Turf/Plant Healthcare Specialist

Appalachian State University

$37,932 - $45,299

United States, North Carolina, Boone

287 Rivers Street (Show on map)

Apr 16, 2025

Position Summary Information

Classification Title	Horticultural Specialist
Working Title	Turf/Plant Healthcare Specialist
Location	Boone, NC
Job Category	8
Position Number	032281
Department	Facilities Operations - Landscape Services - 410500
Minimum Qualifications	Graduation from high school and some experience in horticultural work; or an equivalent combination of training and experience. Degrees must be received from appropriately accredited institutions. Special Note: This is a generalized representation of positions in this class and is not intended to identify essential functions per ADA. Examples of work are primarily essential functions of the majority of positions, but may not be applicable to all positions.
License/Certification Required	North Carolina Pesticide License may be required and can be obtained within six (6) months of employment. Must possess a valid Commercial Driver's License or must be able to obtain one within six (6) months of employment.
Essential Job Functions	This position is responsible for assisting in the implementation of Appalachian State University's Landscape Services Integrated Pest Management Program ( IPM) for the entire campus. These duties include, but are not limited to: Scouting for pest and pathogens within turf and ornamentals The collection of plant and soil samples that are then sent to the North Carolina Extension Service when a pest or pathogen cannot be identified or a soil analysis is required. One must have an advanced understanding of the life cycles of pest and pathogens, and their treatment options. This position is also responsible for the chemical removal of weeds in campus turf grass. Assist with the upkeep of athletic field turf on a limited basis. Wear proper PPE as required by the task on a given day. At times coordinate special request projects and other times assist with special request. Detailed records must be properly maintained as required by North Carolina State law. The use of Microsoft Excel, Word, e-mail and the Internet are a mandatory component of this position. This position requires the ability to operate dump trucks, backhoes, sprayers and spreaders, tractors and all associated tools. Maintain vehicles and equipment in good operating condition also perform minor repairs as needed. Responsible for snow removal in assigned area of campus by whatever means necessary, such as shovel, tractor and blade, blower, etc. Assist with other landscape duties as requested or required. This position will work closely with other specialists ( ie. Arborist, Athletics Facilities Specialist) in a team environment to assist one another as needed. This position may at times be asked to assist other landscape services divisions with special requests, including campus moves, waste management needs, and grounds maintenance. Safety practices and procedures are required. Must obtain ISA certification NCDA &CS Public Pesticide Applicator's License within the first 12 months of employment if candidate does not have a current certification.
Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities Required for this Position	Considerable knowledge of Horticulture and turf grass management. Position oversees the healthcare of campus lawns and performs most pesticide applications. Possess some computer knowledge and have the ability to use internet, email, Microsoft Word and Excel. The ability to maintain detailed records and daily maintenance logs as required. Verbal and written communication skills are essential. Ability to operate university owned vehicles with a valid driver's license.
Preferred Qualifications	Four-year degree in Horticulture, Arboriculture, ISA Certified Arborist Certificate, extensive knowledge of aerobic composting. Certificate from US Composting Council Compost Operations Training Course, and a current CDL License.
Type of Position	Permanent Full-Time
Staff/Non-Faculty	Staff/Non-Faculty
Appointment Type	1.0
Work Schedule/Hours	6:00 am - 3:00 pm; Monday through Friday. Weekend and night shift work may be required at times to accomplish duties that are assigned. Position is subject to call back on evenings and weekends should emergencies occur. This position will be expected to work, as needed, in the event of staffing shortages, football and/or other events on campus that require recycling, composting or Landscape Service's needs. This position is considered MANDATORY and is expected to be available to work during university adverse weather conditions, emergencies and closures.
Number of Hours Per Week	40
Number of Months Per Year	12
Mandatory Staff	Yes
Physical Demands of Position	The amount of required daily physical effort is considerable. This person must be able to perform the following task: climbing, bending, carrying, stooping, lifting, shoveling, and walking for extended periods. This employee may be required to lift 100lbs from time to time. Position is also exposed to extreme hot and cold conditions while performing the assigned task.
Overall Competency Level	Advanced
Salary Grade Equivalency
Salary Range
Anticipated Hiring Range	$37,932 - $45,299
Required Functional Competencies to Successfully Perform Job Duties.	Knowledge-Technical: Safely and skillfully operates specialized vehicles and/or equipment in the performance of recurring tasks with limited variety and established parameters. Examples of vehicles and/or equipment operated at the Journey level may include but are not limited to: tractor trailer, bulldozer, backhoe, hydrogeological drilling equipment. Or, safely and skillfully operates standard vehicles and/or equipment (as noted at the Contributing level) in combination with considerable independence and variation in assignments, requiring a good understanding of organizational objectives. Plan and decide on best routes and schedules according to broad guidelines/parameters. Make decisions concerning weight and load distribution of cargo. Accurately maintain records related to load weight specifications, cargo inventory, custody of court-secured individuals, route reports, and vehicle/equipment maintenance. Performs minor preventive maintenance. Troubleshoots equipment/mechanical problems and recognizes cause of problems. Client/Customer Service: Develops and maintains effective working relationships both within and outside of immediate work unit. Deals calmly and professionally with difficult situations or passengers and handles complaints respectfully. Receives and gives feedback calmly and professionally. Safety and Health Compliance: Identifies and resolves potential safety problems and unsafe work practices; warns others of potential hazards. Shows other employees safe ways to perform job tasks or use of equipment. Informs employees of safety information. Incorporates accident prevention and corrective measures in all activities. Regularly assesses safety conditions; participates in safety inspections and drills; identifies potential hazards; and resolves problems. Demonstrates complete knowledge of established safety policies and procedures and applies to work activities. Responds to emergency situations following appropriate procedures.

Pay will be commensurate with applicant competencies, budget, equity and market considerations.

Posting Details Information

Posting Date	04/16/2025
Closing Date	04/23/2025
Competency Level Statement	If no applicants apply who meet the required competencies, then management may consider other applicants at a lower competency level.
Special Instructions to Applicants	Please list a minimum of 3 professional references in the application. Appalachian State University Benefits Information: https://hr.appstate.edu/hr-services/benefits Finalist will be subject to a Criminal Background Check. Applicant must have a valid driver's license to be considered.
Search Chair Name	Chris Erickson
Search Chair Email	ericksoncd@appstate.edu
Applicant Pool Preference	External (Post on the Web)

Departmental Information

Quick Link	https://appstate.peopleadmin.com/postings/50520
Posting Number	201502862P