Landscape Technician

Department: General Services / Two Rivers ParkPosition Control Number: 0605-002FLSA Status: Non-Exempt; the position is eligible for overtimeSafety Sensitive Designation: This position is designated as safety-sensitive.Random Drug/Alcohol Test: YesOpening Date: September 27, 2024Closing Date: October 3, 2024 at 11:59 PMThis job description should not be interpreted as all-inclusive. It is intended to identify the essential functions and minimum qualifications of this job. The incumbent(s) may be required to perform job-related responsibilities and tasks other than those stated in this job description. Nothing in this job description restricts management's right to assign or reassign job-related responsibilities and tasks to this job at any time. Certain functions are understood to be essential; these include, but are not limited to, attendance, getting along with others, working a full shift, and dealing with and working under stress. Any essential function of this class will be evaluated as necessary should an incumbent/applicant be unable to perform the function or requirement due to a disability as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Reasonable accommodation for the specific disability will be made for the incumbent/applicant only to the extent medically and reasonably feasible.An Equal Opportunity EmployerJOB SUMMARY: Responsible for the design and maintenance of the landscaped areas and grounds surrounding County buildings and Garden Center.ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:* Maintains all plants within the landscaped areas of County buildings ensuring adequate amounts of fertilizer, insecticides, herbicides, and water are applied. * Selects and purchases plants for landscaping around County buildings based on the amount of sunlight, shade, drainage, and availability of water. * Positions plants, trees, flowers, shrubs, etc., ensuring optimal health of plants, beauty, and functional usage. * Maintains lawns surrounding County buildings and at Garden Center using lawnmowers, weed-eaters, and blowers. * Prunes trees, shrubs, bushes, etc. as needed at appropriate times of the year. * Purchases appropriate fertilizer, insecticides, herbicides, and other needed chemicals to maintain plant life. * Removes leaves, branches, and other debris from County grounds. * Cuts branches and plants using hand tools. * Maintains records of all chemicals applied to plant life on County grounds. * Obtains soil samples on a periodic basis from County Extension Services; maintains a log of results of all soil samples. * Assess water and drainage needs for the landscaped area; determine the appropriate draining system and needed water supply for the area. * Designs landscaping on County grounds including flowerbeds, plant boxes, walk areas, etc. * Maintains rose garden fountain ensuring proper functioning. * Conducts routine maintenance of lawn maintenance power equipment as needed. * Installs, repairs, and maintains sprinkler systems in landscaped areas. * Maintains the inventory of all equipment, tools, and chemicals used in landscape maintenance. * Conducts proper winterizing of plants to ensure survival through cold weather. * Assigns and supervises the work of two to four inmates performing landscaping duties. * Picks up inmates and supplies in County vehicles as needed.SECONDARY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:* Performs other related duties as required.PERSONNEL SUPERVISED: NoneWORKING CONDITIONS: Duties are performed primarily outdoors with exposure to a variety of types of weather conditions. Requires occasional travel to other areas of the County.MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:REQUIRED SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE, AND ABILITIES:*

Considerable knowledge of the principles, methods, and theories of horticulture, landscape design, and grounds maintenance. * Considerable knowledge of the design and maintenance of water supply and drainage systems. * Considerable knowledge of the chemicals used in weed and insect control and fertilization. * Considerable knowledge of basic mathematics. * Good knowledge of grounds maintenance and upkeep. * Ability to follow oral and written instructions. * Ability to maintain an accurate recordkeeping system of plant care and inventory. * Ability to safely mix chemicals used in weed and insect control. * Ability to analyze the area to be landscaped and make effective recommendations. * Ability to diagnose plant growth problems or plant diseases. * Ability to direct the work of others. * Ability to attend work regularly and reliably.PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:*

Ability to bend, stoop, and crouch when planting, weeding, weed-eating, or similar duties. * Ability to lift and carry loads up to 50 pounds. * Visual acuity is needed to detect discoloration of growth problems in plants and to assess the condition of the grounds. * Ability to walk and push a lawnmower to cut grass. * Ability to work in a constant state of alertness and in a safe manner. * Ability to concentrate for long periods of time.EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:Completion of high school or GED equivalency with advanced training in landscaping and horticulture; considerable work experience with plant care, landscape design, and maintenance, or a related area; or any equivalent combination of experience and training which provides the required skills, knowledge, and abilities.Employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a criminal background check, motor vehicle report, and a pre-employment job-related physical.In addition to pre-employment checks, employees who operate county vehicles are required to undergo an annual motor vehicle report.This position is safety-sensitive and is subject to random drug and alcohol testing.Must possess or be able to immediately obtain a valid Arkansas Driver's License.Regular and reliable attendance is an essential function of this position.