Horticulturist

City of Charlotte

5d•$57,726 - $82,982•Onsite

About The Position

In this dynamic role, the Horticulturalist will oversee three key program areas across multiple workgroups within the Landscape Management Division of General Services. The role involves applying expertise in landscape design to manage the city's median renovation program. As the designated Bee City Ambassador, the incumbent will ensure the city’s compliance with the national program and oversee the care of existing pollinator gardens. Additionally, the role includes contributing to environmental education programming to help engage the community. This position may require occasional evening and weekend work.

Requirements

Knowledge of Landscape Architecture and Design: Comprehensive understanding of landscape planning, design principles, and sustainable practices, including pollinator-friendly landscaping.
Expertise in Horticulture and Plant Care: In-depth knowledge of plant species, horticultural techniques, and soil management, particularly related to urban landscapes and pollinator gardens.
Project Management Skills: Proven ability to manage and oversee multiple landscape renovation projects simultaneously, from planning and design to implementation and maintenance, ensuring timely and within-budget completion.
Contract and Budget Management: Strong ability to review, negotiate, and manage landscape contracts, monitor budgets, and ensure cost-effective resource allocation and expenditure tracking.
Bee City Certification Knowledge: In-depth understanding of Bee City USA certification requirements and ability to ensure program compliance, promoting environmental stewardship in urban settings.
Communication Skills: Excellent verbal and written communication abilities, with experience educating and engaging staff, the public, and stakeholders on landscaping, pollinators, and environmental issues.
Leadership: Proven leadership skills with the ability to guide and mentor landscape staff, resolve conflicts, and ensure high standards of performance in both staff and contractors.
Collaboration and Relationship Building: Ability to collaborate effectively with various stakeholders, including government agencies, community organizations, and businesses, to achieve program goals.
Technical Proficiency: Proficient in landscape design software (prefer entry level design abilities in Adobe Creative Suite and/or AutoCAD drafting software), and Microsoft Office Suite; able to create project plans, specifications, and reports.
Problem-Solving and Critical Thinking: Strong analytical and problem-solving skills to address challenges in landscape projects, contractor performance, or maintenance issues and implement effective solutions.
Attention to Detail and Record Keeping: High attention to detail with the ability to maintain accurate records, including plant inspections, contractor performance, invoices, and project documentation.
Environmental Awareness: Deep understanding of sustainable landscaping practices, pollinator conservation, and the environmental impacts of urban green spaces.
Bachelor’s degree in Horticulture, Botany, Biology, Forestry, Landscape Architecture, Plant Science, or a related field, with at least one year of relevant work experience; OR an Associate’s degree in Horticulture, Arboriculture, Forestry, or a related field, with two years of relevant experience; OR a High School diploma or equivalent, with five years of experience in a related field, or an equivalent combination of education, work experience, and relevant industry certifications

Nice To Haves

N.C. Licensed Landscape Contractor or ability to obtain within one (1) year of hire
ISA Certified Arborist or ability to obtain within one (1) year of hire
NC Pesticide applicators license with Turf & Ornamentals, Right-of-Way, and Aquatics categories or ability to obtain within one (1) year of hire

Responsibilities

Oversee and manage the median and city properties/buildings renovation program, including project planning, design development, budget, and execution.
Develop and prepare landscape construction specifications; review plans and contracts, and manage documentation for landscape-related work, including plant installation contracts.
Lead and manage the Bee City certification program for the City of Charlotte, ensuring full compliance with program requirements.
Supervise the maintenance and care of existing pollinator gardens located on city property, ensuring optimal health and growth.
Designs and implements a citywide flower planting and maintenance program.
Provide leadership and guidance to landscape staff on projects, contractor performance, and horticultural best practices, ensuring high-quality results.
Conduct plant inspections, document communications, and maintain detailed records of contractor performance, including invoices and work documentation.
Educate staff and the public on the importance of pollinators and sustainable landscaping practices to promote environmental awareness.
Collaborate effectively with city and state agencies, community organizations, homeowner groups, and private businesses to support landscaping and pollinator initiatives.
Manage the plant holding nursery, ensuring proper care and storage of plants for future landscaping projects.
Perform other related duties as required to support landscape and environmental initiatives.