Horticulturist

Position Summary:The Horticulturist is responsible for the overall health, cleanliness and operations of the landscapes, soils and tree maintenance throughout Battery Park City. The Horticulturist should be aware of sustainable practices and take proactive steps towards applying these practices in their daily work. As with all positions, this position will continually exemplify and promote the core values, mission, and culture of the organization.Essential Duties:• Perform tasks such as, planting, transplanting, weeding, watering, mulching, chipping, composting, pruning, deadheading, and other related tasks• Assist in scheduling and leading staff to complete daily tasks, short-term and long-term projects, and planting plans• Manage garden spaces, trees, soils and irrigation systems proactively and identify solutions as necessary to focus on optimum plant health• Develop healthy soils through best management practices, including production and use of compost and compost tea• Scout and report potential insect, disease and pest problems as part of integrated pest management, including identification and implementation of cultural and chemical controls. Assist in control methods• Assist in creating, updating, and maintaining appropriate records and Standard Operating Procedures• Assist in the oversight and management of inventory of commonly used supplies, tools, and parts• Collaborate with other staff and contractors as needed• Work closely with other Parks Operations staff and BPCA departments to assist in public educational activities such as garden tours, volunteer groups and public and programmed events• Remove liter and maintain high organizational standards of cleanliness• Maintain a high standard for safety by timely and safely cautioning off sites for workplace and public safety• Safely and effectively operate equipment, e.g., vehicles, hand tools, power equipment and safety equipment• Use personal protective equipment and adhere to all safety rules and regulations• Identify and report park issues and hazards appropriately and timely• Perform emergency and non-emergency work as assigned such as work related to programmed and permitted events, job specific issues, and severe weather events, e.g., snow and ice removal and flood protection measures as directed• Maintain professionalism including when interacting with the public• Perform other duties as assignedEducation and Experience:• Minimum of three (3) years' experience in Horticulture• Experience in leading teams• High School Diploma or GED• Valid U.S. Driver's License• OSHA 10, certifications, higher education, and/or trainings on relevant skills preferred• NYSDEC Pesticide Technician License preferred• Experience working in public settings and knowledge of sustainability practices preferredCompetencies:• Detail oriented• Problems solving skills• Conflict resolution skills• CollaborativeSkills:• A high level of horticultural, compost, and pest identification and management knowledge• Knowledge of irrigation systems and its components• Ability to operate tools and equipment to perform work• Excellent verbal and written communication skills• Good judgement and decision-making skills• Ability to interact well with staff at all levels of the organization• Ability to learn new skills and maintain up to date information on relevant skills and techniques• Ability to read blueprints and plans• Knowledge of Microsoft Office SuitePhysical Requirements:• Must be able to work outdoors and in all types of weather• Stand, sit, and squat for long periods of time• Perform repetitive movements• Push, pull, and lift up to 50 lbs.Battery Park City Authority is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. All qualified people with disabilities are encouraged to apply.