Horticulturist

The City of Lenexa Parks and Recreation department is currently seeking a motivated individual with a passion for public service to join us as a Horticulturist. The ideal for this candidate will:

• Have a working knowledge of horticulture or a strong interest in plant care
• Be dependable and willing to work outdoors year-round
• Demonstrate the ability to work collaboratively

Hours

This position works Monday through Friday 6:30 AM – 3:00 PM.

Position Summary

The City is looking to a hire a Horticulturist I, II or III. The Horticulturist I is an entry-level position assisting with landscape installation, garden and bed maintenance, plant propagation and greenhouse operations. This position works under close supervision and develops foundational skills in horticulture, with regular cross-training and support for division-wide needs. Pending years of experience, levels II and III perform similar activities with progressively greater degrees of responsibility and leadership.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist with planting, weeding, mulching and maintenance of flower beds and landscaped areas.
• Operate landscape equipment.
• Support greenhouse operations, plant propagation and seasonal displays.
• Perform routine maintenance and cleaning of tools, equipment and vehicles. Update work orders and maintenance logs daily.
• Assist with trash and debris removal, snow and ice removal and special event support.
• Collaborate with other division staff and assist in forestry areas as needed to meet operational needs.
• Drive City and/or personal vehicle to perform essential functions of position.

Environmental and Physical Factors

This position requires the ability to walk/climb over difficult and uneven terrain; the ability to crawl, stoop, bend, twist and maintain balance; the ability to lift products weighing up to 50 lbs. from floor to waist frequently; the ability and strength to push/pull objects weighing up to 50 lbs.; hear warning alarms and radio transmissions, etc. routinely; and visual acuity to inspect work. This position requires the ability to work outside in extreme weather conditions; the ability to tolerate exposure to pollen, traffic and machine exhaust; and routine exposure to hazardous chemicals, paints and caustic cleaning supplies, as well as possible exposure to bloodborne pathogens and human bacteria.

Qualifications

Minimum for Level I: High school diploma or G.E.D plus 1-2 years of experience in landscape maintenance or related field.

Minimum for Level II: High school diploma or G.E.D plus 2-3 years of experience in landscape maintenance or related field. Class B CDL required upon hire. Must have completed Kansas Pesticide Applicator License and Kansas Arborist Certification or International Society of Arborists Certification within one year of hire.

Compensation and Benefits

Depending on qualifications and years of experience, compensation for this position is as follows:

• Level I: $20.10 - $22.62 per hour
• Level II: $21.02 - $24.37 per hour

This is a non-exempt position and is eligible for overtime pay. In addition to the above, the City offers a comprehensive benefits package including:

• Free or low cost on-site medical clinic
• Six weeks paid parental leave
• 4% employer retirement contribution with optional 2% match
• Tuition reimbursement up to $4,500 per year
• Additional personal leave during first year of employment for new employees
• Minimum 2 weeks' vacation for first year
• 10 paid holidays per year
• Paid sick leave and personal leave
• Free individual membership to the Lenexa Rec Center

Offers of employment are conditional upon successful completion of pre-employment drug screen, background check, and physical, agility, and hearing tests.

To apply complete an online application. Attach your resume reflecting your work history. Applications are reviewed as they are received.

As an equal opportunity employer, the City of Lenexa strives to treat all employees fairly, with consistency and respect, while providing a positive, challenging and rewarding work environment. We value and encourage diversity in our workplace.