Horticultural Specialist

Recognized as one of the most beautiful college campuses in the U.S., the University of Virginia is seeking a Horticultural Specialist who will provide expertise in the installation and maintenance of intensely planted garden demonstration areas throughout UVA Grounds. This role is responsible for fostering a sustainable and environmentally friendly approach towards maintaining horticultural beauty and health, applying deep knowledge of proper techniques, utilizing integrated pest management, and maintaining accurate records of efforts. Through collaborative partnerships, the Horticultural Specialist will participate in the ongoing development, renovation, and construction of displays.

To be successful, the incumbent must possess considerable knowledge of horticulture principles and the practices applicable to maintaining formal gardens. This should include extensive knowledge of soil and plant health, identification and care of ground covers, bulbs, annuals, perennials and trees and shrub. Working knowledge of the principles and methods of garden construction, as well as the ability to operate large and small equipment is necessary. The Horticultural Specialist must be able to use judgment and initiative while working independently to successfully complete work assignments with minimal of supervision. This role requires strong communication skills and the ability to foster positive interactions with departmental staff in addition to students, faculty and staff, and the visiting public.

Job Description/Key Responsibilities:

• Apply subject matter expertise of a wide range of plant species and current standards to properly plan, install, and maintain horticultural displays and gardens.
  
• Perform a daily maintenance and cleaning routine to remove weeds, debris and litter from demonstration areas. This includes keeping walkways clear and ensuring hardscapes are in good order to promote both beauty and the safety of students, staff, and visitors. Snow removal, leaf removal, and storm damage clean up are also within the realm of garden maintenance.
  
• Protect all plant material within the assigned garden from the damaging effects of pest and disease, monitoring on a set schedule to detect early signs of damage, and implementing interventions including practicing Integrated Pest Management.
  
• Properly install all new herbaceous and woody plant material, performing tasks including but not limited to choosing the correct mulch and applying it in the proper fashion, irrigating the collection and monitoring soil moisture, pruning, and fertilizer application.
  
• Maintain up to date records, identifying key plants and key plant pest within the assigned area and treatments that are applied.
  
• Provide hands-on training and enthusiastic leadership to Grounds Workers tasked with supporting the maintenance efforts in the assigned area.
  
• Provide interpretation of the Formal Gardens, assisting with guided tours and other events as needed.
  

Required Qualifications:

• Education: High School diploma or equivalent
  
• Experience: 5 years of experience caring for and or installation of intensely designed gardens with responsibilities equivalent to the expectations of this position. Horticulture degree can substitute for 3 years of the required experience.
  
• Licenses/Certifications: Valid Driver’s License with zero or positive points balance and at least 2 years of driving experience. Virginia pesticide applicators license must be obtained within 9 months of hire date.
  

This is an non-exempt, overtime-eligible, benefit ed position with paid vacation and holidays. Employees benefits package highlights include:

• 22 days of paid time off, increasing with service; 13+ paid holidays each year, in addition to paid time off; Parental and Community Service Leave
  
• Health plan with options to meet healthcare and financial needs
  
• Retirement through the Virginia Retirement System
  
• Employee wellness program featuring activities to earn up to $500/year
  

Anticipated Hiring Range: $20 - $24 per hour depending on qualifications and experience.

Working conditions and physical demands:

This position is exposed to varying temperatures due to outside work and to noise from working around and with machinery. Employees are potentially exposed to contaminants and chemicals due to the use of fuel and landscape fertilizers, etc. Landscape & Grounds Workers are also required to stand, walk, and lift above and below the waist various weights which may include different landscape equipment and materials. The use of both hands and a repetitive motion will be required while pruning, driving, weeding, and pushing lawnmowers.

To Apply:

Please apply online and search for R0074469. Internal applicants must apply through their UVA Workday profile by searching ‘Find Jobs.’ Complete an application online with the following documents:

• Resume/work history

Upload all materials into the resume submission field, multiple documents can be submitted into this one field. Alternatively, merge all documents into one PDF for submission. Applications that do not contain all required documents will not receive full consideration.

References will be completed via UVA’s standardized process Skill Survey. A total of five references will be requested via SkillSurvey during the final phase of the interview process. A minimum of three references is required.

This position will remain open until filled. Questions regarding the application process should be directed to Jessica Speth, js9rk@virginia.edu.

The University of Virginia is an equal opportunity employer. All interested persons are encouraged to apply, including veterans and individuals with disabilities. Click here to read more about UVA’s commitment to non-discrimination and equal opportunity employment.