The Lead Horticulturist is responsible for overseeing the care, health, and appearance of drought-tolerant native desert ornamental plants, trees, shrubs, and landscaped areas throughout the golf course property. This role reports to and supports the Golf Course Superintendent and Director of Agronomy by planning and implementing horticultural practices that enhance the aesthetic quality of the course while promoting plant health and sustainability. The Lead Horticulturist provides guidance to maintenance staff and ensures proper planting, pruning, pest management, and landscape maintenance.
Experience, Education, and Skills Required:
- Advanced knowledge of horticulture, plant identification, soil health, landscape maintenance practices, and the knowledge of or desire to learn about drought-tolerant native desert planting.
- 5+ years of landscape or horticultural experience, strong knowledge of ornamental plants, turf care, bed maintenance, and irrigation. Certificate or Degree in Horticulture preferred.
- Strong ability to identify plant diseases, pests, and nutrient deficiencies.
- Familiarity and comfortability with landscape equipment and horticultural tools.
- Strong attention to detail and commitment to maintaining high landscape standards.
- Excellent oral and written communication skills
- Ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions.
- Must have a valid driver’s license and reliable transportation.
- Experience in golf course maintenance, horticulture, landscaping, or nursery work required.
- Positive attitude, professionalism, and ability to work in a team-oriented environment.
Essential Responsibilities:
- Oversees and assists the maintenance, installation, and care of landscape areas including trees, flower beds, shrubs, groundcover, mulch, and irrigation components across the golf course property.
- Applies knowledge of drought‑tolerant native desert plant species by maintaining appropriate plant materials and implementing sustainable horticultural practices that support a water‑efficient landscape across the property.
- Supervises all landscape laborers and equipment operators, providing daily direction and support.
- Develops and implements integrated pest management practices when necessary.
- Trains crew in proper horticultural practices, plant care, pruning techniques, and equipment use.
- Ensures safe and proper use of fertilizers, pesticides, and horticultural equipment.
- Monitor plant health and identify issues related to pests, diseases, nutrient deficiencies, or environmental stress.
- Applies and tracks pesticide and fertilizer usage in accordance with regulatory requirements.
- Maintains equipment inventories and communicates repair or replacement needs to the equipment manager.
- Ensures clubhouse surroundings and course entryways reflect exceptional visual standards.
- Coordinate with Golf Course Superintendent to maintain landscape aesthetics consistent with course standards.
Physical Requirements:
- Walking, driving, lifting 50 lbs., and performing repetitive motion.
- Outdoors in all weather conditions.
- Standing, lifting, bending, kneeling, walking for extended periods.
- Exposure to lawn equipment, hand tools, and motorized carts.
- Exposure to noise, dust, grease, uneven terrain, and moving equipment.
Scheduling:
The Lead Horticulturist must be available for early mornings, weekends, and overtime hours as required by weather conditions or treatment timing.
