Turf Specialist Downtown

Audubon Institute • New Orleans, LA

3d • Onsite

About The Position

The Turf Specialist position works outdoors in public parks managed by Audubon Nature Institute and Is responsible for the care and maintenance of the lawns and grass In the downtown riverfront parks. Routine job tasks include lawn care such as mowing, string trimming, edging, repairing ruts and uneven areas, aerating the lawns, and applying fertilizer, herbicides, and pesticides. The Turf Specialist will set and monitor their Irrigation systems and manually water as required. The position will follow annual turf maintenance schedules and will diagnose and treat lawn Issues Including weeds, pests, and nutrient needs. The Turf Specialist will properly use, maintain, and secure equipment such as leaf blowers, mowers, string trimmers, and vehicles.

The position works under the supervision of the Grounds Supervisor and may be assigned to work with volunteers, and Interns. The position will support the great needs of the Park Operations department and will support the general success of the parks as assigned Including providing customer service to all park guests, supporting engagement and education, ensuring the park Is clean and free of trash, and supporting event production and recovery.

Requirements

• 2+ years in grounds, horticulture, or related field.
• Ability to identify common pests and weeds.
• Ability to use handheld gardening tools, such as shovels, rakes, and brooms.
• Ability to operate and maintain equipment such as hedgers, weed eaters, and blowers.
• High School Diploma or equivalent
• Strong verbal and interpersonal skills, ability to read and write
• Ability to operate vehicles such as golf carts and gas-powered utility vehicles
• Ability to work outdoors in varied weather conditions
• Ability to engage with a diverse audience
• Affinity for nature and the outdoors

Nice To Haves

• Louisiana Horticultural License
• Bachelors degree
• Computer literacy
• First aid/CPR training

Responsibilities

• Mow lawns following best practices in frequency and height based on the grass type and time of year. String trim and edge grass and lawns. Ensure areas are maintained ahead of scheduled events.
• Apply fertilizers, herbicides, and pesticides following best practices based on the grass type, time of year, and lawn purpose. Treat ant hills.
• Monitor irrigation systems and hand water as necessary.
• Support events including installing protective barriers and event perimeters and turf recovery measures.
• Maintain equipment including cleaning equipment after use, adjusting and sharpening blades, changing filters, checking tire pressure, and changing the oil.
• Adhere to safe and proper use of tools, PPE, equipment, and chemicals.
• Assist in group activities and special projects as needed.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED
• Number of Employees: 501-1,000 employees