Gardener - $20-21.59/hr

Seattle Center
CITY OF SEATTLE
Employment Opportunity

GARDENER

FILING PERIOD: 11/23/08 – 12/16/08

HOURLY RATE: $20.00 to 21.59/hour plus comprehensive benefits package

PRIMARY DUTIES: Reporting to the Landscape Supervisor, work with a team of gardeners in close proximity to the public, scheduling and performing work and tasks around events that are held indoors and outdoors across a 74-acre campus. This gardening team participates in planting, transplanting, weeding, pruning and care of seasonal plants, perennials, shrubs, and trees and maintains approximately 10 acres of intensely used, high quality sand-based turf. Work independently and, from time to time, lead small crews of intermittent and/or regular laborers. Evaluate conditions and situations in the field and take appropriate action without direct supervision on a regular basis. Participate in design, planning and installation of campus landscapes. Daily and seasonal operations require demonstrated knowledge of standard methods, materials, procedures, tools and equipment associated with landscaping and gardening. Gardeners operate and perform minor maintenance on Maxicom, a computerized automated, centrally controlled irrigation system. Use power equipment including riding mower, aerator/seeder, small tractor, pickup, backpack blower, edger and chainsaw. Operate forklift and manlift in support of gardening operations.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS: Two years experience as a journey level landscaper or gardener. A Washington Public Pesticide Operator’s License with an Aquatics or Public Health endorsement must be acquired within one year of hire. Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds on a regular basis. Must be willing and able to work outside in all kinds of weather. Must be able to stand, walk or bend for extended periods of time. Must have the ability to work effectively and safely in close proximity to the public. Must be at least 18 years old, and have a valid Driver's License at time of application. The successful candidate must provide a complete driver’s abstract.

DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS: Seattle Center is a values-based organization that encourages employee participation, open communication, teamwork and collaborative problem solving. The successful candidate will have the ability to work within a diverse workforce and be effective in a team setting or alone after being given verbal or written instructions. Must be able to organize work, solve medium to complex problems and manage competing and inflexible deadlines. Demonstrated experience and knowledge of all aspects of grounds maintenance is highly desirable. College level studies and strong interest in horticulture are desirable, as are experience working with and knowledge of Pacific Northwest plants and landscapes. Strong team player attributes and the ability to effectively juggle multiple projects and tasks are needed for this position. General familiarity with computers for communication and time keeping purposes and knowledge of Maxicom Central Control irrigation systems are highly desirable.

HOW TO APPLY: Please go to http://www.seattle.gov/jobs to view job posting (#SC-48), print application and/or submit application materials online. Successful candidate will be required to pass a pre-employment physical and criminal history background check to be eligible for hire. In compliance with the Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986, all persons offered employment must provide proof of identity and authorization to work in the United States at time of hire.

Women, Persons of Color, and Persons with Disabilities Encouraged to Apply
Individuals requiring special accommodations or interpreter services must request in advance