Landscape Specialist

Lead, oversee and participate in the more complex and difficult work of staff responsible for performing a variety duties supporting the grounds maintenance, repair, improvement and renovation of City facilities within medians and streetscapes in the public right of way; and/or open spaces; p erform a variety of duties and technical tasks relative to assigned areas of responsibility. This is a safety sensitive position subject to random drug/alcohol testing. Job descriptions are intended to present a general list of tasks/duties performed by employees within this job classification. Job Descriptions are not intended to reflect all duties performed within the job.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Essential functions may include but are not limited to the functions listed below. Must be able to perform the essential functions of the job with or without a reasonable accommodation. Lead, plan, direct and participate in a variety of landscape and water conservation improvement projects for the beautification and maintenance of city properties within medians and streetscapes in the public right of way. Identify and evaluate proposed undeveloped areas for landscaping, beautification or wildflower renovation projects and prepare recommendation as to site selection, proper grading level, soil amendments, irrigation and plant material selection. Plan, direct and participate in the design, site development, set-up, planting, cultivation of new plants and the care and maintenance of flowering plants for beautification and renovation projects; clean and maintain existing properties. Plan, direct, and participate in a variety of landscape and plant maintenance duties including weed identification and abatement, and plant care with respect to pesticide application, trimming, pruning, transplanting, and water assessment. Determine project and daily tasks and the sequence of tasks associated with horticultural maintenance; oversee and participate in the work of gardening or grounds keeping crew; follow through on completion of tasks. Train assigned crew in their areas of work including median and right of way maintenance and renovation, procedures and techniques. Verify the work of assigned crew for accuracy, proper work methods and techniques, and compliance with applicable standards and specifications. Design, install, maintain and repair the irrigation system for city property improvements within right of way improvement projects; direct and participate in repairing existing irrigation systems as needed. Maintain inventory and operate of a variety of transport vehicles, tools and equipment; service and operate equipment used in grounds and gardening maintenance and irrigation installation and repair. Respond to public inquiries in a courteous manner; provide information within area of responsibility; resolve complaints in an efficient and timely manner. Ensure adherence to safe work practices and procedures. Maintain field records.

SUPPLEMENTAL FUNCTIONS

Participate in pest control operations. Maintain planted areas and surrounding areas. Perform related duties and responsibilities as required. Education directly related to the minimum requirements below may be substituted for experience on a year for year basis. High school diploma or GED; and Four (4) years experience in any combination of the following areas: parks maintenance landscaping maintenance horticulture grounds maintenance irrigation system repair

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

Possession of a valid New Mexico Commercial Driver's License (CDL) Class A or B. Possession of a City Operator's Permit (COP) within six (6) months from date of hire. Possession of a New Mexico Public Pesticide Applicator License Category 3A and 3B within six (6) months from date of hire.

Environmental:

Field environment; exposure to noise, dust, grease, smoke, fumes, gases, inclement weather conditions; work in or with water; may travel site to site.

Physical:

Essential and supplemental functions may require maintaining physical condition necessary for heavy, moderate or light lifting; bending, stooping, kneeling, reaching, crawling; walking or standing for prolonged periods.