Floriculturist Apprentice

This position is covered by the collective bargaining agreement between the Chicago Park District and the International Brotherhood of Teamsters Union Local 703. Pursuant to the collective bargaining agreement, the District will exhaust internal eligible applicants prior to considering external applicants. The District is assembling a list of qualified candidates for this position that will be considered should the position not be filled with internal eligible applicants.

Title: Floriculturist Apprentice

CHARACTERISTICS OF THE CLASS: Under direct supervision, assists in the propagation and maintenance of all of horticultural plant materials in Park District facilities such as conservatories, propagating houses, nurseries and other indoor and outdoor floral areas. Performs related duties as required.

EXAMPLE OF DUTIES:

• Follows specific instructions in the routine maintenance of plant life in Park District facilities. 
• Prunes and trims plants to specific specimens as instructed. 
• Assists in preparing, transplanting and caring for all types of horticultural plant materials. 
• Assists in cultivating and watering plants in cold frames, propagating benches, outdoor beds or greenhouses. 
• Mixes soil for use in planting. 
• Operates any mechanical or power-driven apparatus or equipment essential to the performance of the duties of this position.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

Training and Experience: Graduation from High School or the equivalent (GED) is recommended. Experience performing nursery duties is desirable.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities: Skill in the safe operation of equipment and machinery used in floriculture work. Ability to follow written and oral instructions. Willingness and ability to learn how to maintain, cultivate, propagate and prune plant material. Ability to perform manual labor related to the duties of a floriculturist as required.

BENEFITS: As a full-time Chicago Park District employee in a position covered by the District’s Agreement with Local 703, eligible employees receive a comprehensive benefits package including:  

• Competitive Group Insurance benefits including health, life, dental and vision plans. 
• 13-20 days of paid vacation time annually (13 days for first year of employment). 
• 4 paid personal days per year. 
• 13 paid holidays per year. 
• Pension plan through the Park Employees' and Retirement Board Employees' Annuity and Benefit Fund, a system covered by the State of Illinois' Reciprocal Act. 
• Deferred Compensation Program – voluntary supplemental retirement plan. 
• Optional pre-tax programs – Transit  
• Federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program eligibility. 
• Free Admission to most Chicago museums. 

Union: Local 703                             FLSA: Non-Exempt                            Career Service                   EEO: Service/Maintenance

Rate of Pay: $65,395.39 / annually