Company Logo or Photo

Tech Specialist II Horticulture Assistant

Job Overview

briefcase

Employment Type

Full-time
clock

Compensation

Type:
Hourly
Rate:
Exact $32.92
clock

Work Schedule

Standard Hours
diamond

Benefits

Health Insurance
Dental Insurance
Paid Time Off
Retirement Plan
Employee assistance program
Professional Development
Tuition remission

Job Description

UMass Boston is a leading public university recognized for its commitment to academic excellence, research, and community engagement. Situated in an urban setting, the university offers diverse opportunities for students, faculty, and staff and is dedicated to maintaining a sustainable and beautiful campus environment. The Facilities Administration department plays a crucial role in ensuring that the campus grounds and facilities are well-maintained, welcoming, and conducive to a productive academic atmosphere. Among the key components of this department is the Grounds Services unit, responsible for the meticulous care and presentation of the campus landscape, involving horticultural expertise, equipment operation, and ongoing... Show More

Job Requirements

  • Education or equivalent experience in horticulture
  • Five years of full-time or equivalent part-time horticulture experience
  • Class D Driver's License required at time of hire
  • Massachusetts Pesticide Bureau Certification required or ability to obtain within one year
  • Massachusetts Hoisting License required at time of hire or completion within two months
  • Massachusetts Pesticide Applicator's License required at time of hire or completion within two months
  • Ability to work outdoors under all weather conditions and chemical hazards
  • Ability to operate and maintain grounds equipment
  • Ability to perform manual labor for extended periods
  • Good communication and leadership skills

Job Qualifications

  • Five years of full-time or equivalent part-time horticulture experience including planning and planting displays
  • Class D Driver's License required at time of hire
  • Massachusetts Pesticide Bureau Certification State Code 41 required or ability to obtain within one year
  • Massachusetts Hoisting License required at time of hire or completion within two months
  • Massachusetts Pesticide Applicator's License required at time of hire or completion within two months
  • Knowledge of state and federal laws on pesticide storage, use, and disposal
  • Ability to work outdoors under all weather conditions and exposure to chemical hazards
  • Knowledge of horticultural principles, safety practices, and techniques
  • Knowledge of horticultural materials and equipment
  • Knowledge of horticulture terminology and abbreviations
  • Knowledge of flower varieties including annuals and perennials
  • Knowledge of soils and conditions for plant growth
  • Knowledge of Integrated Pest Management practices
  • Ability to analyze horticultural data and make recommendations
  • Proficiency with word processing, spreadsheets, and email software
  • Ability to follow and provide oral and written instructions
  • Excellent leadership, customer service, and record keeping skills
  • Ability to operate motor vehicles for landscaping work
  • Ability to perform manual labor under varying climate conditions and chemical exposure

Job Duties

  • Prepares plans for and participates in the planting and display of flowers and plants
  • Oversees and participates in the planting and maintenance of flowers and plants
  • Operates multi-purpose vehicles with large, complex attachments
  • Switches and installs attachments on vehicles for various grounds operations
  • Identifies repair and replacement needs of equipment and grounds
  • Ensures adequate materials are available to complete assignments
  • Attends meetings and training sessions
  • Identifies and troubleshoots problems related to plants and turf
  • Trims, prunes, cuts, and plants flowers, bushes, and trees
  • Seeds, waters, weeds, and fertilizes lawns and flower beds
  • Sprays lawns and shrubs with fertilizers, pesticides, or herbicides
  • Assists in designing flower beds and planning plant placement
  • Cuts lawns and maintains edges
  • Performs related duties like emptying rubbish barrels, sweeping, picking up litter, cleaning ditches and drains, shoveling snow, and raking leaves
  • Operates lawn and grounds equipment including power saws and blowers
  • Operates light trucks to transport equipment and perform landscaping work
  • Carries out snow removal operations
  • Uses bucket trucks or lifts for hanging banners
  • Supports campus events and student activities
  • Uses hand tools and power washer as needed
  • Works with student interns to meet their internship requirements
  • Assists in ordering and purchasing plant material
  • Assists in design and layout of planting beds
  • Checks soil conditions and monitors irrigation systems
  • Maintains safety data sheets for chemicals used
  • May assist with herbicide application
  • Performs manual labor under various climate conditions
  • Performs duties in an environmentally compliant manner
  • Operates motor vehicles to travel on campus

Job Qualifications

Experience

Mid Level (3-7 years)

Job Location

Loading...