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

• Associate’s or bachelor’s degree in Horticulture, Landscape Management, or related field preferred (or equivalent experience).
• 1–3 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 driver’s 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 Driver’s 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 Bland’s policies and procedures