Horticultural Technician

Position Overview:
The City of Lakewood is committed to fostering values such as Performance Excellence, Leadership, Respect, and Collaboration. Ideal candidates will showcase creativity, exceptional customer service, dedication, enthusiasm, and active participation. All individuals, including citizens and employees, will be treated with dignity and significance.

Application Process:
Continuous

Compensation:
$19.00/hr

Job Summary:
The Horticulture Department of the City of Lakewood is on the lookout for a motivated and enthusiastic individual with a strong affinity for managing shrub and flower beds. Candidates should possess a keen interest in contributing to a collaborative environment and delivering outstanding service to the community.

Work will be conducted across 114 urban parks, providing a diverse and dynamic work setting. This role is perfect for those who prefer early morning shifts, allowing for afternoons free to enjoy personal time. Each day presents unique challenges and opportunities.

Work Schedule:
Monday-Thursday: 6:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.
Friday: 6:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
(40 hours/week)

The City of Lakewood is currently seeking variable employees for this role. A variable employee is an at-will worker engaged in seasonal or temporary tasks, with a schedule determined by operational needs. This position is part-time and does not include benefits.

Key Responsibilities:

• Weeding, pruning, watering, mulching, raking, and deadheading.
• Production and preparation of annual and perennial plant materials.
• Planting and maintaining floral displays in urban parks and city properties.
• Utilizing City-provided Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) during all activities.
• Performing other park maintenance tasks as required.

Please note that this is an entry-level position, and training will be provided.

Essential Qualifications:

• Must be at least 18 years old.

Experience:

• No prior experience is necessary.

Licensure/Certification:

• A valid driver's license and a clean driving record are required.

Skills and Abilities:

• Ability to work effectively as part of a team.
• A post-offer physical examination may be required.
• A background check will be conducted.

Physical Requirements:

• Lifting: Ability to lift items from various levels, including floor level, knee height, and above shoulder height, potentially exceeding 50 pounds.
• Items may include bags of fertilizer, seeds, tables, and tree limbs.

Language Skills:
Ability to read, interpret, and apply organizational policies and procedures, as well as work independently.

Communication:
Must communicate effectively with team members and the public in the field.

Equipment Used:
Vehicles, hand tools, and landscape maintenance equipment such as blowers, trimmers, edgers, tractors, loaders, and bobcats. Training will be provided.

Work Environment:
Most work is performed outdoors in various weather conditions, with additional tasks in shop facilities and greenhouses.

Compensation Range:
$14.42 - $18.29

Background and reference checks will be conducted for all regular and some variable/seasonal positions.

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