Horticulturalist III- Parks and Recreation

Unified Government of Wyandotte County; United States; On-site; USD 30,322 - 43,186; Full time

Job summary

The Unified Government of Wyandotte County seeks a Horticulturist III to enhance community spaces. This role combines hands-on landscaping tasks with project coordination within the Parks and Recreation Department.

The ideal candidate will oversee diverse landscaping activities, requiring expertise in horticulture and landscaping equipment usage, along with a commitment to safety and teamwork. The salary is $26.68 per hour, and applicants must have a high school diploma, relevant licenses, and the ability to pass background checks.

Qualifications

• Thorough understanding of modern horticulture and landscaping principles.
• Ability to follow written and oral instructions effectively.
• Experience with landscaping and turf maintenance equipment.

Responsibilities

• Operate hand and power tools associated with landscaping.
• Plant, water, and maintain plants, flowers, and turf.
• Coordinate and apply herbicides and pesticides to landscape areas.

Skills

Landscaping and plant care

Operation and maintenance of landscaping equipment

Irrigation systems maintenance and safety

Effective communication

Education

High school diploma or GED

Pesticide applicator license

Kansas Commercial Driver’s License Class B

Job description

As a condition of employment, all employees must pass a post‑offer criminal history background check, physical examination, drug screen, and submit proof of identity and employment eligibility.

Horticulturist III

Join the Unified Government of WYCO/KCK Parks and Recreation Department as a Horticulturist III and contribute to the enhancement of vibrant community spaces. This role balances hands‑on landscaping with coordination of complex projects and record management.

Responsibilities

• Operate hand and power tools associated with landscaping.
• Operate turf aerating and other landscaping equipment.
• Plant, water, fertilize, mulch, and maintain shrubs, flowers, trees, and turf.
• Coordinate, calibrate, mix, and apply herbicides and pesticides to landscape areas and keep accurate records.
• Install, prune, trim, and remove shrubs, trees, and stumps.
• Assist with the design, installation, maintenance, and repair of irrigation systems as required.
• Supervise and train horticulture I and II staff and seasonal landscape maintenance personnel.
• Clean, service, and perform minor repairs on assigned tools, equipment, and machinery.
• Assist in the design, development, and maintenance of landscaped planting of trees, flowers, and other plant materials.
• Operate or drive specialized equipment such as loaders, tractors, lawn mowers, and power and hand tools.
• Complete and maintain records of time, materials, and equipment usage.
• Remove trash and debris from work areas.
• Assist with snow removal as needed.
• Perform related duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Thorough understanding of landscaping and plant care, including modern and complex principles of horticulture, arboriculture, landscaping, and hardscape construction.
• Operation and maintenance of landscaping equipment and tools.
• Maintenance and safety of irrigation systems.
• Awareness of occupational hazards and standard safety precautions.
• Ability to read and interpret maps, blueprints, and sketches using modern technologies.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to handle field and office work conditions.
• Effective communication and teamwork in a diverse workplace.
• Planning and organizing maintenance schedules for landscaped areas and equipment.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED equivalent.
• Ability to understand and follow written and oral instructions.
• Experience with landscaping and/or turf maintenance equipment.
• Pesticide applicator license with certifications in 3A, 3B and Kansas Arborist Association or ISA certification.
• Kansas Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Class B with air brakes (or ability to obtain one within 6 months).
• Valid Kansas driver’s license with acceptable driving record.
• Ability to pass a criminal background check.

Preferred Qualifications

• Previous experience in municipal or commercial landscaping.
• Additional pesticide applicator certifications in 5, 9A.

Salary

Salary Range: $26.68 per hour.

Equal Opportunity Employer

The Unified Government of Wyandotte County/Kansas City, Kansas is an Equal Opportunity Employer and values diversity in its workforce.