Gardener

The VerdeGo Gardener plays a vital role in maintaining the beauty health and guest experience of The Riverfront Esplanade. This position is responsible for the care and stewardship of diverse plantings across the waterfront park including ornamental gardens native plant areas shade gardens turf areas and specialty landscape zones. The ideal candidate understands proper pruning techniques plant identification fertilization and pest management-ensuring the Esplanade remains an exceptional botanical and recreational environment for the community.

K e y Responsibilities

P l a n t Care & Pruning

Perform proper pruning on shrubs small trees ornamentals perennials and grasses to maintain health and visual appeal.

Follow species-specific pruning guidelines especially for native and coastal-resilient plants used throughout the Esplanade.

Assist in seasonal cutbacks deadheading thinning and shaping of plant material.

P l a n t Identification & Garden Stewardship

Identify a wide variety of Florida-friendly native and ornamental plants featured in the

Esplanades design.

Monitor plant beds bioswales pollinator gardens and specialty planted zones for health and maintenance needs.

Install transplant and remove plant material as directed by the Horticulture team.

F er t ilization & Soil Health

Apply fertilizers compost and soil amendments according to horticulture standards and environmental regulations.

Understand plant-specific nutrient needs and utilize soil test data where applicable.

Support sustainable soil management practices to protect the Halifax River waterfront.

P e s t & D i sea s e Management (1PM)

Identify pests beneficial insects fungal diseases and environmental plant stresses.

Implement Integrated Pest Management strategies prioritizing non-chemical methods.

Safely apply treatments (organic or chemical) according to policies and Florida regulatory requirements.

G ro und s Maintenance & F a c ility Support

Maintain pathways plant beds irrigation zones and landscape features throughout the

Esplanade.

Operate and care for horticultural tools mowers blowers trimmers edgers and irrigation equipment.

Assist with large events by preparing landscaped areas and ensuring gardens remain clean and welcoming.

Participate in storm prep and post-storm cleanup efforts common to coastal environments.

Q u a li fi c a t i o n s

R e q u i re d

Strong knowledge of plant pruning methods and landscape horticulture.

Ability to identify common Florida plants and landscape species.

Understanding of fertilization techniques soil health and nutrient management.

Familiarity with pest and disease identification and appropriate treatments.

Ability to work outdoors year-round in Florida weather.

Able to lift 40 lbs bend stoop walk long distances and perform physically demanding tasks.

Must be available for weekend work.

P r e f e rr e d

Experience working in parks botanical gardens or public outdoor spaces.

Knowledge of coastal Florida native plants and pollinator-friendly species.

FNGLA FCHP pesticide applicator license or other horticultural certifications.

Experience with irrigation maintenance and water-efficient landscaping.

K e y Competencies

Attention to detail and pride in workmanship

Strong communication and teamwork

Problem-solving and proactive plant care

Reliable punctual and safety-conscious

Passion for gardening sustainability and public spaces

Key Skills

Hospitality Management,Bakery & Pastry,Construction Equipment,Environment Health And Safety,Arbitration

Employment Type : Full Time

Experience : years

Vacancy : 1