LANDSCAPE GARDENER II

Full-Time

George Washington’s Mount Vernon is looking for a qualified candidate for a full-time landscape gardener position at one of the preeminent historic homes and landscapes in the country. This is an exciting opportunity to work in and learn about all areas of the historic Mount Vernon landscape, as well as the adjacent Fred W. Smith Memorial Library landscape, which is home to many plants, shrubs, and trees that are native to Virginia.

GENERAL DESCRIPTION:

The landscape gardener will be responsible for managing the landscaped areas outside the historic gardens at the Mount Vernon Estate property. Candidate should be confident and knowledgeable in the cultivation practices of native and non-native trees, shrubs, annuals, and perennials. Possession of or ability to obtain a Virginia pesticide applicator’s certification is essential for this position. Applicants are expected to behave and communicate in a manner that promotes and fosters a culture of teamwork and cooperation, within the Horticulture department and throughout the Estate, with co-workers, management, and volunteers.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

Responsible for following best cultural practices, including planting, pruning, and watering to maintain the health and aesthetics of landscaped beds on the Estate.
Responsible for identifying and controlling insects, diseases, and weeds. Apply insecticides, fungicides, and herbicides safely and properly, and maintain pesticide records.
Understand basic soil structure and soil health and the relationship to plant health.
Work closely with all other horticulture personnel and assist where needed.
Possess proficiency in the operation and maintenance of equipment and power tools.
Maintain records of work activities and submit information for monthly reports.
Responsible for staying up-to-date and informed on latest horticultural practices and pesticides.
Interact positively with visitors, answering questions and giving directions.
Work with little direction or supervision.
Practice and maintain safety standards and procedures in all work areas and assure others work safely as well.
Conduct all work in accordance with department procedures and guidelines.
Perform other related duties as requested by immediate supervisor and carry out the completion of special assignments.
Be available for snow and ice removal and storm damage cleanup.

QUALIFICATIONS:

A minimum of a two-year degree in horticulture or related field, or a non-horticulture degree combined with at least two years of horticultural work experience.
A minimum of two years working at and maintaining public gardens.
Experience in operating a variety of equipment, including assorted hand and power tools, chainsaws, electric and diesel gators, tractors, loaders, and dump trucks.
Experience and knowledge of pesticides, including the proper application of pesticides.
Possession of or ability to obtain a pesticide operator’s license.
Ability to regularly walk up and down hills and across uneven terrain.
Able to drag, lift and carry heavy debris and watering hoses and to load or unload heavy items from powered and hand operated carts.

All staff, volunteers, and contractors must be fully vaccinated against COVID-19.

Mount Vernon is dedicated to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. As an Equal Opportunity Employer, we are committed to building and retaining a team that represents a variety of skills, experiences and perspectives. All employment decisions are based on business needs, job requirements, performance, and qualifications without regard to race, religion or belief, national or ethnic origin, gender/sex (including pregnancy), age, physical, mental or sensory disability, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, marital or domestic partnership status, veteran and military status, family or parental status, or any other status protected under federal, state, or local law. Mount Vernon will not tolerate discrimination or harassment based on any of these characteristics.

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Landscape Gardener II