POSITION SUMMARY:Under supervision, the Assistant Horticulturist is responsible for assisting Horticulturists and Senior Horticulturists in performing all horticulture field operations of the landscape, garden and tree maintenance under the jurisdiction of Battery Park City Authority (BPCA). The incumbent should be conscious and proactive towards making BPCA a model of sustainable practices and kept to the standards in which all those who live, work, and visit Battery Park City (BPC) have come to expect. As with all positions, this position will continually exemplify and promote the core values, mission, and culture of BPCA.
Essential Duties:The list of essential functions, as outlined herein, is intended to be representative of the tasks performed within this classification. It is not necessarily descriptive of any one position in this class. The omission of an essential function does not preclude management from assigning duties not listed herein if such functions are a logical assignment to the position.
- Assist all aspects of horticulture such as, planting, transplanting, weeding, watering, mulching, chipping, composting, pruning, deadheading, and other related tasks
- Complete assigned tasks and projects in an efficient and effective manner
- Assist in the development of healthy soils through best management practices, including producing and applying compost and compost tea
- Work closely with Seasonal Horticulturists, volunteers and other BPCA staff to complete assigned tasks
- Assist in managing garden spaces, trees and irrigation systems as assigned and identify solutions as appropriate to focus on optimum plant health
- Assist in scouting and reporting potential insect, disease and other pest problems in line with integrated pest management techniques, including identification and implementation cultural controls
- Assist in maintaining, updating, and creating appropriate records and documents
- Remove litter and maintain high organizational standards of cleanliness
- When requested, work closely with other Parks Operations staff and BPCA departments to participate in public educational activities such as garden tours, volunteer groups and public and programmed events
- Safely and effectively operate equipment, including but not limited to vehicles, hand tools, power equipment and safety equipment
- Always maintain a high standard for safety by timely and safely cautioning off sites for workplace and public safety, and use personal protective equipment and adhere to OSHA, PESH, Federal, State, and City rules and regulations
- Identify and report park issues and hazards appropriately and timely
- Perform emergency and non-emergency work as assigned such as programmed and permitted events, field specific issues and severe weather events such as snow and ice removal and flood protection measure during and outside of working hours
- Always maintain professionalism, including when interacting with the public
- Perform other duties as required within the scope of the position
Qualifications:- Minimum of two (2) years' experience in Horticulture and/or related field
- High School Diploma or GED
- Valid U.S. Driver's License
- OSHA 10
Preferred Qualifications:- Certifications, higher education, and/or trainings on relevant skills
- Experience working in public settings
- Experience with sustainable landscaping practices
- Experience with pest management
Competencies: - Detailed oriented
- Problem solving
- Conflict Resolution
- Collaborative
Skills:- Knowledge of horticultural, composting and pest management techniques
- Excellent communication skills (verbal and writing)
- Exhibit good judgement and decision-making skills
- Ability to interact well with all levels of staff
- Ability to learn new skills and maintain up to date information on relevant skills and techniques
- Knowledge in Microsoft Office Suite programs
Physical Requirements: - Must bewilling and able to work outdoors and in all types of weather
- Stand, sit and squat for long periods of time
- Perform repetitive movements
- Must be able to push, pull and lift 50 pounds
- Must have the physical ability to work in public spaces
- Use their hands/body to control, use, and feel objects, tools or controls
