monitors tree health, maintains inventory, and coordinates with authorities for permits.
• Oversees pool mechanical systems, health inspections, and contractor coordination.
• Oversees skilled trades (blacksmithing, plumbing, electrical, carpentry) for safety and quality.
• Assists with other garden projects and acts in Director's absence when needed.

Skills

Five+ years maintenance experience

Five+ years horticulture experience

Strong communication skills

Ability to supervise contractors

Education

Bachelor's degree in horticulture or related field

Tools

DC DOH Certified Pool Operator license

ISA arborist certification

Valid driver's license

Spanish language skills

Job description

Harvard University FAS Human Resources seeks a Garden and Grounds Foreperson to coordinate horticultural programs, supervise crews, and oversee contracted work in irrigation, masonry, and arboriculture. The role emphasizes IPM oversight, plant health monitoring, and adherence to safety and environmental standards.

The position requires leadership in preventive maintenance, staff training, and collaboration with the Garden Director, with responsibilities spanning pest control, tree care, turf