Horticulturist

Colonial Williamsburg Foundation•Williamsburg, VA

1d•$17 - $25•Onsite

About The Position

This position is a key member of a crew within the Landscape Department responsible for maintaining historic gardens and landscapes to the highest horticultural standards. Assist Lead Horticulturist with the maintenance and management of all specified areas to include the proper cultural practices for all plants, including heirloom, modern varieties, fine gardening, plant conservation, landscape restoration, soil management, and hardscape maintenance.

Requirements

High school diploma/G.E.D., plus four years’ experience in direct garden and landscape maintenance or two-year degree in a horticulture-related field degree plus two years’ experience with direct garden and landscape maintenance. Industry related internship can count towards years of experience.
Experience in landscape and garden maintenance at comparable large institutions where the fine art of gardening is practiced.
Strong knowledge of landscaping tools, equipment, and horticultural practices
Must possess or obtain a Virginia Department of Consumer Services Commercial Pesticide Applicator’s Certificate within 90 days of employment.
Require a valid Virginia driver’s license and an acceptable driving record.
Must possess a valid Commonwealth of Virginia driver’s license and have an acceptable driving record based on The Colonial Williamsburg Foundation’s criteria.
Must be able to provide a 5-year Motor Vehicle Record prior to employment
Must be at least 21 years of age
May not have more than 1 moving violation or at fault accident within 12 months
May not have more than 2 moving violations or at fault accidents within 36 months
May not have any serious motor vehicle violations including but not limited to excessive speeding, reckless driving, DUI/DWI, suspended or revoked license, etc.

Nice To Haves

Experienced gardener having grown and applied proper cultural practices to a variety of plants including flowering annuals, perennials, trees, shrubs, vegetables, and fruit.
Research skills are a plus as is experience making holiday decorations.
Good communication (verbal and written) and public speaking skills.
Ability to read directions and complete reports accurately and in accordance with deadlines.
Must be familiar with Microsoft Office; proficiency in Microsoft Word preferred.
Willing and able to work outside in all weather conditions, work flexible schedule including weekends, evenings, and holidays, must be available for work on emergency basis seven days a week, 24 hours a day.
Must be a fast learner who is ability to demonstrate proficiency with new equipment/tasks.

Responsibilities

Responsible for maintaining the overall health and appearance of the gardens and landscape in specified areas, keeping them pristine and safe. Responsible for planting, pruning, shearing, weeding, and amending the soil. Maintains a variety of hardscapes (shell, gravel, bank-run, etc.) and a variety of plants (trees, shrubs, herbs, vegetables, perennials, and seasonal flowers).
Attend daily briefing meetings to prioritize work and perform all work in a timely and efficient manner to ensure efficient completion of projects and garden-related activities. Work with little direction or supervision and solve problems in a timely manner.
Interact positively and professionally with fellow staff members and Colonial Williamsburg visitors, answering questions and giving directions. Assist with giving talks and tours to garden clubs, garden programs and special guests.
Responsible for following the best management practices for the cultivation of trees, shrubs, ground covers, vines, turf grasses, perennials, annuals and herbs. This includes planting, watering, fertilizing, grooming, pruning and soil management. Remains informed of current techniques and practices in the horticultural field.
Responsible for the identification, control and treatment of weeds, diseases, and pests. Coordinate with IPM Specialist to ensure the safe and proper use of insecticides, fungicides, and herbicides.
Observe OSHA guidelines to assure specified areas are safe for employees and visitors. Ability to operate large equipment such as, but not limited to, tractors, loaders, dump trucks, snowplows and similar machinery.
Guide the work of interns and volunteers in daily gardening activities and provide directions to ensure efficient completion of garden-related activities and special projects. Assure interns and volunteers have the proper tools and equipment and the proper training to use and maintain all tools and equipment safely.
Responsible for tool inventory, maintenance, and upkeep. Proficient in the operation and care of equipment and power tools and can train others on the proper use and safety of assigned equipment.
Perform research on Colonial Williamsburg’s properties, and 18th-century gardens and gardening methods.
Conduct work in accordance with Colonial Williamsburg policies and procedures and in accordance with Virginia state regulations. Practices and maintains safety standards. Performs other related duties as requested by immediate supervisor and carries out or directs the completion of special assignments.
This position is deemed essential personnel (24/7) and will be required to report to work whether the Foundation is open or closed. Will be required to respond to emergencies or other non-routine situations You may be required to report outside your normal schedule to handle unexpected issues such as the removal of snow, ice, or storm damage.