4054

GARDENS ASSISTANT; SPECIALIST

NATURE OF WORK This is skilled horticultural work in the production, propagation, care, cultivation, display and transplanting of various and with a focused emphasis on the Virginia Clemens Rose . Work is performed under the direction of the Gardens Supervisor. However, considerable independent judgment and initiative is required in the selection of work methods, materials, and tools. Work is reviewed during progress and upon completion. Supervision of others may be exercised.

EXAMPLES OF WORK (Any one of this class may not include all duties listed, nor do listed examples include all duties which may be found in positions of this class). Performs skilled horticultural work involving the production, propagation, cultivation, and display of greenhouse and garden plants; Plants seeds and speed plugs, roots cuttings; prepares potting soil; pots rooted plants; transfers flats between various sections of greenhouse, monitors greenhouse and display gardens to determine and approve daily cultural needs such as water, fertilizer, , weeding, and cleaning; Assists in the design of outdoor floral gardens and displays with the emphasis focused on the Virginia Clemens Rose Garden; specialization in the horticultural care and maintenance of ; Maintains flower beds, lawns, , and other buildings and areas in and around Munsinger Gardens and Clemens Gardens; Directs seasonal staff and volunteers including enforcement of safety and training policies; Operates and maintains power equipment such as lawn mowers, weed whips, blowers, sod cutters, snow blowers, and other equipment; issues tools, equipment, and vehicles; Monitors and cleans pools; repairs and maintains fountains; programs, repairs, and maintains irrigation systems; Prepares flowerbeds by raking, top dressing with , weeds, tills, and fertilizes; divides and moves perennials; prepares beds for spring and winter; Leads tour groups; responds to visitors inquiries regarding horticultural practices, identification, and Park history; Performs related work as required.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS Graduation from an accredited program with a 2-year degree in , , , or related field, plus one year experience in commercial horticulture, including greenhouse production and operation. OR High School graduate with 5 years experience in commercial horticulture, including a focused rose specialization. Must also have a valid MN driver’s license.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENT; must possess or have the ability to acquire within 4 months of date of hire a MN applicator’s license.

DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS Knowledge of the horticultural/botanical science principles, practices, terminology, and methods related to the areas of rose care, plant and tree care, and pesticide application; Knowledge of the techniques, materials, and tools related to the nursery trade; Knowledge of the characteristics of indigenous and extraneous plants; Ability to understand and follow written and oral instructions; Skill in the use of tools common to the nursery trade; Prefer experience in public gardens;

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS The following are considered essential duties to the position of Gardens Assistant; Rose Specialist, and must be met with or without reasonable accommodations: Must be able to perform strenuous physical work under varying weather conditions including repetitive bending, stooping, kneeling, and lifting up to 50 lbs.; Must be able to comprehend moderately complex written and oral instructions in order to read chemical instructions, catalog descriptions, and planting and fertilizing instructions; must be able to read, write, and speak English a sufficient level to perform the above as well as prioritize and communicate job tasks to subordinates; Must be able to recognize and identify particular plants, bulbs, weeds, and other greenery; Must be able to recognize, identify, and operate required equipment and tools as assigned for the job; Must be capable of practical thinking and average judgement in order to work independently; Must possess the interpersonal skills necessary to lead, direct, and supervise a wide range of personalities; Must have considerable manual dexterity in order to perform most functions required of this position. 10/27/03