JOB TITLE:Horticulturist
DIVISION:Facilities Management
DEPARTMENT:Horticulture
REPORTS TO:Manager Horticulture
CLASSIFICATION:NonExempt
POSITION TYPE:PartTime Medical Benefit Eligible
Hours: Generally Monday Friday 6:00am 2:30pm
SUMMARY:The Horticulturist will assist in the general maintenance and installation of the landscape throughout the Saint Louis Zoo. As an active member of Facilities Management this position will support the Zoos mission and advocate the Zoos core values and three keys.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:The following reflects Managements definition of essential functions for this position but does not restrict additional assigned tasks. Management may assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this position.
- Monitor and maintain landscapes to ensure proper pruning watering fertilizing pest disease and management.
- Perform other horticultural tasks including but not limited to mulching plant and tree installation trimming mowing and leaf removal.
- Manage and remove invasive species.
- Responsible for chemical application to trees shrubs turf and other landscapes as deemed necessary.
- Operate and maintain horticulturerelated equipment and machines.
- Direct traffic to ensure safety of pedestrians operators and work crew.
- Deice and clear snow from walks pathways and parking lots throughout the Zoo during inclement weather.
- May be required to work weekend days to cover watering routines storm damage and snow/ice events
- Lead and direct any students interns or volunteer groups as available.
- Ensure that proper safety guidelines and usage of PPE are followed at all times.
- Know and understand the Zoo employee handbook and adhere to all stated disciplinary actions and personnel policies.
- Work in close collaboration with all Zoo internal departments.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
QUALIFICATIONS:
- High school diploma or equivalent required.
- Horticultural certification or undergraduate degree preferred.
- Equivalent experience may be considered in lieu of a degree or certificate
- Knowledge and experience in general maintenance of turf trees shrubs perennials and ornamental grasses.
- Experience with operating equipment such as riding mowers and skid loaders preferred.
- Basic record keeping.
- Commitment to high standards.
- Good attendance record and work ethic.
- Versatility flexibility and a willingness to work within constantly changing priorities with enthusiasm.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite; especially Outlook Word Excel and PowerPoint.
- Possession or the ability to obtain a Missouri Class E Drivers License is required for residents of Missouri.
- All successful candidates for this position will be required to undergo a criminal background check and a drug test. As this is a safetysensitive role a negative drug test result is mandatory. The drug test screens for five substances including .
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
- Must be able to push pull bend squat stoop and twist many times a day.
- Must be able to safely lift carry and load 50 pounds.
- Physical capacity to endure exposure to inclement weather dust heavy machinery restraint devices and hazardous chemicals. Use of proper PPE may be required.
WORK ENVIRONMENT:
- This position will work primarily outside with some in shop. Significant exposure to weather is possible.