Horticulturist - Facilities Management

Southeast Missouri State University; Cape Girardeau (MO); On-site; USD 46,000 - 52,000; Full time

Job summary

Southeast Missouri State University is seeking a Horticulturist to manage landscape beds and planters on the Cape Girardeau campus. You will select plant materials, coordinate planting projects, and maintain all beds across Main and River Campus, including irrigation support and seasonal cleanup.

A valid driver's license and pesticide license (or timely acquisition) are required. The role involves outdoor work in varying weather, aStarting Wage of $23.37 per hour, and coordination with Grounds

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in horticulture or related field, or at least 1 year of industry experience.
• Valid driver's license is required.
• MO Pesticide License or must obtain within 90 days of hire.
• Ability to work in inclement weather and travel within 30 minutes of the University.
• Knowledge of planting, soil composition, and use of soil amendments; pruning techniques for plants, shrubs and trees.
• Experience with hand-held tools and grounds equipment; operate trucks/tractors of various sizes.

Responsibilities

• Select, order, and track landscaping plant materials and supplies.
• Oversee and coordinate small project teams during spring/fall plantings.
• Maintain university landscape beds and outdoor planters.
• Create a master planting plan for Main and River Campus beds and planters.
• Prepare beds/plants before spring/fall planting; maintain beds throughout season.
• Mow and trim university lawns; operate mowers and trimmers.
• Support campus irrigation and athletic field projects as needed.
• Clean and store equipment; handle snow and ice removal as necessary.
• Maintain a valid driver's license and travel when required.

Skills

Operate trucks and tractors

Planting and pruning knowledge

Customer service

Grounds maintenance

Education

Bachelor's Degree in Horticulture or Agriculture related field

1 year of industry work experience

Job description

Southeast Missouri State University

Salary: See Position Description

Job Type: Full-Time

Job Number: 202600340

Location: Cape Girardeau, MO

Department: Facilities Management

Closing: 10/23/2026 11:59 PM Central

Horticulturist

Facilities Management

Full Time

Starting Wage: $23.37 per hour

Primary Responsibilities

• Select, order and track landscaping plant materials and supplies
• Oversee and coordinate small project teams during spring/fall plantings
• Maintain University landscape beds and outdoor planters
• Work with Grounds Supervisor and Grounds lead to create a master plan of plantings for all Main and River Campus beds and planters
• Prepare all beds and planters prior to spring/fall planting
• Maintain all beds and planters throughout the season including watering, applying plant protection and nutrition products, weeding, and mulching
• Dispose of plant material and prepare beds at end of the growing season
• Mowing and trimming University lawns as directed
• Operate mowers and string trimmers to maintain University grounds
• Help with any other related project work on university grounds including campus irrigation, and athletic fields
• Clean the equipment and maintenance areas; return all equipment to the designated location at the maintenance facility
• Snow and ice removal as necessary
• Maintain driver's license

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree in Horticulture or Agriculture related field and/or minimum one year of industry work experience
• Demonstrated work history reflecting reliability and dependability
• Possess a valid driver's license
• Ability to work in inclement weather, including emergencies and snow removal, and live within 30 minutes travel time from the University
• Knowledge of proper planting, cultivating, and caring for plants
• Knowledge of soil composition and the use of soil amendments
• Knowledge of proper pruning techniques for plants, shrubs, and trees
• Demonstrated ability to use hand-held tools and grounds equipment
• Demonstrated ability to operate trucks and tractors of various sizes and weights in loading hauling and unloading various equipment and supplies
• Possess MO Pesticide License or must obtain within 90 days of hire
• Ability to stoop, bend, stand, walk, kneel or crouch frequently and for extended periods of time
• Ability to occasionally lift, carry and/or drag up to 50 pounds
• Ability to Follow Written and Verbal Instructions and Perform Duties with Minimal Supervision
• Demonstrated experience and understanding of customer service

Southeast Missouri State University is committed to providing equal employment opportunity and to the principles of affirmative action. In accordance with this commitment, and in compliance with the requirements of applicable laws, it is the policy of the University to provide equal opportunity for all applicants and employees in its employment practices, without regard to race, color, ethnicity, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, genetic information, disability, or protected veteran status. The University believes that a diverse University community advances the academic purposes of the University and enhances the working and learning environment.

About Southeast Missouri State University (SEMO): Founded in 1873 and accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, Southeast Missouri State University provides student-centered education and experiential learning with a foundation of liberal arts and sciences, embracing a tradition of access, exceptional teaching and commitment to student success that significantly contributes to the development of the region and beyond. SEMO values access to high quality, affordable education with a broadly representative student body, faculty and staff that respects and celebrates a diverse learning community in a global society.