Gardener (Motor Vehicle Operator)

Responsibilities

• Operates a variety of gasoline and diesel-powered equipment such as self-propelled mowers, weed whackers, vacuum, leaf blower, garden tractor with wagon and power sweeper
• Determines the quantities of plants, seeds, fertilizer and other materials needed for specific areas
• Selects fungicides, insecticides and herbicides for the control of common plant disease, plant insects and weeds
• Starts new plants in seed beds or cold frames; builds good soil base; places seeds at proper depth; manages moisture, temperature, humidity and ventilation to encourage germination and growth
• Plans regular and recurring seasonal tasks and maintenance schedule
• Coordinates snow removal according to policy
• Responds to emergencies such as inclement weather, major utility failure, floods or other similar emergencies (subject to call back)
• Reproduces plants through cuttings, rooting, grafting and layering processes
• Keeps records of the number and kinds of plants started and kind of fertilizer used

Requirements

• Must possess a current/valid State Driver's License (Selective Placement Factor)
• Must be able to perform the duties of a Gardener (Motor Vehicle Operator) without more than normal supervision, including experience operating gasoline/diesel-powered equipment, snow removal equipment with large PTO attachments, policing lawns before mowing, planning/preparing seasonal tasks, applying chemicals, and maintaining equipment cleanliness
• Must be able to perform tasks requiring heavy physical effort such as frequent lifting and moving of objects up to 80 pounds (fertilizer, grass seed, rock salt, melt); frequent running, walking, standing, bending, stooping, pushing carts and wheelbarrows; occasionally climbing ladders to prune or trim vegetation
• Must work outside for long periods in hot sun, rain, snow and below freezing weather; exposed to dirt, dust, mud and chemical sprays and dusts; must wear protective clothing (gloves, eye protection, dust masks, safety shoes and boots)
• Must be available for emergencies such as inclement weather, major utility failure, floods and other similar emergencies and be subject to call back
• Experience will be evaluated against the job elements: Dexterity and Safety; Interpret Instructions - Specifications (includes blueprint reading); Materials; Technical Practices; Use and Maintain Tools and Equipment; without more than normal supervision
• Experience must be documented with month and year start/end dates; part-time experience credited proportionally; volunteer experience is accepted

Schedule

• Regular work schedule: 6:00 am – 3:30 pm
• During fall, schedule changes to 11:00 pm – 7:00 am to coordinate snow removal and de‑icing efforts for patient and employee arrival