Landscape Technician

PARK DISTRICT OF OAK PARK•Oak Park, IL

7d•$23 - $23•Onsite

About The Position

The Landscape Technician is a Full-Time Position. We offer competitive compensation. Our benefit package includes medical, dental, vision, life insurance, flexible spending account, 457 plan(s), IMRF Pension, tuition reimbursement, vacation, holidays, sick time, and personal days. This position is part of a collective bargaining agreement. Job Purpose: The purpose of the Landscape Technician is to provide high-quality horticulture and landscape management practices for the Park District of Oak Park parks, facilities, and historic properties. This position requires knowledge of common plants and trees grown in Illinois, weed identification, and the ability to operate common landscape equipment. This position also supports sustainable landscape practices. A person must have a team-based attitude, a love for the outdoors, and a strong work ethic. This position reports to the Horticulture Supervisor. The Landscape Technician Worker typically works Monday through Friday from 7:00 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.

Requirements

Certificate of completion in landscape management, horticultural science, or related field from an accredited college or university, Associate Degree in Horticulture, Forestry, or related field, or a combination of work experience & education.
Must be 18 years of age and have a Valid Commercial Illinois Driver’s License (CDL) with Class B air brake endorsement, or attainment within 6 months of employment.
Good driving record and maintain a valid CDL license at all times. This position is part of the pre-employment drug testing and random drug and alcohol testing program.
Knowledge of common plants grown in Illinois, including annuals, perennials, woody plants, trees, and natives.
Understanding of plant requirements, taxonomy, and growing habits, including proper pruning techniques.
Ability to properly identify and diagnose insects, weeds, fungal conditions, and pest-prone areas.
Illinois Pesticide Applicators license, or attainment within 6 months of employment, Certification in advanced Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR), First Aid and Automated External Defibrillator (AED) within 3 months of employment and keep certification current. The District provides this training.
Ability to multitask workload.
Organization and interpersonal skills.
Ability to work on a team.
Planning and problem-solving skills.
Self-motivation and independent work habits.
Physical fitness for hard labor tasks.
Ability to walk, stand, and work at heights for extended periods of time.
Ability to lift 50lbs, over 80lbs with assistance.
Ability to operate heavy and light landscape equipment, tools, and chainsaws.
Proficient in Microsoft Office applications.
Ability to work outdoors year-round in all weather conditions.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s Degree (4 years) or trade school equivalent in Horticulture, Forestry, or related field
ISA certified arborist, or attainment within 6 months of employment
Knowledge of Illinois native plants and their environments
Knowledge of invasive species management and ecological restoration practices.
Experience with GIS.
Familiarity with sustainable landscape management practices, including IPM.
Experience operating large trucks and specialized landscape equipment.
Skilled in basic troubleshooting and maintenance of landscape equipment, tools, and irrigation systems, including identifying operational issues and performing minor adjustments or repairs.
Knowledge of safety and risk management.

Responsibilities

Performs landscape management practices at the Park District’s parks, facilities, historic properties, and natural areas, including pruning, plant installation and removal, mulching, edging, trimming, watering, weed removal, application of fertilizers, pesticides, & herbicides as needed in accordance with established guidelines.
Provides arboricultural care for the district’s trees. Assists with maintaining tree inventory in GIS.
Performs snow removal at the Conservatory and other Park District parks and/or facilities, as needed.
Makes recommendations to the Horticulture Supervisor regarding projects, equipment needs, and work scheduling.
Completes accurate record-keeping and utilizes electronic work order systems to document daily work activities, maintenance needs, and equipment issues.
Fosters a working environment that promotes safe work habits and active participation in the Park District’s risk management program, including adherence to the District’s Safety policies, OSHA safety standards, PPE requirements, and hazard communication procedures.
Maintains a complete understanding of Park District emergency action plans and acts as a leader in the execution of the plans when required.
Drives District Vehicles, operates equipment as required.
Participates in special projects and departmental committees as directed.
Participants in special events, programs, and plant markets at the Conservatory as required.
Provides direction to part-time and seasonal workers on best horticulture practices and on use, safety and maintenance needs of vehicles, small machinery, tools, and other equipment.
Assists with maintenance and upkeep of Conservatory showrooms, production greenhouses, and operations areas, including all interior and exterior landscapes and landscape features (i.e., ponds, irrigation systems, planters, etc.)
Assists volunteers, provides direction and support as required.
Performs the routine maintenance of tools and equipment.
Provides a favorable image of the Park District and Conservatory by answering questions and giving directions.
Performs other tasks as directed.