LANDSCAPE TECHNICIAN

8281B1

Pay Grade: 22 23

DEFINITION OF WORK

Summary

This is professionally supervised technical landscape work in the field of landscape architecture.

Work involves preparing landscape designs and specifications for the development of parks, recreational areas, highway beautification, erosion control, and other landscape projects. Work requires the application of technical skill toward the solution of landscape projects. In the field, employees provide technical guidance in the execution of landscape projects. Supervision may be exercised over maintenance workers and other non-professional personnel in the execution of landscape projects.

Standard Classification Factors

Supervision Received - LEVEL C: "Under direction…" Employees at this level usually receive a general outline of the work to be performed and are generally free to develop their own sequences and methods within the scope of established policies. New, unusual, or complex work situations are almost always referred to a superior for advice. Work is periodically checked for progress and conformance to established policies and requirements.

Difficulty - LEVEL C: Considerable… Duties which require a high degree of concentration because of the many factors which must be considered and weighed before a decision can be reached. Usually positions that require planning, developing, and coordinating programs and directing fairly large groups of people fall into this category.

Complexity - LEVEL C: Work is of a standardized nature that may involve a variety of duties. Analytical thought becomes more important at this level due to increased data and changing situations. Tasks usually have several steps, some of which may not be directly related. Alternatives may exist for processes or methods to be used in solving problems. Workers at this level exercise a moderate amount of independent judgment. Work is controlled by routine review and reporting to or consultation with supervisors. When guidelines exist at this level, they tend to be more complicated or technical in nature requiring careful interpretation.

Consequence of Actions or Decisions - LEVEL B: Consequences of actions or decisions at this level are minor as the work is normally reviewed regularly and errors are usually detected in following operations. Errors may be disruptive to co-workers or may cause minor inefficiency. Costs due to errors are minimal.

Contacts - LEVEL B: The purpose of the contact is to plan, coordinate and advise on work efforts, interpret guidelines or instructions, elicit opinions or give guidance on the basis of facts to resolve common issues or problems when the information is not sensitive in nature or the individuals or groups are working toward mutual goals and have basically cooperative attitudes. Well developed communication skills are required.

Physical Demands - LEVEL C: The work requires moderate physical exertion.

Environmental Conditions - LEVEL B: The work environment involves moderate hazards, risks or discomforts. Exposure to minor deviations from pleasant environmental conditions is normal. Minor to serious injuries are possible.

Supervision/Leadership - LEVEL D: Involves administrative supervision responsibility. As a "first line supervisor", the primary responsibility involves scheduling, supervising and evaluating employees who perform the same or similar work. Responsible for recommending hiring and disciplinary actions to a higher level of authority. As a "project manager" may direct the activities of project leaders to develop plans and criteria and to evaluate progress and results for one or more projects.

Distinguishing Features

Differs from the Landscape Architect I class which provides for professional work and may have final sign-off authority in the field of landscape architecture in developing designs and specifications for major landscape projects.

Differs from the Grounds Maintenance Supervisor II class in which the incumbents direct, on a daily basis, the duties required for the maintenance and renovation of grounds at a large facility.

EXAMPLES OF WORK PERFORMED

Prepares plans and specifications for picnic, camping, and other recreational areas, state institution grounds, highway safety rest areas, scenic overlooks, screening salvage yards, seeding and erosion control, and highway beautification projects.

Makes initial field surveys and studies.

Follows plans and specifications, inspects and directs the planting of landscape material associated with roadside improvement, beautification, and erosion control.

Supervises spraying activities for weed and insect control.

Supervises landscape improvement projects, the operation of greenhouses and nurseries, and the maintenance of grounds in a state institution.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, ABILITIES, AND SKILLS

Knowledge

Knowledge of irrigation systems design.

*Knowledge of the principles and practices of landscape architecture.

Knowledge of ground maintenance practices and principles.

Abilities

*Ability to prepare plans, specifications, and estimates for less complex landscaping projects.

Ability to supervise and direct non-professional personnel in the execution of landscape projects.

*Ability to express ideas effectively, orally and in writing.

Ability to use skill and originality in the design of landscape projects.

*Necessary at Entry

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:

Three years of experience in landscape, horticultural or a related field.  Education in landscape/horticultural may be substituted for experience as determined relevant by the agency.

NC:   06/93
REV: 12/95
REV: 10/98
REV: 02/00
REV: 08/05
REV: 06/08
REV: 06/10