Landscape Specialist - Facilities Services - UTK

University of Tennessee•Knoxville, TN

2d•Onsite

About The Position

This role requires strong horticulture knowledge and hands‑on experience to lead and execute landscape renovation projects and maintain long-term landscape beds. The position is responsible for scheduling and prioritizing daily tasks and will oversee event setup and teardown activities to help protect campus turf and landscape areas.

Requirements

Education : High School Diploma or GED
Experience: 4 years of combined work experience/education within the landscape industry.
Ability to operate skid steer loaders, tractors, trenchers and other common landscape equipment.
Ability to operate small hand-held landscaping equipment.
Knowledge of commonly used plants and trees for our region.
Knowledge of regional horticulture practices.
Ability to read and understand landscape plans.
Ability to calibrate and clean/sterilize chemical application equipment.
Knowledge of chemicals commonly used within the landscape industry.
Knowledge of how to apply chemicals safely.
Must have good communication, listening, and problem solving skills.
Valid Driver’s license

Responsibilities

Manage landscape and hard‑scape project planning and job sites.
Read, interpret, and apply landscape plans.
Perform site preparation, site layout, and plant and material purchasing.
Execute proper horticultural practices for plant and tree installation.
Install and maintain seasonal flower beds.
Design and implement rotation plans to refresh seasonal interest in all designated color bed locations.
Monitor soil health and conditions; make corrective adjustments as needed.
Perform manual and chemical weed and pest control, deadheading, pruning, and water management.
Apply chemicals in landscape and hard‑scape areas, including herbicides, fungicides, insecticides, and fertilizers.
Calibrate, clean, and sterilize spray or push units before and after applications.
Conduct soil sampling and add amendments to resolve soil issues.
Manage and monitor event setup and teardown activities.
Coordinate with vendors and event organizers to ensure proper setup and protection of landscape areas.
Serve as point of contact to resolve event‑related issues impacting Facilities Services.
Perform additional duties as assigned.
Serve as a crew lead when the foreman is absent.
Train landscape services team members on proper horticultural maintenance practices.