Tech Specialist II Horticulture Assistant

Performs technical work related to horticulture in the campus landscape, including planning for the display of and monitoring the planting and maintenance of flowers, flowering shrubs, annual plants, and perennial plants. Works under the supervision of the Head of Grounds Services. Responsibilities: Prepares plans for and participates in the planting and display of flowers and plants. Oversees and participates in the planting and maintenance of flowers and plants. Operates multi-purpose vehicles with large, complex attachments. Switches and installs attachments to tractors, trucks, and other multi-purpose vehicles. Identifies repair and replacement needs by observing and evaluating equipment and grounds areas. Ensures adequate materials are available to complete assignments. Attends meetings and trainings to receive and convey information. Identifies and troubleshoots problems related to plants, shrubs, turf, and trees. Performs grounds keeping activities, including trimming, pruning, cutting, and planting. Seeds, waters, weeds, and fertilizes lawns, flower beds, and shrubs. Sprays lawns, flower beds, and shrubs with fertilizers, pesticides, or herbicides. Assists in designing flower beds and planning plant placement. Cuts lawns using hand or power mowers and uses string trimmers and edgers for lawn maintenance. Performs related duties, such as emptying rubbish barrels and sweeping walks. Operates lawn and grounds equipment, including power saws and backpack blowers. Operates light trucks to transport tools and equipment. Performs snow removal operations using light trucks, snow blowers, and shovels. Supports campus events and approved student activities as needed. Uses hand tools for raking, pruning, and weeding. Ensures tools are maintained and stored properly. Uses power washer to remove graffiti from sidewalks and landscape elements. Works with student interns to ensure they meet internship requirements. Assists in ordering and purchasing plant material for the landscape greenhouse. Assists in designing and laying out new planting beds and event arrangements. Checks soil conditions to determine nutrient and moisture requirements. Monitors use of irrigation system and performs test runs for preventative and corrective maintenance. Maintains updated copies of Material Safety Data Sheets on all chemicals used. May assist in applying herbicide on university-owned land. Performs manual labor for extended periods under varying climate conditions. Performs job responsibilities in an environmentally compliant manner. Qualifications: 5 years of full-time or equivalent part-time horticulture experience, including planning and planting displays. Class D Driver's License required at time of hire. Massachusetts Pesticide Bureau Certification State Code 41, or ability to obtain within one year from date of hire. Massachusetts Hoisting License required at time of hire or completion of licensure within two months from date of hire. Massachusetts Pesticide Applicator's License required at time of hire or completion of licensure within two months from date of hire. Commercial Driver's License (CDL) preferred. Knowledge of state and federal laws regarding pesticide storage, use, and disposal. Ability to work outdoors under various weather conditions and exposure to chemical hazards. Knowledge of horticulture principles, safety practices, and techniques. Knowledge of materials and equipment used in horticulture. Knowledge of terminology and standard abbreviations used in horticulture. Knowledge of flower varieties and uses. Knowledge of soils and conditions that foster plant growth. Knowledge of Integrated Pest Management (IPM) practices and fertilizers, germicides, herbicides, fungicides, and pesticides. Ability to analyze horticulture data, draw conclusions, and make recommendations. Knowledge of computer use, including word processing, spreadsheets, and email software. Ability to follow and provide oral and written instructions. Excellent leadership, customer service, and record-keeping skills. Ability to perform manual labor for extended periods under varying climate conditions.

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