Landscape Specialist/Project Manager - Dordt University : Job Details

Job DescriptionJOB TITLE: Landscape Specialist/Project ManagerDEPARTMENT: Facilities & ServicesREPORTS TO: Director of Facilities & ServicesPURPOSE OF POSITION:Primarily responsible for planning and maintaining campus landscaping and common areas to university standards to emphasize curb appeal and safety. Responsible for the overall planning for projects related to landscaping and successful project completion.ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Perform and oversee landscape project work including irrigation, hardscapes, softscapes, and turf establishment after building construction.
• Work in collaboration with the VP of University Operations and the Director of Facilities & Services to create plans to renovate or install new landscapes and create hardscape and softscape designs for new buildings.
• Plans and directs the planting of trees, plants, and shrubbery.
• Utilize the campus master plan, new building blueprints, environmental reports, and the natural features of the sites to create the best plan for the university.
• Work with the Director and VP to ensure that the landscape designs and plans stay within budget and comply with state and local laws and regulations.
• Produce rough sketches that show the layout of buildings, walkways, trees, shrubs, and other elements that will impact the designs.
• Work closely with the turf specialist to:
• Create monthly and annual plans for required work that include both new turf/tree additions as well as the continued maintenance schedule and plan for the proper care of all campus grounds.
• Collaborate with others to determine which species of trees, grass, and other plants will work best in specific parts of campus.
• Perform routing and advanced landscape tasks such as pruning, plant installation, and pest management.
• Coordinate and execute campus snow removal.
• Lead and train less experienced landscape workers in procedures and techniques.
• Periodically inspect the sites during the construction process and throughout the year to ensure new plans are being followed and existing landscapes are being properly maintained.
• Create and maintain an inventory system for ordering supplies and equipment, as well as a maintenance and replacement schedule.
• Receive work orders and prepare work schedules for the grounds team and student employees according to the nature of the job.
• Participate in special events and seasonal tasks such as snow and ice removal.
• Perform other duties as required.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:

• A clear understanding and commitment to the Reformed perspective and mission of Dordt University and the ability to clearly articulate and communicate the mission effectively.
• Ability to express an active Christian commitment, which shall include identification with a local organized church that holds to beliefs that are consistent with the mission of the university.
• Prospective members of the Dordt University community are expected to agree with its sexuality, gender identity, and sexual conduct policy which can be found on the DU website (contact the HR Office if you need additional information).
• Knowledge of the methods and techniques used in landscaping and grounds maintenance.
• A high school diploma is required and 3-5 years of landscaping, grounds maintenance, or an equivalent combination of education and related experience is desired.
• Strong organizational and short and long-term planning skills are required.
• Demonstrated leadership skills are necessary to lead student teams and possibly other staff members.
• Demonstrated experience in landscape design and maintenance is preferred.
• Highly organized, and effective at planning, scheduling, and managing a team.
• Muist be a team player with a can do attitude.
• Must be meticulous with strong attention to detail.
• Must have a strong work ethic and be a servant-leader, teaching students and others to take pride in our work.
• Verbal communication and leadership skills sufficient to oversee a group of student employees.
• Skills necessary for completing and interpreting landscape drawings and sprinkler system drawings.
• Ability to operate, maintain, and repair ground equipment - mowers, loaders, lawn equipment, etc. The ability to weld is an asset.
• Coordination skills necessary for organizing and maintaining records.
• Physical skills are necessary for lifting: occasionally up to 75 lbs (such as retaining wall blocks), more frequently lifting 35-50 pounds (such as fertilizer bags).
• Skill in operating necessary equipment (involving frequent twisting and turning motions involving the back, head, and neck).
• Must be able to work well both independently and as part of a team.
• Must have a valid Iowa driver's license.