ASSISTANT HORTICULTURIST

Occ Summary

Perform a variety of horticultural duties involved in the preparation, maintenance, planning and design of landscape enhancements for Duke University and/or Medical Center grounds; research and analyze landscape problems and 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, pruning of trees and shrubs, application of herbicides, pesticides and fungicides, and application of seeds, bulbs, plants, mulch and fertilizers as directed; operate weed eaters, power edgers, power mowers, backpack sprayers, hoes, shovels, hand tools and related landscape equipment as required.
• 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.
• Provide advanced technical guidance to grounds personnel in the proper maintenance and care of shrubs, trees, flowers and groundcovers; instruct workers in cultivation requirements for decorative plantings and ornamental beds.
• Research, analyze and evaluate new and existing landscape plans based on a comprehensive assessment of aesthetic, soil, light, maintenance and cost considerations; recommend permanent and seasonal plantings as appropriate, to include plant selection and plant procurement.
• Assist in the development and implementation of new landscape plans; design and sketch ornamental plantings according to color schemes, plant characteristics, and landscape requirements; provide information and answer questions for departmental users relating to special landscape projects.
• Maintain field and project maintenance records as directed; prepare reports and analyses as requested by grounds management.
•  Perform other related duties incidental to the work described herein. 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.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

N/A

Anticipated Pay Range:

Duke University provides an annual base salary range for this position as USD $18.00 to USD $26.62. Duke University considers factors such as (but not limited to) scope and responsibilities of the position; candidate's work experience, education/training, and key skills; internal peer equity; as well as market and organizational considerations when extending an offer.

Your total compensation goes beyond the dollars on your paycheck. Duke provides comprehensive and competitive medical and dental care programs, generous retirement benefits, and a wide array of family-friendly and cultural programs to eligible team members. Learn more at: https://hr.duke.edu/benefits/

Essential Physical Job Functions: Certain jobs at Duke University and Duke University Health System may include essential job 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.

Education

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.

Duke is an 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 (including pregnancy and pregnancy related conditions), sexual orientation or military status.

Duke aspires to create a community built on collaboration, innovation, creativity, and belonging. Our collective success depends onthe 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 essential job 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.