LANDSCAPE SPECIALIST

Duke Careers • Durham, NC

13d • $18 - $23

About The Position

Perform a variety of technical and skilled duties involved in maintaining Duke University landscape and grounds in accordance with established schedules and instructions. Coordinate and participate in the proper care of Duke University landscape and grounds to include trimming, edging, weeding, pruning of ornamental shrubs and plantings, application of herbicides, pesticides and fungicides, and application of seeds, bulbs, plants, mulch and fertilizers as directed. Participate in the removal of weeds, litter, and debris from Duke University landscapes. Calculate proper amounts of herbicides, pesticides, fertilizers, and topsoil for landscape applications; determine proper ratios, mixtures and quantities of materials required for landscape work. Identify common plant diseases and pests and make recommendations for appropriate action. Have a working knowledge of landscape irrigation systems and be able to perform basic system repairs. Attend herbicide, turf management, irrigation maintenance and/or pest control classes as directed to stay abreast and knowledgeable in landscape techniques. Assist in cleanup and repair during inclement weather events which may require working extended hours during these events. The above statements describe the general nature and level of work being performed by individuals assigned to this classification. This is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities and duties required of personnel so classified.

Requirements

• Must be able to understand and follow complex oral and written instructions and meet deadlines
• Requires accurate use and precise perception and judgement for: safe use of measuring devices; operation of machinery and equipment; operation of motor vehicles; and the general observation of surroundings and activities for the safety of individuals, staff and the general public
• Ability to work independently or in a team setting based on the assigned task
• Must possess strong leadership, planning, organizational, problem-solving and communication skills.
• Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions is required.
• Ability to safely maneuver material and/or equipment weighing 50 pounds or more.
• Availability and ability to perform snow/ice removal.
• Knowledge of landscape maintenance requirements based on type of landscape, weather conditions, and seasonal tasks.
• Ability to identify and report common plant pests and diseases.
• Knowledge of proper pruning techniques
• Work requires the ability to understand and follow instructions generally acquired through a high school education.
• North Carolina pesticide applicators license or ability to obtain within six months of hire is required.
• North Carolina driver's license is required
• Work generally requires two years of experience in maintaining grounds and landscape to acquire specialized knowledge of irrigation systems, turf management, sports fields, horticulture and/or landscape design.

Nice To Haves

• Associates degree in Horticulture, Turf Management or related course of study is strongly preferred.

Responsibilities

• Care for Duke University landscape and grounds to include trimming, edging, weeding, pruning of ornamental shrubs and plantings, application of herbicides, pesticides and fungicides, and application of seeds, bulbs, plants, mulch and fertilizers as directed.
• Participate in the removal of weeds, litter, and debris from Duke University landscapes.
• Calculate proper amounts of herbicides, pesticides, fertilizers, and topsoil for landscape applications; determine proper ratios, mixtures and quantities of materials required for landscape work.
• Identify common plant diseases and pests and make recommendations for appropriate action.
• Have a working knowledge of landscape irrigation systems and be able to perform basic system repairs.
• Attend herbicide, turf management, irrigation maintenance and/or pest control classes as directed to stay abreast and knowledgeable in landscape techniques.
• Assist in cleanup and repair during inclement weather events which may require working extended hours during these events.

Benefits

• Duke provides comprehensive and competitive medical and dental care programs, generous retirement benefits, and a wide array of family- friendly and cultural programs to eligible team members. Learn more at: https://hr.duke.edu/benefits/

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED
• Number of Employees: 5,001-10,000 employees