Jobs for People with MS: National MS Society

SUMMARY

The Lead Gardener, under the supervision of the Horticulture Manager, is primarily responsible forsupervising the Gardeners in the care of plants, landscape, and turf. Primary responsibilities focus on the care of intensified landscapes and assistance with the care of overall Gardens site. With input from, and consensus of, the Horticulture Manager, the Lead Gardener directly supervises and sets Gardens priorities for Gardeners. The Lead Gardener regularly delineates Gardens projects suitable for volunteer activities, and is responsible for direct supervision of horticulture Volunteers in the Gardens, and other areas as needed. The Lead Gardener has regular nursery and office duties, and is involved in the implementation of many horticultural programs, tours, events, and classes. The Lead Gardener may also participate in the implementation of other museum-sponsored programs, tours, events, and classes.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

• Direct Gardeners to perform plant, landscape, and/or turf maintenance as needed.
• Maintain hardscaping and landscaping at an acceptable level of excellence.
• Perform plant, landscape, and/or turf maintenance as needed.
• Alert supervisor to new or existing horticultural maintenance or supply needs.
• In conjunction with Horticulture Manager, plan and implement weekly horticulture Volunteer activities.
• Supervise horticulture staff and volunteers in the Gardens, and other areas as needed.
• Nursery sales and office duties as needed.
• Participate in the coordination and implementation of horticultural programs, tours, events, and classes as needed.
• After appropriate training, or with qualified applicators license, apply pesticide and record use of, with knowledge and consensus of Horticulture Manager.
• Maintain a continuous awareness and knowledge of safe work practices. Carry out all work duties in compliance with safety rules.
• Assist visitors in a friendly, professional manner.
• Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

• One (1) year education and two (2) years experience in horticulture, or equivalent experience in horticulture. Minimum one (1) year experience supervising staff.

1. KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Knowledge of commercial landscape design, construction, maintenance, irrigation systems and nursery operations.
• Familiarity with native plants of the region and knowledge of appropriate horticultural practices, landscaping principles and ornamental horticulture; turf maintenance; pesticide application and safe work practices.
• Strong interpersonal, organizational, planning, and communication skills.
• Ability to interact effectively with the public: adults, children, volunteers, docents, teachers, parents, coworkers, and management.
• Ability to use sound judgment and work independently or with direct supervision.
• Ability to drive a vehicle and willingness to learn any necessary heavy equipment operation.
• Employment contingent on passing a pre-employment physical and drug screening.
• Possess a valid California drivers license or be able to acquire within (10) ten days. Provide a clean DMV report if requested.

NOTE: These statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work involved for this job. It is not an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of this job.