Park Horticulturist - Denver Parks and Recreation

City and County of Denver • Denver, CO

385d • $47,341 - $71,011

About The Position

The Park Horticulturist position at Denver Parks and Recreation involves the cultivation, restoration, and management of various park landscapes and gardens. This role is essential for enhancing the beauty of Denver's parks and natural areas, providing an opportunity for a dedicated horticultural professional to contribute to the community while working in a diverse and inclusive environment.

Requirements

• Graduation from high school or possession of a GED, HiSET, or TASC Certificate.
• Three years of experience in the cultivation and care of a wide variety of ornamental/native plants or horticultural/ecological restoration.
• Requires a valid Driver's License at the time of application.
• Requires Certification in Pesticide Application by the State of Colorado by completion of probationary period.

Nice To Haves

• Annual and perennial design and maintenance experience.
• Knowledge of a wide range of flower and shrub varieties.
• Experience performing lead work or guiding others.
• An eye for creativity and innovation.
• Strong collaboration and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Perform cultivation, restoration, management, and general maintenance of flower gardens, lawns, shrubs, trees, ground covers, natural areas, and wildlife habitats.
• Work outdoors alongside team members and guide less seasoned workers in horticultural best practices.
• Prepare working sketches of flower beds or water conserving landscapes.
• Prepare, fertilize, amend, or condition soils for different types of plants or plant communities.
• Participate in the planning and development of planting programs and natural open space restoration projects.
• Make recommendations for the number and types of plants to be grown in assigned locations.
• Perform weed management and determine appropriate growing conditions for plants.
• Prepare reports and maintain records of plant maintenance and restoration activities.
• Ensure safe handling and proper utilization of tools and equipment.
• Safely mix, prepare, and apply chemicals as needed.
• Develop and modify work plans to align with innovative approaches and best practices.
• Perform related park maintenance tasks such as trash collection and snow removal operations.

Benefits

• A guaranteed life-long monthly pension, once vested after 5 years of service.
• 457B Retirement Plan.
• 140 hours of PTO earned within the first year + 11 paid holidays, 1 personal holiday, and 1 volunteer day per year.
• Competitive medical, dental, and vision plans effective within 1 month of start date.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Industry: Executive, Legislative, and Other General Government Support
• Education Level: High school or GED
• Number of Employees: 10,001+ employees