Why is this job crazy hot?
In 2007 the Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy Greenway opened to the public as the long-awaited benefit of Boston’s mega-project, the Central Artery/Tunnel Project, also known as the “The Big Dig”. Families, workers and visitors can now walk through the Greenway’s plazas, enjoy its gardens and gaze at the changing fountain displays. With the demolition of the overhead highway that stood for fifty years, neighborhoods are being physically and psychologically rejoined to one another, to downtown, and to Boston.
The Greenway encompasses linked parks, plazas and green space that extend for more than a mile through downtown. Unified by a grand, tree-lined boulevard, Chinatown Park to North End totals about eight acres. Other open space/garden parcels bring the total area to approximately 14 acres.
Job description:
Job Description
This position reports to the Superintendent of Horticulture and the primary task areas are outlined below:
· Recognize a wide variety of plant materials and perform best horticulture practices for pruning and cultivation requirements in an urban park setting.
· Ability to study and facilitate an organic landscape program established by the Conservancy to manage the Greenway.
· Identify current pest and disease issues and respond with best health care practices using sustainable/organic methods of treatment.
· Operate and maintain tools and equipment properly to complete the required maintenance tasks.
· Work outside in a variety of weather year-round conditions, kneel or stand for extended periods of time, and lift 25 lbs.
· Train, oversee, and coordinate work duties of apprentices, interns, and volunteers. Includes training in all above areas in proper equipment/tool operation, plant care, and assistance in identification, plus assisting with evaluation of student performance.
· Troubleshoot, develop and implement, in conjunction with Conservancy staff and consultants, workable and design sensitive solutions for park horticultural problems which may emerge during the operation of the parks.
· Be involved with the planning and development of the Horticulture Department’s goals and project priorities for the season.
· Be available to assist as assigned to work with various departments such as Design & Planning, Education & Programming, Development, Business, and Administration.
Qualifications
· Minimum 1-2 years horticulture field experience and experience working with youth
· Good interpersonal communication and some computer proficiency
· Must be able to learn how to operate all tolls, vehicles and equipment for use by the horticulture group
· Valid US driver’s license