Gardener - Trees

Position Title:

Gardener - Trees
Department:
Horticulture

Reports to:

Manager of Horticulture & Foreperson of Grounds
FLSA Status:
Full-time, Non-exempt
Grade:
Union

Brooklyn Botanic Garden (BBG) is seeking a full-time gardener to perform tree work and related duties under guidance of the director of Horticulture, manager of Horticulture, and general supervision of the foreperson of grounds. The Gardener title is a general gardener position and while the current staffing plan requires tree work, this may change and the incumbent may be reassigned to a different area of the Garden, as the Garden deems appropriate.

• Deal with all aspects of horticulture, such as planting, cultivating, watering, fertilizing, pruning, weeding, mulching and caring for trees, flowers, shrubs, lawns, and other flora, both on the grounds and in the conservatory.
• Inspect and identify pest problems and treat such problems using techniques of Integrated Pest Management.
• Select, propagate, design, and purchase plants with appropriate horticulture procedures.
• Operate and maintain hand- and power-gardening tools and small equipment. Make necessary operating adjustments to same and report need for repair and replacement.
• Operate large power-gardening equipment, such as a tractor, mower, rototiller, roller, sprayer, etc., as needed.
• Supervise assigned subordinate employees, including temporary workers and volunteers, instructing them in gardening techniques and in the proper use and care of materials and equipment.
• Keep records, including timely submission of plant inventory–control reports and label requests; keep a logbook of plant collections and job-related activities and submit quarterly reports to director of Horticulture.
• As directed, various tasks perform in connection with general grounds and conservatory care and Brooklyn Botanic Garden events.
• Adhere to the policies of the Horticulture department and Brooklyn Botanic Garden.
• Perform tasks as needed for show design and setups.
• Perform other related duties or special projects as directed.

• Two (2) years of college and/or associate degree related to horticulture; or three (3) years of full-time paid experience in maintenance of trees, shrubs, herbaceous plants and lawns, and operation and maintenance of gardening tools and equipment; or a satisfactory equivalent combination of education and experience.
• ISA Certified arborist status.
• TRAQ certification preferred.
• Pesticide technician or applicator certification preferred (or must be able to obtain Pesticide Apprentice Certification).
• Must know how to safely use a chainsaw.
• Ability to identify and discern between various tree conditions, perform tree inspections using advanced diagnostics, climb, prune, install support systems, remove trees, and complete other work as assigned.
• Must possess and maintain a valid driver's license.
• Ability to use computer-based tree management systems for scheduling, timekeeping, and inspections; accurately maintain tree care database records.
• Must be able to respond to emergency situations including, but not limited to, storms and snow events.
• May be called upon to work shifts including nights, Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays.
• Must be able to pass a written and/or practical test.
• Ability to lift 50 pounds.

• Salary Range – $64,852 - $74,580. Brooklyn Botanic Garden considers several factors when determining the appropriate salary to offer a candidate within the listed salary range. These factors include (but are not limited to), the scope and responsibilities of the position, a candidate’s relevant work experience and education/training, prior union/ DC37 experience (for union positions), job skills, equity across the institution, as well as market and organizational considerations.
• BBG offers a comprehensive benefits package including:
  • Health Insurance that begins the date of hire; employees are offered coverage through the City of New York’s Office of Labor Relations and can choose from a variety of plans, some at no cost to the employee.
  • Dental/Vision/Prescription Benefits.
  • Pre-Tax Benefits including flexible spending, dependent care,…