ELLEN TROUT ZOO - Zoo Horticulturist

DESCRIPTION

The Horticulturist oversees all plant materials care at the Ellen Trout Zoo, including routine tasks, grounds maintenance, tree related work of assigned area, and developing new areas when necessary.

QUALIFICATIONS

• High school diploma or GED required.
• At least 5 years of demonstrated progressive professional horticulture and gardening experience preferred.
• Additional horticultural or agricultural licenses (ex: Certified Horticulturist, Landscape Industry Certified Technician, etc.), degrees, or certifications preferred.
• Must possess a valid Driver's License Class C at time of placement.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

• Knowledge of and experience with standard practices, materials, methods, tools, and equipment used in planting, transplanting, cultivating and caring for native and landscape plant material, tropical plantscapes, trees, plants, flowers, shrubs, and lawns.
• Knowledge of plant diseases and symptoms.
• Knowledge of and experience with irrigation and watering systems preferred.
• Skills to safely use hand and power tools and equipment.
• Skills in effective communication with the public, colleagues, and management.
• Ability to perform physical labor and to work outdoors in various weather conditions.

MAJOR DUTIES

• Evaluate and plan landscape and horticulture needs. This includes specialty zone area plant selections, landscape and gardening practices
• Maintain many different types of flowers, shrubs, trees, turf and other plants. This will include inspecting for pests, disease and other deteriorating agents
• Interact with the public regarding general horticulture questions
• Troubleshoots problems such as pathway obstructions, irrigation breaks, plant disease concerns, visitor safety or exhibit substrate issues
• Use gas-powered & battery-powered gardening equipment and a variety of other hand tools
• Keep equipment clean and in proper working condition through preventative maintenance and by making minor repairs
• Operate motorized vehicles, pickup trucks, front-end loaders, tractors, skid steer, lifts, and other equipment necessary for performance of essential duties

Visit our website www.cityoflufkin.com or contact the Human Resources Department at Lufkin City Hall, 300 E. Shepherd Ave., Suite 226, Lufkin, TX 75901, Phone 936-633-0228.