Landscape Specialist

GENERAL DEFINITION OF WORK:
Performs intermediate technical work planning, developing and implementing landscaping and turf management programs in the City; does related work as required. Work is performed under the moderate supervision of the Parks/Facilities Maintenance Superintendent.
 
This is medium work requiring the exertion of 50 pounds of force occasionally, up to 20 pounds of force frequently, and up to 10 pounds of force constantly to move objects; work requires balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, reaching, standing, walking, pushing, pulling, lifting, fingering, grasping, and repetitive motions; vocal communication is required for expressing or exchanging ideas by means of the spoken word; hearing is required to perceive information at normal spoken word levels; visual acuity is required for depth perception, color perception, preparing and analyzing written or computer data, use of measuring devices, assembly or fabrication of parts at or within arms' length, operation of machines, operation of motor vehicles or equipment, determining the accuracy and thoroughness of work, and observing general surroundings and activities; the worker is subject to outside environmental conditions, extreme cold, extreme heat, noise, vibration, hazards, and atmospheric conditions.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS/TYPICAL TASKS:
Planning and implementing landscaping and turf management programs; operating equipment; maintaining records; preparing reports.
Plans, coordinates and participates in the development and implementation of landscaping maintenance programs.
Produces scale drawings of areas to be landscaped; selects plants and material; procures supplies.
Paints out beds at sites; analyzes and orders chemicals, grass seed and fertilizer; takes soil samples.
Assigns spring and fall annuals to each location; estimates and purchases required plants.
Assigns work schedules for landscaping project bed maintenance of shrubs and flowerbeds.
Schedules mowing of turf areas, trimming of shrubs and limbs.
Schedules maintenance for soccer and ball fields.
Inspects soiling, seeding, aerating, tap dressing and related turf management operations for compliance with standards and regulations; checks for insect and disease problems.
Coordinates and participates in planting and pruning operations and disease and insect control programs.
Recommends equipment, materials and supplies purchases; prepares cost estimates and purchase requisitions.
Maintains a variety of records and prepares reports on operations.
Operates equipment such as tractors, mowers and power tools when required.
Coordinates the use of available equipment, materials and personnel to obtain maximum effectiveness and economy.
Performs related tasks as required.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:
General knowledge of the methods of turf management and landscaping techniques; general knowledge of the chemicals used in weed and insect control; general knowledge of the occupational hazards and safety precautions of the work and related equipment operation; skill in the use of the equipment and tools of the trade; ability to prepare plans and detailed reports; ability to plan and supervise the work of semiskilled workers; ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with associates and the general public.
 
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:
Any combination of education and experience equivalent to graduation from high school and moderate landscaping and turf management experience. 

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS:
Possession of pesticide/herbicide certificate. Possession of a commercial driver's license valid in the State of North Carolina or ability to obtain within six months.