GARDENER (GS)

Full Job Description

DIVISION: GREENSPACE
LOCATION: 1801 Memorial Dr, Houston, TX 77007
WORKDAYS & HOURS: MON-FRI; 6:30 AM TO 3:30 PM*
*Subject to change

DESCRIPTION OF DUTIES/ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
The Houston Parks and Recreation Department is dedicated to building a sustainable community and enhancing the quality of urban life by providing safe well-maintained parks and offering affordable programming for our community. To achieve this mission, HPARD is seeking a Gardener to join its Greenspace team. The potential candidate will play a key role in the following duties:

• Perform horticultural duties such as planting, pruning, fertilization and other tasks needed for general care and maintenance of planting areas.
• May assist in the production of horticulture crops at the city greenhouse.
• Review planting plans and provide updates on plant and insect problems.
• Keep records on inventory, scheduling and routine maintenance in relation to plantings.
• Maintain and clean equipment and tools. Perform other duties as requested.
• Requires driving to perform duties.

WORKING CONDITIONS
The position involves considerable physical exertion, such as regular climbing of ladders, lifting of heavy objects (up to 80 pounds) on a highly frequent basis and/or assuming awkward positions for long periods of time. There are routine exposures to significant levels of heat, cold, moisture and air pollution. The position may involve periodic exposure to chemical substances and physical trauma of a minor nature such as cuts, bruises and minor burns.

Requirements

EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENTS
Basic knowledge of grammar, spelling, punctuation and simple mathematical functions like percentages, ratios, etc. as might normally be acquired through attainment of a high school diploma or a GED.

EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS
Two years of experience in a horticultural field such as landscape installation, grounds maintenance, plant production or pest control are required.

LICENSE REQUIREMENTS
Must have a valid driver's license and comply with the City of Houston's policy on driving (AP 2-2).

Qualifications

Applicants with additional training in horticultural skills and greenhouse maintenance are preferred.

**Preference shall be given to eligible veteran applicants provided such persons possess the qualifications necessary for competent discharge of the duties involved in the position applied for, such persons are among the most qualified candidates for the position, and all other factors in accordance with Executive Order 1-6.**

Additional Information

SELECTION/SKILLS TESTS REQUIRED
The selection process will involve application review and/or interview.

SAFETY IMPACT POSITION YES
If yes, this position is subject to random drug testing and if a promotional position, candidate must pass an assignment drug test.

SALARY INFORMATION
Factors used in determining the salary offered include the candidate's qualifications as well as the pay rates of other employees in this classification.
APPLICATION PROCEDURES