Job Description

HORTICULTURE SUPERVISOR (FULL TIME)

DEPARTMENT

Horticulture

CLASSIFICATION

Non-Exempt

REPORTS TO

Horticulture Manager

DIRECT REPORTS

Landscapers

POSITION DESCRIPTION:

The Horticulture Supervisor is responsible for supervising the landscaping staff in the maintenance of the Zoo's landscaping and horticulture areas, as well as assisting the Manager with day-to-day operations of the department.

POSITION DUTIES & ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

Duties

Percentage

Assists with maintaining Zoo's landscaping and horticultural areas, greenhouses and tropical plant collection including:
Installing, propagating, and harvesting all types of plant material. Maintaining perennial and annual plantings. Plant research including best growing practices and plant toxicity. Performing turf management, which includes fertilization and chemical application, as well as the use of equipment such as a mower, line trimmer, and backpack blower. Weeding, mulching, trimming, leaf clean-up, and general landscape preparation/maintenance. Greenhouse maintenance including utility efficiency, and mitigating potential utility loss, as well as integrated pest management, fertilization schedules, and use of skid steer for planter placement. Assisting with maintaining compost, which includes turning and pushing the material with a front-end loader, and loading compost for customers using a skid steer. Plant identification knowledge for purposes of harvesting enrichment and browse materials as well as eradication of toxic plants. Installing and maintaining irrigation. Assessing storm impacts and proper action for snow and ice removal. 35%



Assists manager with the supervision of horticulture staff and day to day operations, including:
Training, coaching, developing, evaluating, and policy compliance. Overseeing horticulture projects and tasks. Delegating and prioritizing work assignments given by manager. Assisting with property assessment of landscaping maintenance needs. Communicating horticulture inventory and department needs to manager. 20%



Assist with plant pesticide management, including:
Assessing pest damage, incorporating integrated pest management and application. Researching chemicals, monitoring storage, equipment, and spill response areas. Maintaining records and SDS book upkeeping. 20%



Tree management, including:
Tree identification, assessment and treatment as needed. Proper tree trimming practices. Delegating difficult tree removals, including operating from a lift as well as utilizing proper PPE. 15%

This position may at times be requested to perform other duties or special projects as assigned, which are in the best interest of the Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium.

All employees must be able to perform the essential functions of this position satisfactorily and, upon request, reasonable accommodations will be made to enable employees with disabilities to perform the essential functions of their job, absent undue hardship.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

EDUCATION & FORMAL TRAINING:

+ High school diploma or equivalent preferred.

+ Associate's or Bachelor's Degree in horticulture or related field preferred.

+ Must have or be willing to obtain Missouri pesticide license.

EXPERIENCE:

+ At least 3 years' experience in horticulture or related field required.

+ Previous supervisory experience preferred.

+ Comprehensive knowledge of standard horticulture practices and equipment required.

+ Strong computer skills, including Microsoft Office, preferred.

+ Strong verbal and written communication skills.

OTHER MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:

+ Must have valid driver's license.

+ Must be able to lift 50 pounds with or without assistance. Assistance depending upon task or role.

+ Must be able to operate gas powered equipment, such as line trimmers, lawn mowers, backpack blowers, chainsaw and edgers.

+ Must be able to work a flexible schedule, including weekends, holidays, and evening hours, in all weather extremes. Normal schedule will include one weekend day per week.

+ Must pass a background and drug screening.