Gardener- Overlook
About The Position
The Gardener performs gardening and related work on the grounds and/or in conservatories, with a focus on naturalistic plantings consisting primarily of perennials and woody plants. The position is also responsible for the care of Brooklyn Botanic Garden’s Lilac Collection. Although the current staffing plan assigns the gardener to the Overlook, the incumbent may be reassigned to another area of the Garden as appropriate. The gardener works under the guidance of the Director of Horticulture and the general supervision of the Horticulture Manager and Foreperson of Grounds. The role may include supervising assigned subordinate employees, temporary workers, and volunteers.
Requirements
- Two years of college and/or an associate degree related to horticulture; or three years of full-time, paid experience maintaining trees, shrubs, herbaceous plants, and lawns and operating and maintaining gardening tools and equipment; or a satisfactory equivalent combination of education and experience.
- Valid driver’s license.
- Ability to pass a physical examination by a doctor verifying fitness to perform job functions.
- Ability to pass a written examination and/or practical test.
- Ability to obtain and maintain pesticide apprentice certification.
- Ability to lift up to 50 pounds.
Nice To Haves
- Experience working with native perennials, grasses, small trees, and shrubs.
- Experience in weed management and Integrated Pest Management methods.
- Ability to work both individually and collaboratively.
Responsibilities
- Plant, cultivate, water, fertilize, prune, weed, and mulch trees, shrubs, flowers, lawns, and other flora on the grounds and in conservatories.
- Inspect for pest problems and treat them using Integrated Pest Management techniques.
- Operate and maintain hand and power gardening tools and small equipment; make necessary operating adjustments and report repair or replacement needs.
- Operate large power-gardening equipment, including tractors, mowers, rototillers, rollers, or sprayers, as needed.
- Supervise assigned subordinate employees, temporary workers, and volunteers, and instruct them in gardening techniques and proper use and care of materials and equipment.
- Maintain records, including plant inventory control reports and label requests, and keep a log of plant collections and job-related activities.
- Perform tasks related to general grounds and conservatory care and Garden events as directed.
- Adhere to the policies of the Horticulture Department and Brooklyn Botanic Garden.
- Perform other related duties or special projects as directed.
- Care for Brooklyn Botanic Garden’s Lilac Collection.
Benefits
- Health insurance beginning on the date of hire, with a variety of plans available through the City of New York’s Office of Labor Relations, some at no cost to the employee.
- Dental, vision, and prescription benefits.
- Pre-tax benefits, including flexible spending, dependent care, and transit/parking accounts.
- CIRS pension and 401(k) plan for eligible employees.
- Life insurance and long-term disability insurance.
- Paid time off, including sick time, vacation time, and 13 annual holidays.
- Public Service Loan Forgiveness eligible employer.
- Museum pass offering free entry to many New York City museums.
- Free Garden admission for the employee and one guest.
- Employee discount at BBG’s retail shop and food venues.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Education Level
Associate degree
