HORTICULTURIST

1. Performs a variety of tasks in connection with the operation/maintenance of green infrastructure within the county park system including but not limited to invasive species removal, prairie planting, wetland restoration, grounds keeping, and rain garden maintenance; assists in the use of prescribed fire.
2. Plants, propagates, cultivates, prunes, waters, fertilizes and spays plants, trees, shrubs, flowers, and other vegetation; transplants various plant materials; prepares soil mixtures; labels, maps and inventories various plant collections and applies growth regulates; sows seeds and plant cuttings.
3. Cuts and trims grass, trees and shrubs using hand and power tools; performs weed control, edging, mulching, and removal of vegetation within landscaped areas; detects/identifies pest infestations and disease problems; performs chemical applications of pesticides, herbicides, fungicides and fertilizers for control of noxious weeds, invasive species, and broad-based weed control.
4. Coordinates native seed collection efforts and proper storage of seeds collected; collects, enters and analyzes vegetation data to evaluate management effectiveness related to weed control, plant disease, and native plant restoration.
5. Operates mowers, edgers, weed-eaters, brush cutters and other gardening tools; cleans/maintains equipment.
6. Participate in field work which involves botanical, and wetland resources; may assist with prairie and wetlands restoration/ enhancement; may monitor/survey condition of natural resources for various parks.
7. Monitors/evaluates ground/premises for safety hazards; takes immediate action in reporting/correcting any possible hazards.
8. Prepares/maintains records/reports including daily work order activity, and spray records.
9. Performs related duties as assigned.