Horticulturist (Part-Time/Medical Benefit Eligible)

Saint Louis Zoo; St. Louis (MO); On-site; USD 20,664 - 27,552; Part time

Job summary

Saint Louis Zoo is hiring a Part-Time Horticulturist to assist with the maintenance and installation of landscaping throughout the Zoo. This role is pivotal for supporting the Zoo’s mission and ensuring proper care of outdoor spaces.

Ideal candidates should possess a high school diploma and knowledge of horticulture. The position involves outdoor labor, teamwork, and the operation of equipment.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Horticultural certification or undergraduate degree preferred.
• Knowledge in general landscape maintenance.
• Experience operating heavy machinery preferred.
• Possession of Missouri Class E Driver’s License needed.

Responsibilities

• Maintain landscapes through proper pruning and watering.
• Perform mulching, tree installation, and mowing tasks.
• Manage invasive species and safe chemical application.
• Direct traffic to ensure safety in the Zoo.
• Assist other departments collaboratively as needed.

Skills

Knowledge of landscape maintenance

Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite

Ability to operate machinery

Good attendance record

Commitment to high standards

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Horticultural certification or undergraduate degree

Tools

Riding mowers

Skid loaders

Job description

Location: Saint Louis Zoo – Forest Park

Division: Facilities & Planning

Department: Horticulture

Reports To: Manager, Horticulture

Classification: Non-Exempt/Hourly

Position Type: Part-Time/Medical Benefit Eligible

Position Summary: The Horticulturist will assist in the general maintenance and installation of the landscape throughout the Saint Louis Zoo. As an active member of Facilities & Planning, this position will support the Zoo’s mission and advocate the Zoo’s core values and three keys.

Responsibilities

• Monitor and maintain landscapes to ensure proper pruning, watering, fertilizing, pest, disease and weed management.
• Perform other horticultural tasks including but not limited to mulching, plant and tree installation, trimming, mowing, and leaf removal.
• Manage and remove invasive species.
• Responsible for chemical application to trees, shrubs, turf and other landscapes as deemed necessary.
• Operate and maintain horticulture-related equipment and machines.
• Direct traffic to ensure safety of pedestrians, operators, and work crew.
• De-ice and clear snow from walks, pathways, and parking lots throughout the Zoo during inclement weather.
• May be required to work weekend days to cover watering routines, storm damage and snow/ice events.
• Lead and direct any students, interns, or volunteer groups as available.
• Ensure that proper safety guidelines and usage of PPE are followed at all times.
• Know and understand the Zoo employee handbook, and adhere to all stated disciplinary actions and personnel policies.
• Work in close collaboration with all Zoo internal departments.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Horticultural certification or undergraduate degree preferred.
  • Equivalent experience may be considered in lieu of a degree or certificate.
• Knowledge and experience in general maintenance of turf, trees, shrubs, perennials, and ornamental grasses.
• Experience with operating equipment such as riding mowers and skid loaders preferred.
• Basic record keeping.
• Commitment to high standards.
• Good attendance record and work ethic.
• Versatility, flexibility, and a willingness to work within constantly changing priorities with enthusiasm.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite; especially Outlook, Word, Excel and PowerPoint.
• Possession or the ability to obtain a Missouri Class E Driver’s License is required for residents of Missouri.
• All successful candidates for this position will be required to undergo a criminal background check and a drug test. As this is a safety-sensitive role, a negative drug test result is mandatory. The drug test screens for five substances, including marijuana.

Physical Requirements

• Must be able to push, pull, bend, squat, stoop, and twist many times a day.
• Must be able to safely lift, carry and load 50 pounds.
• Physical capacity to endure exposure to inclement weather, dust, heavy machinery, restraint devices and hazardous chemicals. Use of proper PPE may be required.

Work Environment

• This position will work primarily outside with some in shop. Significant exposure to weather is possible.