Landscape Specialist - Facilities Services - UTK

Responsibilities

• Manage landscape and hard-scape project planning and job sites.
• Read, interpret, and apply landscape plans.
• Perform site preparation, site layout, and plant and material purchasing.
• Execute proper horticultural practices for plant and tree installation.
• Install and maintain seasonal flower beds.
• Design and implement rotation plans to refresh seasonal interest in all designated color bed locations.
• Maintain soil health and conditions; make corrective adjustments as needed.
• Perform manual and chemical weed and pest control, deadheading, pruning, and water management.
• Apply chemicals in landscape and hard-scape areas, including herbicides, fungicides, insecticides, and fertilizers.
• Calibrate, clean, and sterilize spray or push units before and after applications.
• Conduct soil sampling and add amendments to resolve soil issues.
• Manage and monitor event setup and teardown activities.
• Cooky with vendors and event organizers to ensure proper setup and protection of landscape areas.
• Serve as point of contact to resolve event-related issues impacting Facilities Services.
• Perform additional duties as assigned.
• Train landscape services team members on proper horticultural maintenance practices.

Qualifications

• Education: High School Diploma or GED.
• Experience: 4 years of combined work experience/education within the landscape industry.
• Knowledge, Skills, Abilities:
• Ability to operate skid steer loaders, tractors, trenchers and other common landscape equipment.
• Ability to operate small hand-held landscaping equipment.
• Knowledge of commonly used plants and trees for our region.
• Knowledge of regional horticulture practices.
• Ability to read and understand landscape plans.
• Ability to calibrate and clean/sterilize chemical application equipment.
• Knowledge of chemicals commonly used within the landscape industry.
• Knowledge of how to apply chemicals safely.
• Good communication, listening, and problem solving skills.

About the Role

The role requires strong horticulture knowledge and hands-on experience to lead and execute landscape renovation projects and maintain long-term landscape beds. The position is responsible for scheduling and prioritizing daily tasks and will oversee event setup and teardown activities to help protect campus turf and landscape areas.