Career Center

Under general supervision of the Manager of Grounds and Landscape Services, the Gardening Specialist performs a combination of specialized work in an assigned area which encompasses irrigation repair and maintenance work, pest and weed control, tree maintenance, athletic turf maintenance, and maintenance of gardening power equipment.  The incumbent will also make recommendations for the planning and development of special planting areas including soil amendments, irrigation, and plant selection.

Knowledge:
Thorough knowledge of the methods, plants, tools and equipment used in planting, cultivating and caring for flowers, shrubs, lawns and trees. General knowledge of the composition and structure of soil, Ph factors of soils, compatibility and incompatibility factors between soil and plants, difference between plant mixes, and erosion control.

Abilities:
Ability to identify, diagnose and treat plant disease, and correct plant nutrient deficiencies; prepare freehand sketches and make recommendations for possible improvements in landscaping within the assigned area; read and write at a level appropriate to the duties of the position; and follow oral and written instructions.

Experience:
Two years of experience in the care and maintenance of landscaped areas or general grounds, one year of which shall have been in either the maintenance, repair or modification of irrigation systems, specialized pest and/or spray control work, or cultivation and care of nursery plants.

License:
Possession of the appropriate California Department of Pesticide Regulation license to perform pest control work. Some positions may require possession of a valid California driver’s license.

Required Qualifications
Experience:
Experience performing specialized pest and/or spray control work (e.g. weeds, fungi).

Knowledge:

• Knowledge of installation and programming automatic irrigation controllers.
• Thorough knowledge of athletic and general turf maintenance.

Skills/Abilities:

• Ability to perform standard and specialized pruning of trees, shrubs and other plants as needed.
• Ability to perform maintenance, repair or modification of irrigation systems.
• Ability to operate and perform maintenance on small power-operated power mowers, small riding   mowers, and other gardening power equipment.
• Effective communication skills.
• Effective interpersonal skills.
• Excellent customer service skills.
• Ability to work independently as well as collaboratively in a diverse environment.
• Ability to use computerized maintenance systems.
• Commitment to maintaining a welcoming and inclusive work environment with diverse colleagues and constituents including faculty, students, staff, and members of the community.

License/Certificate:

• Must have or obtain Current Qualified Applicators Certificate (QAC) for pest and weed control related to landscape maintenance within twelve months of hiring date.
• Possession of a valid driver’s license and good driving record.

Physical Requirements:
Ability to frequently lift and carry gardening equipment up to 50 lbs.

Conditions of Employment:
Ability to pass a background check.

Preferred Qualifications

• Ability to provide lead work direction to students, Groundworkers or individuals in other grounds classifications.
• Ability to provide advice and assistance to others regarding proper care of flowers and ornamental plants, pruning, athletic field maintenance, and other technical skills.
• Experience establishing and maintaining preventative maintenance programs using computerized systems.

Required Licenses/Certifications (2)

• Must have or obtain Current Qualified Applicators Certificate (QAC) for pest and weed control related to landscape maintenance within twelve months of hiring date.
• Possession of a valid driver’s license and good driving record.

Documents Needed to Apply

• Resume
• Cover
• Copy of Required License
• Copy of Required Certification (if applicable)
• Failure to upload these documents to the online application may result in disqualification. Three professional references are required as part of the online application.