Washington Park Arboretum Grounds Supervisor (Fixed Duration)

Job Description

The University of Washington Botanic Gardens (UWBG) has an outstanding opportunity for a Grounds Supervisor 1 at the Washington Park Arboretum. UWBG is comprised of two sites: the Washington Park Arboretum and the Center for Urban Horticulture. This is a fixed duration position that will end on 12/31/2026.

The 230-acre Arboretum includes a vibrant collection of more than 40,000 plants from around the world with trails to explore, educational programs for youth to adults, and respite for all. It is managed, maintained and developed by a curator and a team of 13 horticulturist, of which 8 currently report to this position. Our goal is to sustain managed to natural ecosystems and the human spirit through plant research, display, and education.

Under the general direction of the Washington Park Arboretum Manager of Horticulture, the Grounds Supervisor is responsible for supervising horticulture staff through the following responsibilities.

Leadership, Supervision, and Coordination (75%)

• Supervise horticulturists and horticulture interns.
• Assist with hiring and conduct onboarding of new staff.
• Coordinate with Manager of Horticulture in following a horticulture work plan.
• Assign work, check in with each staff regularly, and conduct annual performance evaluations.
• Lead biweekly staff group projects.
• Lead horticulture staff with larger projects and plantings as assigned by supervisor.
• Lead volunteers and volunteer groups in horticulture and restoration projects.
• Identify areas of the park that need attention and strategize how to get the work done, including delegating work to horticulture staff.
• Enforce all safety rules and regulations.
• Conduct training for staff, interns and volunteers in horticulture, equipment usage and maintenance, and safety topics.

• Serve on the Operations Committee as well as Safety Committee(s) as needed.
• Coordinate with Fiddleheads staff regarding work needed for classroom maintenance and projects.
• Coordinate with Volunteer Programs Manager regarding work for volunteer events.
• Coordinate work with Seattle Parks Department Senior Gardener and crew.

Equipment and Tool Maintenance (10%)

• Coordinate routine maintenance on utility vehicle fleet and specialized equipment.
• Research and order supplies and equipment needed for operations in coordination with Manager of Horticulture.
• Keep records of equipment maintenance in coordination with Manager of Horticulture.
• Direct the installation and/or repair of sprinkler systems.

Communications, Record keeping, and Administrative Tasks (15%)

• Submit reports for collection plants, including planting reports, dead reports, and condition reports.
• Assist direct reports in record keeping.
• Maintain daily email correspondence.
• Provide clear oral and written communication with staff, supervisors and community partners.
• Occasionally lead tours of collections, gardens and operations for donors, partners and special interest groups as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

Two years of college training in botany, horticulture, landscape, forestry, or allied field AND two years of experience in grounds maintenance, nursery, parks, or related activity; at least one year of which must have been lead.

Equivalent education and/or experience may substitute for minimum qualifications except when there are legal requirements, such as a license, certification, and/or registration.

Additional Requirements

Possession of a Washington State Public Operators Pesticide Control License (may be obtained within first 6 months of employment).

Desired

• Demonstrated successful ability in taking direction, working well with others and as a leader of a team.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills and high emotional intelligence.
• Knowledge and practical experience with WISHA (Washington Industrial Safety & Health Act) and OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Act) regulations.
• Demonstrated proficiency with standard productivity software including Microsoft Office Suite or equivalent products.
• Comfort interacting with the public.
• Experience safely operating and maintaining horticultural equipment including utility vehicles, tractors, mowers, trimmers, blowers.
• Experience operating and maintaining irrigation systems.
• A college degree in horticulture or related field.

Conditions of Employment:

• May be required to accept variable work shift, including occasional weekend work.
• Possession of a valid Washington State driver’s license.
• Work may require access to confined spaces and heights using approved safety precautions.
• Ability to lift and move heavy material may be required.
• Must be able to work outside in all weather conditions.
• Approved footwear must be provided at the employee’s expense and worn on the job.
• Ability to work with hazardous materials such as bleach, gasoline, pesticides, and motor oil.
• Regular and predictable attendance is required.

Compensation, Benefits and Position Details

Pay Range Minimum:

Pay Range Maximum:

Other Compensation:

Benefits:

Shift:

Temporary or Regular?

FTE (Full-Time Equivalent):

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About the UW

Working at the University of Washington provides a unique opportunity to change lives – on our campuses, in our state and around the world.

UW employees bring their boundless energy, creative problem-solving skills and dedication to building stronger minds and a healthier world. In return, they enjoy outstanding benefits, opportunities for professional growth and the chance to work in an environment known for its diversity, intellectual excitement, artistic pursuits and natural beauty.

Our Commitment

The University of Washington is committed to fostering an inclusive, respectful and welcoming community for all. As an equal opportunity employer, the University considers applicants for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, citizenship, sex, pregnancy, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic information, disability, or veteran status consistent with UW Executive Order No. 81 .

To request disability accommodation in the application process, contact the Disability Services Office at 206-543-6450 or dso@uw.edu .

Applicants considered for this position will be required to disclose if they are the subject of any substantiated findings or current investigations related to sexual misconduct at their current employment and past employment. Disclosure is required under Washington state law .