Housing Gardening Specialist

California State University, Sacramento•Sacramento, CA

2d•$3,736 - $5,232•Onsite

About The Position

Under general supervision of the Manager, Grounds & Landscape Services, the Housing Gardening Specialist performs a combination of specialized work in an assigned area which encompasses irrigation repair and maintenance work, pest and weed control, tree maintenance, athletic turf maintenance, and maintenance of gardening power equipment. The incumbent will also make recommendations for the planning and development of special planting areas including soil amendments, irrigation, and plant selection.

Requirements

Thorough knowledge of the methods, plants, tools, and equipment used in planting, cultivating, and caring for flowers, shrubs, lawns, and trees.
General knowledge of soil composition and structure, soil pH factors, compatibility between soil and plants, different plant mixes, and erosion control.
Ability to identify, diagnose, and treat plant diseases and correct plant nutrient deficiencies.
Ability to prepare freehand sketches and make recommendations for landscaping improvements.
Ability to read and write at a level appropriate to the duties of the position.
Ability to follow oral and written instructions.
Two years of experience in the care and maintenance of landscaped areas or general grounds.
One year of experience in either the maintenance, repair, or modification of irrigation systems, specialized pest and/or spray control work, or cultivation and care of nursery plants.
Possession of the appropriate California Department of Pesticide Regulation license to perform pest control work.
Experience performing specialized pest and/or spray control work (e.g., weeds, fungi).
Knowledge of installation and programming of automatic irrigation controllers.
Thorough knowledge of athletic and general turf maintenance.
Ability to perform standard and specialized pruning of trees, shrubs, and other plants.
Ability to perform maintenance, repair, or modification of irrigation systems.
Ability to operate and perform maintenance on small power-operated mowers and other gardening power equipment.
Effective communication skills.
Effective interpersonal skills.
Excellent customer service skills.
Ability to work independently as well as collaboratively in a diverse environment.
Commitment to maintaining a welcoming and inclusive work environment with diverse colleagues and constituents including faculty, students, staff, and members of the community.
Ability to use computerized maintenance systems.
Must have Current Qualified Applicators Certificate (QAC) for pest and weed control related to landscape maintenance.
Possession of a valid driver's license and maintenance of a good driving record.
Ability to frequently move (lift/carry) up to 50 pounds of equipment/supplies in a safe manner.

Nice To Haves

Ability to provide lead work direction to students, Groundsworkers, or individuals in other grounds classifications.
Ability to provide advice and assistance to others regarding proper care of flowers and ornamental plants, pruning, athletic field maintenance, and other technical skills.
Experience establishing and maintaining preventative maintenance programs using computerized systems.
Experience in swimming pool maintenance.

Responsibilities

Performs specialized work in an assigned area including irrigation repair and maintenance, pest and weed control, tree maintenance, athletic turf maintenance, and maintenance of gardening power equipment.
Makes recommendations for the planning and development of special planting areas, including soil amendments, irrigation, and plant selection.