Horticulture Specialist

Purdue University•West Lafayette, IN

36d

About The Position

The Horticulture Specialist supports the planning, propagation, installation, and maintenance of plants across campus. This role involves greenhouse operations, plant production, interior plant care, and outdoor landscape maintenance to ensure healthy, attractive plantings year-round.

Requirements

High School Diploma/GED
4+ years in Floriculture/greenhouse operations including growing, planting, and pesticide application
A combination of education and experience will be considered
Ability to read, write and speak English
Must be able to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing with supervisor, employees and customers
Ability to read, write and perform basic mathematics
Must be able to read and interpret blueprints and schematics
Good work organization and problem-solving ability
Must be able to grow a variety of bedding plants/perennials as well as grow and maintain interior plants
Skills in minor equipment maintenance necessary
Must be able to obtain 3A Pesticide Applicator's License within first year of employment; must also maintain license
Personal protective equipment will be required during specific work duties as determined by the department
Ability to lift and carry 10 to 25 lbs. frequently, and up to 40 lbs. occasionally required
Work outdoors in temperatures below 32 degrees and above 90 degrees
Valid driver's license required

Responsibilities

Maintain and grow plants from seeds, seedlings, and cuttings to mature, healthy plants.
Pot plants; install, maintain, and measure planters; prepare and plant flowerbeds following blueprints and layouts.
Plant flowers, ground covers, shrubs, and trees throughout campus.
Assist in scheduling seed-sowing timelines to ensure proper bloom periods.
Help select and grow bedding plants using prior-year records to manage costs effectively.
Perform all plant propagation tasks, including proper lighting, ventilation, heating, misting, and growth regulator applications.
Unload and deliver interior plants while taking precautions related to temperature and shipment volume.
Inspect interior plants at various campus locations and perform all necessary maintenance.
Monitor greenhouse crops daily; prune, fertilize, water, and adjust environmental conditions as needed.
Prepare and test soil media for pH and moisture; use peat moss, custom mixes, and prebagged mixes; repot plants as required.
Inspect and maintain flowerbeds daily, including watering, weeding, and soil cultivation.
Prune trees and ornamental shrubs.
Identify pest issues and prescribe appropriate pest control methods (biological, cultural, mechanical, sanitation, or chemical); apply pesticides as needed.
Perform routine preventive maintenance on vehicles (fluids, tires, fuel, lights, etc.).
Maintain and repair hand tools, including sharpening, lubricating, cleaning, and painting.
Assist in maintaining accurate annual records of bedding plant varieties to guide future plant selections.

Benefits

Paid Time Off - Generous vacation, holiday, sick, and military leave
Retirement Contributions - Purdue contributes up to 8% of your annual income
Educational Opportunities - Tuition assistance for you and eligible family members, including the opportunity to earn a degree through Purdue Global.
Comprehensive Insurance - Medical, dental, and vision coverage to keep you and your family healthy
Life Insurance - Financial protection for you and your loved ones

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