Horticulture Technician

Loudoun County Government; Virginia; On-site; USD 35,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

The Loudoun County Department of Parks, Recreation, and Community Services is seeking a Horticulture Technician. This full-time role involves specialized horticultural duties, including using herbicides, pruning, and maintaining plantings across various municipal facilities. Candidates should have a background in horticulture or arboriculture, with responsibilities that encompass soil management, facility evaluations, and machinery upkeep.

Qualifications

• Three years of related work experience in horticulture or arboriculture.
• Valid Registered Technician certification is required.
• ISA Certified Tree Worker or Arborist certifications preferred.

Responsibilities

• Implement pesticide treatments and execute advanced soil assessments.
• Conduct operations for machinery and tool maintenance.
• Perform research and analyze soil conditions for effective turf management.

Skills

Understanding of horticulture principles

Ability to operate backpack sprayers

Knowledge in biology and taxonomy

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

Backpack sprayers

Chainsaws

Mobile computing tools

Job description

Salary offers are based on information contained within the application and any attachments (resume, certifications, etc.). Please ensure your profile and resume are up to date with all experience, education, and skills you wish to be considered.

Loudoun County Parks, Recreation & Community Services (PRCS) is dedicated to connecting all communities through exceptional people, parks, and programs. Our goal is to make Loudoun the community of choice through outstanding experiences while promoting diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility. We celebrate the strengths of individuals and collaborate to deliver programs and community services that provide social, personal, economic, and environmental benefits to last a lifetime. Come be a part of something that matters!
The Loudoun County Department of Parks, Recreation, and Community Services is actively seeking qualified individuals for a full-time position as a Horticulture Technician. This role primarily involves carrying out specialized horticultural duties at municipal facilities throughout the county, both independently and as part of a team. Key responsibilities include the application of herbicides and pesticides, as well as pruning, installing, and maintaining high-value plantings. Additionally, the position requires conducting root-flare excavations, managing invasive exotic species, modifying plantings in the field, and implementing precision fertilization techniques. The Horticulture Technician also provides training and supervision to contractors involved in horticultural activities for the program.

We are currently hiring for the following location(s):

• 849 Trailview Boulevard, Leesburg, VA
• 22914 Hanson Park Drive, Aldie, VA
  
  Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
  
• Implements pesticide treatments; executes advanced pruning, watering, soil assessments, and fertilization; designs, constructs, and repairs landscape installations; in addition to testing, programming, and supervising.
• Evaluate the facilities within the county.
• Performs research and analyzes soil conditions to facilitate effective turf grass management, alongside strategies for weed and pest control.
• Conducts operation and maintenance activities for machinery, equipment, vehicles, and tools.
• It is possible that other essential duties related to the specific role and department may be performed.
  

High school diploma or equivalent; three (3) years of related work experience in horticulture or arboriculture; or equivalent combination of education and experience.

Preferred Qualifications:

• A preferred background includes understanding the principles, practices, and techniques associated with horticulture, arboriculture, tree physiology, and the ANSI A300/Z133 industry standards, along with knowledge in biology, taxonomy, grounds maintenance, and landscape construction.
• Ability to effectively operate and handle backpack sprayers, chainsaws, blowers, water trailers with pumping mechanisms, trucks for trailer towing, and mobile computing tools for field documentation, pesticide record maintenance, and inventory oversight.
• ISA Certified Tree Worker or Arborist certifications preferred.
  

Must undergo criminal, credit, and DMV backgrounds. A valid driver’s license and good driving record are required. Driving records may be evaluated on an annual basis to ensure ongoing qualification. Valid Registered Technician certification is required. Certified Commercial Pesticide Applicator and Certified Fertilizer Applicator certifications are required within 6 months of employment. County, e-learning as required. The department may require additional certifications related to the position.