What are the responsibilities and job description for the Horticulturist position at Ruppert Companies?
Descripción
Horticulturist
Ruppert Landscape is a privately held commercial landscape maintenance and construction company based in Laytonsville, MD. With a multi-state presence and a small company feel, our mission is to provide opportunities for our people, take care of our customers, and be good stewards of the environment and our community.
Position Description:
The Horticulturist plays a key role in the care and maintenance of landscapes by directly tending to plant material, soil, and turf health. This is a hands-on position focused on applying horticultural knowledge in the field to ensure landscapes remain healthy, vibrant, and sustainable. The Horticulturist regularly inspects plant material, performs plant health care treatments, and assists with the proper installation and ongoing care of trees, shrubs, and flowers.
Responsibilities:
- Perform routine inspections of landscapes to monitor plant health, soil conditions, and irrigation efficiency.
- Diagnose pest, disease, and environmental issues affecting plant material, and apply appropriate treatments.
- Carry out horticultural tasks such as planting, pruning, fertilizing, mulching, weeding, watering, and soil amendment.
- Implement seasonal care programs, including dormant pruning, integrated pest management, fertilization, and turf/bed maintenance.
- Assist with the installation of trees, shrubs, perennials, and annuals, ensuring proper planting techniques.
- Maintain accurate records of treatments, care routines, and plant health observations.
- Operate and maintain horticultural tools and equipment safely and effectively.
- Support training of crew members on proper horticultural techniques and safe work practices.
- Stay current with regional plant material, sustainable horticultural practices, and seasonal care requirements.
Qualifications:
- Degree or certification in Horticulture, Plant Science, Landscape Management, or equivalent experience.
- Minimum of 2 years of hands-on horticultural or plant care experience.
- Strong knowledge of plant identification, soil science, and horticultural best practices.
- Ability to identify and treat insect, disease, and cultural plant health issues.
- Comfortable working outdoors year-round in varying weather conditions.
- Valid driver’s license with a clean record over the last three years.
What We Provide:
- Competitive salary with the opportunity for overtime
- Medical benefits with dental and vision
- Flexible Spending Account
- 401(k) plan
- Flexible work/life balance
- Family-oriented company culture
Ruppert Landscape is an Equal Opportunity and E-Verify Employer.