Commercial Grounds Maintenance Assistant Horticulturist

Job Purpose
The Assistant Horticulturist supports the planning care and maintenance of plant material across landscapes gardens and specialty projects. This role provides hands-on horticultural care assists with seasonal plantings and ensures that the highest standards of health safety and aesthetics are maintained in all areas of responsibility.

Key Responsibilities

Plant Care & Maintenance

• Assist with the selection planting pruning and care of trees shrubs perennials and annuals.
• Monitor plant health and identify pests diseases and nutrient deficiencies.
• Apply Integrated Pest Management (IPM) practices fertilizers and soil amendments as directed.
• Maintain irrigation systems ensuring proper watering schedules and equipment upkeep.

Seasonal Work & Enhancements

• Support seasonal planting displays and rotational flower installations.
• Assist with landscape enhancements including bed preparation mulching and soil conditioning.
• Participate in the design and layout of plantings working under direction from the Horticulturist or Production Manager.

Field Operations & Safety

• Operate and maintain horticultural equipment and tools.
• Follow safety protocols environmental best practices and company standards always.
• Assist with snow removal storm cleanup or other seasonal duties as required.

Collaboration & Development

• Work closely with production managers account managers and production teams to ensure client satisfaction.
• Provide support to field crews when needed.
• Continue developing technical knowledge and skills through training and mentorship.

Qualifications

• Associates or bachelors degree in Horticulture Landscape Management or related field preferred (or equivalent experience).
• 13 years of hands-on horticultural or landscape experience.
• Knowledge of plant identification care techniques and sustainable landscape practices.
• Ability to safely operate small equipment tools and vehicles (valid drivers license required).
• Strong attention to detail work ethic and ability to work outdoors in varying conditions.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift 50 lbs. and perform physical tasks such as bending kneeling and standing for extended periods.
• Comfortable working in outdoor environments year-round.

Why Join Us
This role offers a unique opportunity to grow your horticultural knowledge while working on diverse high-quality landscapes. The Assistant Horticulturist role is designed as a stepping stone toward leadership within horticulture estate gardening and commercial landscape management

Requirements:

*Ability to lift up to 50 pounds on a routine basis

*Ability to bend and stoop on a continual basis

*Ability to work outside in all weather conditions

*Ability to work around bees poison ivy pollen thorns and other environmental risks

*Must wear work boots Bland landscaping uniform and present yourself in a clean and polite manner

*Must practice safety with chemicals and equipment

*Must wear company-provided eye and ear protection as required

*Must have valid NC Drivers license and maintain a good driving record (CDL preferred)

*Must be willing to obtain NC Pesticide applicators license

*Must have good communication skills and ability to motivate others

*Must comply with Blands policies and procedures

Disclaimer

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities duties and skills required of personnel so classified. All personnel may be required to perform duties outside of their normal responsibilities from time to time as needed.