Horticultural Specilist

UVA Health•Charlottesville, VA

4d•$20 - $24•Onsite

About The Position

Recognized as one of the most beautiful college campuses in the U.S., the University of Virginia is seeking a Horticultural Specialist who will provide expertise in the installation and maintenance of intensely planted garden demonstration areas throughout UVA Grounds. This role is responsible for fostering a sustainable and environmentally friendly approach towards maintaining horticultural beauty and health, applying deep knowledge of proper techniques, utilizing integrated pest management, and maintaining accurate records of efforts. Through collaborative partnerships, the Horticultural Specialist will participate in the ongoing development, renovation, and construction of displays. To be successful, the incumbent must possess considerable knowledge of horticulture principles and the practices applicable to maintaining formal gardens. This should include extensive knowledge of soil and plant health, identification and care of ground covers, bulbs, annuals, perennials and trees and shrub. Working knowledge of the principles and methods of garden construction, as well as the ability to operate large and small equipment is necessary. The Horticultural Specialist must be able to use judgment and initiative while working independently to successfully complete work assignments with minimal of supervision. This role requires strong communication skills and the ability to foster positive interactions with departmental staff in addition to students, faculty and staff, and the visiting public.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent
Four years of experience.
Valid VA driver's license.

Nice To Haves

Horticultural or related degrees
Maintenance or installation of intensely designed gardens
Any Horticulture Related Certificate (i.e VNLA, PGMS, VTC, CBLP)
Certification may be required within 12 months of hire for specific equipment usage and/or specialty.

Responsibilities

Apply subject matter expertise of a wide range of plant species and current standards to properly plan, install, and maintain horticultural displays and gardens.
Perform a daily maintenance and cleaning routine to remove weeds, debris and litter from demonstration areas. This includes keeping walkways clear and ensuring hardscapes are in good order to promote both beauty and the safety of students, staff, and visitors. Snow removal, leaf removal, and storm damage clean up are also within the realm of garden maintenance.
Protect all plant material within the assigned garden from the damaging effects of pest and disease, monitoring on a set schedule to detect early signs of damage, and implementing interventions including practicing Integrated Pest Management.
Properly install all new herbaceous and woody plant material, performing tasks including but not limited to choosing the correct mulch and applying it in the proper fashion, irrigating the collection and monitoring soil moisture, pruning, and fertilizer application.
Maintain up to date records, identifying key plants and key plant pest within the assigned area and treatments that are applied.
Provide hands-on training and enthusiastic leadership to Grounds Workers tasked with supporting the maintenance efforts in the assigned area.
Provide interpretation of the Formal Gardens, assisting with guided tours and other events as needed.