Assistant Landscape Horticulturist

• Tasks include: planting pruning applying soil amendments water management debris removal weed control mulching and properly applying herbicides/pesticides as needed.
• Proficiency in operating various gardening/landscape equipment such as hand tools string trimmers mowers blowers and backpack sprayers.
• Uses current best practices responsible stewardship and environmental stewardship when performing the tasks outlined above.
• Familiarity with many different plants and their cultural needs including annuals perennials shrubs and trees.
• Works independently and with minimum supervision however certain tasks require individual to work closely with other horticulture staff in a team setting.
• Behaves and communicates in a manner that promotes and fosters a culture of teamwork and cooperation within the Horticulture department and throughout the Estate with co-workers management and volunteers.
• Conducts all work in accordance with the Mount Vernon Ladies Associations procedures and guidelines.
• Interacts positively with visitors answering questions and giving directions.
• Maintains weekly records of work activities for monthly reports.
• Practices and maintains safety standards and procedures in all work areas.
• Performs other related duties as requested by the immediate supervisor and carries out the completion of special assignments.
• This position is classified as essential and the incumbent must be able to participate in ice and snow removal as well as storm damage clean-up as needed.

• A minimum of two years of hands-on relevant horticultural work experience is required with experience at public gardens a plus.
• Must communicate effectively and enjoy and feel comfortable interacting with visitors and answering questions.
• Ability to perform strenuous work in a variety of weather conditions including extreme high and low temperatures.
• Work requires frequent walking standing bending stooping squatting kneeling and the ability to navigate uneven terrain.
• The incumbent will frequently handle objects weighing up to 30 pounds (occasionally 50 pounds) unassisted. On a regular basis drag lift and carry heavy debris and watering hoses and load or unload heavy items from powered and hand-operated carts.
• Virginia pesticide technician or applicators certification a plus or must obtain within 6 months of start date.
• Must be available to work occasional evenings weekends and holidays.
• Valid drivers license.

• 403(b) Retirement plan with employer matching
• Employee recognition at 5 years of service
• Monthly employee events
• Employee referral program
• Flexible work schedule
• On-site Library
• Discount on Public Event Tickets
• Discount in the Mount Vernon Shops
• Discount at the Mount Vernon Inn and Food Court Pavilion
• Free Parking

Required Experience:

Junior IC