The Gardener Work Leader, WL-5003-6 is assigned to the Grounds and Transportation Unit within the Engineering Service of the James H. Quillen VA Medical Center, Mountain Home, TN Health Care System. The incumbent serves as the Head Gardener and Grounds and Transportation Unit Work Leader under the direct supervision of the Supervisor Gardener.

Qualifications:

To qualify for this position, applicants must meet all requirements by the closing date of this announcement, 10/09/2026.

EXPERIENCE

A specific length of training and experience is not required, but you must show evidence of training or experience of sufficient scope and quality of your ability to do the work of this position. Evidence which demonstrates you possess the knowledge, skills, and ability to perform the duties of this position must be supported by detailed descriptions of such on your resume. Applicants will be rated in accordance with the OPM Federal Wage System Qualification Standards .

SCREEN-OUT ELEMENT

Your qualifications will first be evaluated against the prescribed screen out element, which usually appears as question 1 in the on-line questionnaire. Those applicants who appear to possess at least the minimal acceptable qualification requirement are considered for further rating; those who do not are rated ineligible and are eliminated. The potential eligibles are then rated against the remainder of the

Job Elements:

Ability to Lead or Supervise Ability to Use and Maintain Tools and Equipment Dexterity and Safety Knowledge of Materials Technical Practices (Theoretical, Precise, Artistic) Use of Measuring Instruments Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religions; spiritual; community; student; social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.

Note :

A full year of work is considered to be 35-40 hours of work per week. Part-time experience will be credited on the basis of time actually spent in appropriate activities. Applicants wishing to receive credit for such experience must indicate clearly the nature of their duties and responsibilities in each position and the number of hours a week spent in such employment.

Physical Requirements/Working Conditions:

Work will be performed over 250 acres and, as such, requires frequent walking, and the use of a tractor for transportation of equipment and materials. Frequent bending, stooping, and standing are required due to the nature of the work. The The Head Gardener/Work Leader will climb ladders to prune, plant material, or perform tasks such as placing Christmas lights. Incumbent will be required to lift heavy objects such as fertilizer, salt; plant material and maneuver loaded wheelbarrows. The majority of work is done outdoors. The Head Gardener/Work Leader will be subject to discomfort from long periods of heat and humidity, cold, wind, rain and snow, and will perform responsibilities with minimum interruption under these conditions. Incumbent will be exposed to chemical sprays and dusts. Employee will be provided protective clothing and equipment such as gloves, respirator, safety shoes and boots. The work requires frequent walking, standing, bending, and stooping.