Horticulturist

Bok Tower Gardens, Inc.; Lake Wales (FL); On-site; USD 40,000 - 52,000; Full time

Job summary

Bok Tower Gardens, Inc. is seeking a Horticulturist to uphold and enhance the Garden's horticultural quality. The role collaborates with the Horticulture Supervisor and contributes to educational and promotional programs.

The position requires experience in landscape gardening, operation of power equipment, and the ability to work outdoors in varied weather conditions. The successful candidate will participate in seasonal activities and support special events.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Two years of experience in horticulture or related work.
• Must have a valid Florida driver’s license.
• Ability to work outdoors in all types of weather.
• Ability to operate power equipment safely.

Responsibilities

• Maintains displays and gardens at the highest level of quality by preparing plant beds, installing woody and herbaceous ornamentals, perennials, annuals, and bulbs.
• Weeding, digging, propagating, transplanting and pruning; and applying fertilizer.
• Practicing Integrated Pest Management (IPM) as directed by the Horticulture Leadership Team.
• Operates and performs basic maintenance on landscape equipment (mowers, edgers, blowers, trimmers, etc.).
• Utilizes latest landscaping techniques, fertilizers, pesticides, plant identification, and equipment service.

Job description

Description

Mission

The Horticulturist is responsible for achieving and maintaining a high level of horticultural quality in the Garden, to ensure that Garden is planted and maintained at the highest levels of quality. The Horticulturist shares responsibility for the success of Bok Tower Gardens.

This role consistently upholds and supports Bok Tower Gardens’ mission, vision, and cultural values.

Core Duties/Responsibilities

• Maintains displays and gardens at the highest level of quality by preparing plant beds, installing woody and herbaceous ornamentals, perennials, annuals, and bulbs
• Weeding, digging, propagating, transplanting and pruning; and applying fertilizer
• Practicing Integrated Pest Management (IPM) as directed by the Horticulture Leadership Team.
• Operates and performs basic maintenance on power and hand-held landscape and gardening equipment (mowers, edger’s, blowers, trimmers, chain saws, etc.).
• Utilizes the latest techniques in landscaping and gardening; fertilizers and pesticides; plant identification; equipment operation and service; and cultural practices of landscape plant materials.
• Provides information to the Horticulture Manager and the Director of Horticulture on the development of his/her designated garden area and participates in plans and designs for their assigned areas.
• Directs volunteers and provides directions to gardeners as needed to accomplish work lists
• Provides accurate and timely information to the plant records team concerning the addition and removal of plant material in the garden
• Produces both written content and in-person program delivery as requested for educational and promotional purposes.
• Participates in the production and support of special events and other seasonal activities.
• Undertakes other appropriate tasks as may be assigned.

Physical Requirements and Work Environment

Ability

• Vision
• Hearing
• Speech
• Dexterity

Physical

• Lifting – minimum 60 lbs.
• Kneeling
• Bending
• Visual Concentration

Environment

• Noise
• Dust
• Fumes
• Heat/Cold

Supervision

Receives general supervision and performance assessments from the Horticulture Supervisor.

Minimum Qualifications

Knowledge of landscape gardening and maintenance practices. Able to operate power equipment and machinery in a responsible and safe manner. Able to communicate effectively orally and in writing; ability to work effectively with other staff members as generally represented by a high school diploma or GED. Two years of experience in horticulture or related work. Applicants should be physically able to perform the duties required in maintaining a large garden and be able to work outdoors in all types of weather. Must have a valid Florida driver’s license.

Preferred Qualifications

• Florida Pesticide License
• FNGLA Certified Horticulture Professional