Horticulturist (Urban Forestry)

Under direction, is responsible for scheduling and administering programs in the field of horticulture, floriculture, arboriculture, and agronomy. Working conditions are primarily outside with frequent exposure to temperature extremes. Exercises functional supervision over assigned staff who are responsible for the coordination of tree planting and pruning activities. 

Work Location
5800 Historic Old Highway 90

Work Hours
6:30 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.; Tuesday - Saturday. Shifts are subject to change to accommodate seasonal adjustments, evening coverage, rotating weekends, and holiday shiftwork, as dictated by business needs.

• Directs care and maintenance of arboricultural, gardening and horticultural operations at assigned City Department through on-site inspections and evaluations. 
• Assists in the preparation of preliminary horticultural budget and budget for assigned areas, and monitors expenditures against budget allotments.
• Fertilizes turf, flowers, and trees (includes extensive use of chemicals) and monitors area for pests and disease; includes occasionally lifting and carrying supplies weighing up to 50 pounds.
• Speaks to garden clubs, schools, etc.
• Addresses members of the general public to answer questions, concerns, etc.
• Prepares schedules and programs for development and progressive maintenance of trees.
• Schedules the planting of trees, shrubs, and annual and perennial flowers for use on City properties.
• Makes recommendations for programs providing pesticide consultation.
• Responsible for tree nursery maintenance and care.
• May supervise, train and evaluate assigned staff.
• Performs related duties and fulfills responsibilities as required

• Bachelor's Degree from an accredited college or university.
• One (1) year of experience in horticulture or related field.
• Must be licensed through the Texas Department of Agriculture or Structural Pest Control Service as a pesticide applicator within six (6)  months of hire.
• Valid Class 'C' Texas Driver's License.

• Certified Arborist highly desirable.
• Two (2) years of experience with large scale tree and palm maintenance.
• Experience with ArcMap GIS.
• Experience with personal computer and software.
• Knowledge of Central and South Texas trees.
• Bilingual in speaking English and Spanish.

• If selected for this position, official transcripts, diplomas, certifications and licenses must be submitted at the time of processing.  Unofficial transcripts and copies of other relevant documents may be attached to the application for consideration in advance.
• Please be advised that if selected for this position, information regarding employment history as it relates to the qualifications of the position will be needed for employment verification. Applicants claiming military service to meet the experience requirement for this position may attach a DD214 to the application. 
• Unless otherwise stated, applicants are permitted to substitute two years of related full-time experience for one year of higher education or one year of related higher education for two years of experience in order to meet the minimum requirements of the job. One year of full-time experience is defined as 30 or more hours worked per week for 12 months.  One year of higher education is defined as 30 credit hours completed at an accredited college or university.
• Applicants selected for employment with the City of San Antonio in this position must receive satisfactory results from pre-employment drug testing and background checks.  If required for the position, a physical, motor vehicle record evaluation, and additional background checks may be conducted.

• Knowledge of horticulture, floriculture, arboricultural, agriculture, and agronomic skills and practices.
• Knowledge of principles and practices applicable to the administration, management, planning, and maintenance of horticultural planting operations.
• Knowledge of materials, methods, and equipment used in horticultural operations/services.
• Knowledge of principles and practices of supervision.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective public relationships with co-workers, supervisors, and the general public.
• Ability to carry out scientific and statistical analysis of horticultural problems.
• Ability to maintain accurate records and make comprehensive reports.
• Ability to communicate clearly and effectively.
• Ability to perform all physical requirements of the position, with or without accommodations.
• Working conditions are both in an indoor and outdoor environment.