Gardener

Amherst•Amherst, MA

4d•$23 - $25•Onsite

About The Position

Amherst College invites applications for the Gardener position. The Gardener is a full-time, year-round position. The salary offered will vary based on a number of factors, including but not limited to relevant education, training, and experience, tenure status, and other nondiscriminatory business considerations. Amherst College is pleased to provide a comprehensive, highly competitive benefits package that meets the needs of staff and faculty and their families. The Gardener supports the efforts of the Landscape and Grounds Department with planning and executing landscaping operations. Ensures proper maintenance of all horticultural aspects on campus. Assists in the planning, organizing and implementing new plants and renovations, as well as provides labor and equipment operation and support for all aspects of grounds work as required. The position is designated as providing essential services and may be required to report to work or remain on duty even though the College is closed. Our work is central to student life and their needs occur at a variety of times throughout the day, week, and year and in such, a flexible schedule with extended shift times and emergency call-ins may be required. The work schedule may vary and corresponds to the College’s operational needs, but generally is Monday through Friday.

Requirements

High School Diploma or equivalent
MA DOT card or ability to obtain one within 6 months of hire
Specialized training in the culture and maintenance of many types of plants
Pesticide and hoisting licenses or ability to acquire within 6 months of hire
A valid driver’s license and successful credentialing is required in order to operate college vehicles
Strong written and verbal communication, organizational and time-management skills, including the ability to plan, organize, and multitask when priorities change frequently
General knowledge in the selection and maintenance of plants
Experience in the operation of motorized vehicles and equipment; trucks, tractors, chainsaws, and general landscaping tools
Ability to work with garden design drawings
Knowledge and Experience in Irrigation maintenance and water conservation
Basic computer skills
Successful completion of required reference and background checks
An acceptable criminal offender records information (CORI) check
Successful completion of pre-employment physical and lift test

Nice To Haves

1 year of related vehicle operations and equipment use
1 year of snow plowing experience
1 year of experience within higher ed landscape and grounds
MA 1A hoisting license
Category 37 pesticide applicator
MA DOT License

Responsibilities

Provide labor support for all horticultural aspects of the diverse campus community, including pruning, trimming, weeding, fertilizing, spraying, repairing damaged areas, grading terrain, seeding, transplanting shrubs and plants, and brush, leaf, and snow removal.
Operate department equipment, including trucks, utility vehicles, tractors, saws, lawn mowers, tools, and snow equipment as needed. Inspect and perform minor and basic equipment maintenance.
Assist Special Services with the setup for special functions, including commencement, reunion, freshman orientation, etc. Support office moves as needed.
Assist Design and Construction with the planning and/or preparation of landscape projects, including inspection, work planning, maintenance, plant labeling, repair operations, and purchasing of materials.