Master Gardener

Lead, oversee and participate in the more complex and difficult work of staff responsible for the planting, care and maintenance of plants and grounds. Design, install, maintain and repair the automatic irrigation system and perform a variety of technical tasks relative to assigned areas of responsibility.

Job descriptions are intended to present a general list of tasks/duties performed by employees within this job classification. Job Descriptions are not intended to reflect all duties performed within the job.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:  Essential functions may include but are not limited to the functions listed below. Must be able to perform the essential functions of the job with or without a reasonable accommodation.

1. Lead, plan, train and review the work of staff responsible for the maintenance and care of the plants.
2. Plan, direct and participate in a variety of nursery and plant maintenance duties including weed identification and abatement, and plant care with respect to trimming, pruning, transplanting, and water assessment.
3. Assist in the design, set-up and planting of new plants and exhibits; clean and maintain existing exhibits.
4. Determine project and daily tasks and the sequence of tasks associated with horticultural maintenance; oversee and participate in the work of gardening crew; follow through on completion of tasks.
5. Train assigned employees in their areas of work including exhibit and collection maintenance, procedures and techniques.
6. Verify the work of assigned employees for accuracy, proper work methods and techniques, and compliance with applicable standards and specifications.
7. Design, install, maintain and repair the irrigation system for the grounds; direct and participate in repairing irrigation pipes and sprinklers as needed.
8. Maintain inventory of a variety of tools and equipment; service and operate equipment used in gardening maintenance and irrigation installation.
9. Respond to public inquiries in a courteous manner; provide information within area of responsibility; resolve complaints in an efficient and timely manner.
10. Ensure adherence to safe work practices and procedures.
11. Maintain plant collection field records.

SUPPLEMENTAL FUNCTIONS:

1. Participate in pest control operations as needed.
2. Maintain planted areas and surrounding areas as needed.
3. Perform related duties and responsibilities as required.

Education and experience directly related to the minimum requirements below may be interchangeable on a year for year basis.

High school diploma or GED supplemented by thirty (30) credit hours of vocational or college-level coursework in plant maintenance, botany, or horticulture; and 

Three (3) years' experience in horticulture grounds maintenance and irrigation system repair.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:  

Possession of a valid New Mexico Driver's License or the ability to obtain within ninety (90) days from date of hire.  

Possession of a City Operator's Permit (COP) within six (6) months from date of hire.

Possession of a New Mexico Public Pesticide Applicator License Categories 3A and 3B within six (6) months from date of hire.

Environmental:
Field environment; exposure to noise, dust, grease, smoke, fumes, gases, inclement weather conditions; work in or with water; work underground.

Physical:
Essential and supplemental functions may require maintaining physical condition necessary for heavy, moderate or light lifting; bending, stooping, kneeling, crawling; walking or standing for prolonged periods.