Lead Gardener - Buildings & Grounds Department (2026-27)

Oakland Unified School District•Oakland, CA

13d•Onsite

About The Position

Under general supervision, oversee and perform skilled landscaping, gardening work and grounds maintenance. Provide work direction, and guidance to garden personnel.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent.
Six years experience in general garden maintenance.
Valid California Driver’s License.
Employment eligibility will include fingerprints, tuberculosis and/or other employment clearance.
Knowledge of approved methods of planting, propagating and caring for hedges, trees, shrubs, lawn, and flowers.
Knowledge of appropriate gardening materials, hand tools, and power equipment in cultivating and caring for lawns and landscaping.
Knowledge of applicable laws, codes, regulations, policies, and procedures governing workscope.
Knowledge of Safety and Health Protection on the Job (OSHA Regulations).
Knowledge of safe working methods and procedures.
Knowledge of technical aspects of field of specialty.
Ability to recognize common plant diseases and insect pests and apply approved methods and materials in control and eradication.
Ability to estimate labor, time, and material accurately.
Ability to interpret, apply, and explain rules, regulations, policies, and procedures governing workscope.
Ability to communicate effectively in English orally and in writing.
Ability to understand and follow oral and written instructions.
Ability to meet schedules and timelines.
Ability to maintain routine records.
Ability to complete work independently with minimal supervision.
Ability to establish and maintain cooperative working relationships.
Ability to provide work direction and guidance to garden personnel.
Ability to observe all legal and District defensive driving practices.

Responsibilities

Oversee planting, cultivation, trimming, pruning, watering, fertilizing, spraying, and propagation of ornamental plants, shrubs, hedges, trees, and flowers.
Prepare soil and seeds, fertilize, water, cut, trim and care for lawns using hand and power mowers and equipment.
Use appropriate treatment in keeping assigned areas free from pests and plant diseases.
Determine the need and replace old and diseased trees, plants and shrubs.
Rake leaves, hoe weeds, sweep walks, pick up papers, and perform general grounds maintenance work.
Operate and repair lawn sprinkler systems.
Operate irrigation time clocks.
Maintain hoses, supplies, tools and equipment in proper condition and repair.
Drive a District vehicle towing a self-service trailer.
Complete work assignments from plans, written orders, and oral instructions.
Work with all District employees, architecture, engineering employees, and outside contractors.
Provide work direction and guidance of garden personnel.
Perform related duties as assigned.