HPARD seeks Horticulturist

DIVISION: GREENSPACE MANAGEMENT
SECTION: NATURAL RESOURCE SECTION
WORKDAYS & HOURS: M – F, 6:30 a.m. – 3 p.m.* (Subject to change)DESCRIPTION OF DUTIES/ESSENTIAL FUNCTION 
The Houston Parks and Recreation Department is dedicated to building a sustainable community and enhancing the quality of urban life by providing safe well-maintained parks and offering affordable programming for our community. To achieve this mission, HPARD is seeking a Horticulturist to join its Greenspace Division team.

This position is responsible for: 

• Develops and implements year-round production schedules.
• Participates in seed collection activities for plant propagation.
• Plans, leads, and helps to perform maintenance activities for greenhouses and equipment. 
• Procures horticulture supplies and plant materials. 
• Works with field personnel to review planting plans and provide updates on plant and insect problems. 
• Delivers group presentations to garden clubs and other civic or social organizations, addressing citywide horticulture programs. 
• Oversees volunteers, community service, and interns during regularly scheduled workdays and special events.
• Conducts invasive species control through manual and chemical methods in greenhouses and restoration sites. 
• Participates in prairie and tree planting projects in park sites.

WORKING CONDITIONS
There are routine discomforts from exposure to moderate heat, cold, moisture/wetness, and unpleasant air conditions. The position may involve routine exposure to soiled materials and light chemical substances such as cleaning solutions. The position occasionally requires stooping or bending. Occasional very light lifting, such as three or four reams of papers or books (up to 20 pounds or an equivalent weight) may be required.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENTS 
An Associate’s degree in Horticulture or a related field is required.
 
EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS

Two years of experience in horticultural or nursery operations are required.
LICENSE REQUIREMENTS
None

Texas Department of Agricultural or Structural pest control license required or must be obtained within 6 months of date of hire.

PREFERENCES

Preference will be given to applicants who have a valid Texas Driver’s License.
 
**Eligible veteran applicants provided such persons possess the qualifications necessary for competent discharge of the duties involved in the position applied for, such persons are among the most qualified candidates for the position, and all other factors in accordance with Executive Order 1-6.**
 

GENERAL INFORMATION

SELECTION/SKILLS TESTS REQUIRED
The selection process will involve application review and/or interview.  Department may administer skills assessment test.
 
SAFETY IMPACT POSITION   Yes
This position is subject to random drug testing and if a promotional position, candidate must pass an assignment drug test.
 
SALARY INFORMATION
Factors used in determining the salary offered include the candidate’s qualifications as well as the pay rates of other employees in this classification.

Pay Grade 18

APPLICATION PROCEDURES
Only online applications will be accepted for this City of Houston job and must be received by the Human Resources Department during posting opening and closing dates shown. Applications must be submitted online at: www.houstontx.gov.

To view your detailed application status, please log-in to your online profile by visiting: http://agency.governmentjobs.com/houston/default.cfm or call 832-395-7091.

If you need special services or accommodations, call 832.395.7091. (TTY 7-1-1).

If you need login assistance or technical support call 855-524-5627.

Due to the high volume of applications received, the Hiring Department will contact you directly, should you be selected to advance in our recruitment process.

All new and rehires must pass a pre-employment drug test and are subject to a physical examination and verification of information provided.

EOE Equal Opportunity Employer
The City of Houston is committed to recruiting and retaining a diverse workforce and providing a work environment that is free from discrimination and harassment based upon any legally protected status or protected characteristic, including but not limited to an individual’s sex, race, color, ethnicity, national origin, age, religion, disability, sexual orientation, genetic information, veteran status, gender identity, or pregnancy.