HORTICULTURAL SPECIALIST

Occupational Summary

Perform a variety of horticultural duties involved in the preparation, maintenance, planning and design of landscape enhancements for Duke University and Medical Center grounds; provide advanced technical support and assistance to grounds maintenance personnel.

Work Performed

Coordinate and participate in the proper care of Duke University landscape and grounds to include trimming, edging, weeding, watering, pruning of ornamental shrubs and plantings, application of herbicides, pesticides and fungicides, and application of seeds, bulbs, plants, mulch and fertilizers as directed. Participate in the removal of weeds, litter, and debris from Duke University landscapes.

Inspect assigned areas for plant damage, disease, soil erosion, or landscape problems; identify plants, insects, pests and diseases as appropriate; recommend corrective actions such as removal of plants or remedial treatments as appropriate.

Safely operate and maintain a variety of mechanical equipment to include specialized garden tools and a variety of hand-held power tools required to maintain high profile and critical landscapes.

This position is required to apply sound horticultural practices and integrated pest management procedures on campus and serve as an area plant care expert.

Additionally, the position will be required to troubleshoot any landscape maintenance concerns, and report findings to supervisor.

Assist in cleanup and repair during inclement weather events which may require working extended hours during these events.

The above statements describe the general nature and level of work being performed by individuals assigned to this classification. This is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities and duties required of personnel so classified.

Required Qualifications at this Level

Education/Training

Work requires knowledge of botany or horticulture normally acquired through a two year Associate degree program in horticulture or two years post secondary education in botany or a related field.

Must be able to obtain North Carolina Pesticide License

Experience

Work requires one year of experience in horticulture or related area to acquire technical skills necessary to perform such duties as plant cultivation, plant propagation, plant selection and other duties consistent with greenhouse maintenance. Public Garden experience preferred.

OR AN EQUIVALENT COMBINATION OF RELEVANT EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE

A valid driver's license is required.

Preferred Qualifications at this Level

Experience

Work requires three years of experience in horticulture and/or landscaping to acquire technical skills required in the performance of horticulture duties such as pruning, plant cultivation, plant selection, plant disease identification, and application of pesticides, herbicides, and fertilizers.

A Bachelor's degree in Horticulture, or a related field may offset two years of required experience.

OR AN EQUIVALENT COMBINATION OF RELEVANT EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE

Skills

• Must be able to understand and follow complex oral and written instructions and meet deadlines
• Requires accurate use and precise perception and judgement for: safe use of measuring devices; operation of machinery and equipment; operation of motor vehicles; and the general observation of surroundings and activities for the safety of individuals, staff and the general public
• Ability to work independently or in a team setting based on the assigned task
• Must possess strong leadership, planning, organizational, problem-solving and communication skills.
• Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions is required.
• Ability to safely maneuver material and/or equipment weighing 50 pounds or more.
• Availability and ability to perform snow/ice removal.
• Ability to identify and report common plant pests and diseases.
• Knowledge of annual plants, perennials, shrubs, and trees
• Knowledge of proper pruning techniques
• Have a working knowledge of plant nutrition, plant physiology, and basic soil chemistry.

Duke is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer committed to providing employment opportunity without regard to an individual's age, color, disability, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, or veteran status.

Duke aspires to create a community built on collaboration, innovation, creativity, and belonging. Our collective success depends on the robust exchange of ideas—an exchange that is best when the rich diversity of our perspectives, backgrounds, and experiences flourishes. To achieve this exchange, it is essential that all members of the community feel secure and welcome, that the contributions of all individuals are respected, and that all voices are heard. All members of our community have a responsibility to uphold these values.

Essential Physical Job Functions: Certain jobs at Duke University and Duke University Health System may include essentialjob functions that require specific physical and/or mental abilities. Additional information and provision for requests for reasonable accommodation will be provided by each hiring department.