Gardener III

GENERAL PURPOSE

Performs a variety of semi-skilled and skilled maintenance work, and operates a variety of equipment in the general care of trees, shrubs and flowers in the Historic Downtown District, City parks or on the grounds of a building or public institution; and does related work as required.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED

Works under the general supervision of the Division Manager.

SUPERVISION EXERCISED

None generally. May serve as a lead worker over lower level maintenance workers and/or volunteers.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Performs required labor involved in projects as an individual or as part of a crew such as: tree, annual, perennial, shrub installation and maintenance in both low and high intensity landscapes, minor irrigation work, site preparation and grading, mulching, pruning and trimming, weeding, application of fertilizers and chemicals as needed, turf maintenance as needed.

Assists with the planning, scheduling and implementation of horticulture projects and operations designed to provide quality services for the city.

Maintains a variety of records relating to operations.

Drives trucks of various sizes and weights in the loading, hauling and unloading of various equipment, plants, and landscape materials. Operates light and medium‑sized construction and power equipment, such as a tractor or backhoe/loader.

Insures the proper maintenance of equipment/tools by cleaning and checking equipment/tools after use and refers defects or needed repairs to supervisor.

Assists in the training of volunteers and/or employees to increase their skills best management practices

Performs all duties in conformance to appropriate safety and security standards.

DESIRED MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Education and Experience:

(A) Graduation from high school education or GED equivalent, and

(B) Four (4) years of experience relating to horticulture, landscaping, or

(C) Any equivalent combination of education and experience.

Necessary Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Considerable knowledge of techniques, methods and procedures used in landscape installation and maintenance activities
• Considerable knowledge of commonly used plant material, gravels, mulches, soils
• Display commitment to excellence and have a keen eye for garden detail

(B) Skilled in the operation of tools and equipment

(C) Ability to perform heavy manual tasks for extended periods of time; Ability to work safely; Ability to communicate effectively verbally and in writing; Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with employees, other departments and the public; Ability to understand and carry out written and oral instructions