Duties and Responsibilities:

The Ag Tech is a member of the staff of North Carolina State University and will have the primary responsibility of maintenance and upkeep of the Arboretum grounds.

Other Work/Responsibilities:

The Ag Tech is a member of the staff of North Carolina State University and will have the primary responsibility of maintenance and upkeep of the Arboretum grounds.

This includes but is not limited to horticulture, landscape construction, irrigation installation and maintenance, waste management, and special event preparations. This position also requires cooperation with New Hanover County to support the mission of both North Carolina Cooperative Extension and New Hanover County.

Duties include:

- Operate small to medium-sized equipment including tractors, mowers, chain saws, blowers, edgers and trimmers.

- Repair and install irrigation systems.

- Install decorative retaining walls, paver patios/walkways and privacy fencing.

- Repair, install and maintain water features/fountains/ponds.

- Assist in the construction of new garden areas.

- Maintain Arboretum service area including management of vegetative and other debris, construction materials and stored products.

Other duties in support of the total Cooperative Extension/Arboretum program include:

- Assisting with setup of educational and social functions in the Extension auditorium and within the Display Garden.

- Support Friends of the Arboretum/Master Gardener Association with projects and educational/social/fund raising activities.

- Instruct and manage community service workers.

- Assist/manage volunteers working in the Display Garden including but not limited to recurring groups on Tuesdays and Thursdays.

- Other duties as required and assigned.

Work Schedule:

Sunday through Thursday, between 7am and 6pm, 30 hours a week; schedule flexibility is possible with advance notice.

Minimum Experience/Education:

The minimum requirement for employment with the North Carolina Cooperative Extension (NCCE) is a high-school diploma or equivalent. Advanced training in related fields is preferred.

Department Required Skills:

General knowledge of tools and supplies used in soil and water management.

Ability to use common garden machines, including power tools, tractors, blowers, chain saws, etc.

Ability to recognize types of soil and to determine soil content and suitability for various uses.

Ability to exercise considerable independent judgment.

Ability to exercise considerable tact and courtesy in contact with Extension volunteers and the general public.

Ability to perform rigorous outdoor work in various types of weather.

Ability to perform physical labor as necessitated by work assignments.

Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with diverse populations as necessitated by work assignments.

Botanical knowledge, complemented by horticultural understanding and experience with horticultural practice is required, especially with turf and ornamental tree/shrub care.

Familiar with a subtropical (Zone 8a) climate zone.

Proficient with computers to use email, browse internet, and create/edit documents.

Experience working with and/or managing volunteers is preferred.

Must be able to lift and carry heavy objects up to 30 pounds.

Demonstrated ability and willingness to work as a team a must.

Demonstrated ability to work independently.

Strong and effective oral communication skills.

Preferred Years Experience, Skills, Training, Education:

Training and/or experience which provides the required knowledge, skills and abilities. Strong familiarity with conservation best practices within the parameters of a public botanical garden strongly preferred.

Required License or Certification:

Possession of a valid North Carolina driver’s license.Certification as a Licensed Pest Control applicator is required within 6 months of hire.

Anticipated Hiring Range:

$24,422 / 30 hr week

New Hanover County Arboretum

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Cooperative Extension Agriculture Technician