Horticulture Technician

Are you looking for a rewarding career that will let you give back to your community? NC State Extension extends research-based knowledge to all North Carolinians, helping them transform science into everyday solutions that improve their lives and grow our state. We are the model of excellence in non-formal, research-based education that advances agriculture, the environment, human health and well-being, youth and communities, while creating prosperity for all North Carolinians.

While our employees are located in NC County offices, they reap the benefits of employment at NC State University. Some of our benefits include:

* Paid time off

* Paid tuition

* Health Insurance

* Flexible Scheduling

* Retirement Savings

* Supplemental Benefits Programs

* WolfPerks!

You Belong Here! At NC State, our goal is for all employees to reach their fullest potential at work. As you consider this opportunity, we encourage you to review our Employee Value Proposition ( https://news.hr.ncsu.edu/you-belong-here/) and learn more about what makes NC State the best place to learn and work for everyone.

Under the supervision of the New Hanover County Extension Director/Arboretum Director in cooperation with New Hanover County Grounds Maintenance Supervisor, the Extension Agriculture Technician (Ag Tech) will serve with the grounds maintenance team, performing skilled work in the maintenance and improvement of the New Hanover County Arboretum/Display Garden.

Primary Function of Organizational Unit
North Carolina Cooperative Extension gives our residents easy access to the resource sand expertise of NC State University and NC A&T State University. Through educational programs, publications and events, Cooperative Extension agents deliver unbiased, research-based information to North Carolina citizens. New Hanover County is a vibrant, prosperous and diverse coastal community committed to building a sustainable future for generations to come. For more information about the county go to https://www.nhcgov.com/ For more information about the NCCE New Hanover County Center, see:https://newhanover.ces.ncsu.edu/

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.

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.

General knowledge of tools and supplies used in soil and water management.
Ability to use common garden machines, including power tools, tractors, blowers, chainsaws, 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.

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.

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

NC State University is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive equal opportunities for employment without regard to age, color, disability, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, and veteran status. The University encourages all qualified applicants, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities, to apply. Individuals with disabilities requiring disability-related accommodations in the application and interview process are welcome to contact 919-513-0574 to speak with a representative of the Office of Equal Opportunity.

If you have general questions about the application process, you may contact Human Resources at (919) 515-2135 or workatncstate@ncsu.edu.

Final candidates are subject to criminal & sex offender background checks. Some vacancies also require credit or motor vehicle checks. Degree(s) must be obtained prior to start date in order to meet qualifications and receive credit.

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