Position Classification Description

Position Class Code / Title: W4002 / Master Gardener
Recruitment Tier: Tier 1
FLSA: Non-Exempt
Grade: 07

This is a description of a Staff Position Classification. It is not an announcement of a position opening. To view descriptions of current openings, please go to UNMJobs and Search Postings to view positions that are currently accepting applications.

The following statements are intended to describe, in broad terms, the general functions and responsibility levels characteristic of positions assigned to this classification. They should not be viewed as an exhaustive list of the specific duties and prerequisites applicable to individual positions that have been so classified.

Summary

Plants, fertilizes, applies chemicals, waters, performs diagnosis, treats, and prunes all woody and herbaceous plants. Implements detailed landscape plans.

Duties and Responsibilities

  1. Plants, transplants, fertilizes, applies chemicals, waters, prunes, and weeds flower beds and plant areas.
  2. Oversees the work of employees in supporting roles, including assigning workload and monitoring employee performance.
  3. Maintains flowers, bushes, trees, and shrubs.
  4. Recognizes disease and insect problems of woody and herbaceous plants and performs pest control operations.
  5. Plants and propagates bedding plants.
  6. Maintains pesticide application records, employee timesheets, and other records as assigned.
  7. Operates motor vehicles to transport materials and equipment.
  8. Performs snow removal, as required.
  9. Ensures proper care in the use and maintenance of equipment and supplies; promotes continuous improvement of workplace safety and environmental practices.
  10. Irrigates, mows, rakes, and trims lawns and/or athletic fields.
  11. Performs miscellaneous job-related duties as assigned.

Minimum Job Requirements

  • High school diploma or GED; at least 1 year of experience directly related to the duties and responsibilities specified. Certification/Licensure: State of New Mexico Pesticide License in Ornamental and Turf Pest Control, category 3A and 3B must be obtained within 6 months of hire.
  • Completed degree(s) from an accredited institution that are above the minimum education requirement may be substituted for experience on a year for year basis.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Required

  • Knowledge of horticulture methods and materials, landscaping and cultivation of trees and woody plants.
  • Records maintenance skills.
  • Ability to understand and follow specific instructions and procedures.
  • Ability to drive motor vehicles.
  • Ability to use hand and power tools applicable to trade.
  • Ability to perform grounds maintenance tasks.
  • Knowledge of fertilizer and/or pesticide applications.
  • Ability to lead and train employees, to include organizing, prioritizing, and scheduling work assignments.
  • Ability to operate and maintain various pest control equipment.
  • Ability to read, understand, follow, and enforce safety procedures.
  • Ability to foster a cooperative work environment.
  • Knowledge of landscape maintenance methods, techniques, and equipment.

Distinguishing Characteristics

    Position requires: a) Recognizing disease and pest problems in vegetation; b) Maintaining pesticide application records; c) leading and guiding the work of lower-level employees, including assignment of work and monitoring the completion of work assignments; d) State of New Mexico Pesticide License in Ornamental and Turf Pest Control, category 3A and 3B within 6 months of hire.

Conditions of Employment

  • Possession of a valid New Mexico driver's license is a requirement for this job.
  • Successful candidate must submit to post-offer, pre-employment physical examination and medical history check.
  • Must obtain State of NM 3A License - Ornamental and Turf Pest Control: Insecticides and State of NM 3B License - Ornamental and Turf Pest Control:Herbicides within 6 months from date of hire.
  • Employees who provide services or work in patient care or clinical areas are required to be in compliance with the University's influenza vaccination requirement.
  • All regular, non-temporary positions assigned to this classification are represented by a labor union and subject to the terms and conditions of the CWA Collective Bargaining Agreement.

Working Conditions and Physical Effort

  • Work involves almost constant exposure to unusual elements, such as extreme temperatures, toxic chemicals, biohazardous materials, dirt, dust, fumes, smoke, and/or loud noises.
  • Extensive physical activity. Requires strenuous physical work; heavy lifting, pushing, or pulling required of objects over 50 pounds.
  • Work environment involves some exposure to hazards or physical risks, which require following basic safety precautions.

The University of New Mexico provides all training required by OSHA to ensure employee safety.

Revised Date: 05/04/2021