Groundskeeper- Zoo

Norfolk, Virginia is America's most authentic and urban waterfront city. Home to the world's largest naval station and the business, arts, and cultural center of Coastal Virginia, Norfolk has been rated a top place to live, work, play, and raise a family by numerous publications. Working for the City of Norfolk is an opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of others. With our commitment to competitive pay and a strong retirement package, you can do good for your community and do well for yourself. Join a caring workplace that proudly celebrates uniqueness, authenticity, and a shared commitment to improving the lives of our residents.

The Virginia Zoological Park in Norfolk, Virginia is seeking to hire an experienced and professional Groundskeeper to maintain the appearance of the Zoo grounds. Work involves landscaping duties such as cutting grass, repairing damaged lawns, trees, and shrubs, and applying horticulture chemicals as well as securing areas for public safety in times of emergency.

Department Starting Hiring Salary: $40,688 Essential functions include but are not limited to:

• Maintains the grounds;
• Cleans and assists with landscaping by cleaning paths, mowing lawns, and trimming trees and shrubs;
• Operates chippers, blowers, stump grinders, and other groundskeeping equipment;
• Rakes leaves, sweeps & edges, prepares and plants flowerbeds, and seeds lawns;
• Cares for plants;
• Removes insects and litter from grounds and;
• Secures areas for public safety by clearing paths, walkways, and removing ice and snow as needed.

Work requires the ability to read and understand written instructions, to understand simple processes and the routine operation of machines. Level of knowledge equivalent to less than high school or equivalency.
Six (6) months of experience in greenhouse or landscaping or in a related field.

Preferred:
Two years of experience with horticulture or groundskeeping preferred.

Valid Driver's License: Class A or B Commercial Driver's License may be required depending upon area of assignment.

Registered Pesticide Technician (Category 60) required within six months of employment. CPR/First Aid Certification may be required depending upon area of assignment within six months of employment. Work location : Virginia Zoological Park, 3500 Granby Street, Norfolk 23504 Work hours: 40 hours a week worked over a 5-workday schedule; schedule may vary. Working weekends and holidays may be required. Signing Bonus: This position is eligible for a one-time $5,000 signing bonus. The signing bonus will be paid in two (2) increments: $2,500 upon completion of 60 days of employment, and $2,500 upon completion of your probationary period. To receive the signing bonus, you must be an active employee in good standing.