Gardener

Summary The Smithsonian Institution is the world’s largest museum, education, and research complex, with 21 museums and the National Zoo. This position is located within the National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute (NZCBI) at the Smithsonian Institution (SI) in Washington, DC.  NZCBI plays a leading role in SI’s global efforts to save wildlife species from extinction and to train future generations of conservationists.  Learn more about this agency Duties The Gardener will collaborate with staff, interns, and volunteers to care for and enhance the horticultural displays and grounds at the National Zoological Park. In this position, you will: Assist with preparing maintenance schedules for tree, shrubs, perennial and annual plantings. Ensures proper pruning, watering, weeding, planting, fertilizing, cleaning, mulching, and pest control. Monitors and manages turf through proper mowing, fertilizing, and control of weeds, insects, and diseases. Collaborates with the irrigation technician to oversee irrigation systems and adjusts programs to ensure adequate watering of turf and plant materials. Prepares seed and plant beds for planting by adding soil amendments and grading with both machinery and hand tools. Operates a wide range of power equipment, such as utility vehicles, skid steers, and forklifts. Requirements Conditions of employment Pass Pre-employment Background Investigation May need to complete a Probationary Period Maintain a Bank Account for Direct Deposit/Electronic Transfer Males born after 12/31/59 must be registered with Selective Service. Conditions of Employment Physical Requirements:This position requires the physical ability to perform moderately heavy work including lifting and carrying heavy objects up to 50 lbs.; work outside in all weather conditions with exposure to dirt, dust, pollen and insects; climb ladders and stairs; and stand and walk for extended periods.Qualification requirements must be met within 30 days of the closing date of the job opportunity announcement. PLEASE NOTE: Possession of a valid driver’s license required.For information on the Job Qualification System for Trades and Labor Occupations, see OPM’s website. Qualifications In order to be rated qualified, an applicant's overall experience and training must indicate possession of the minimum knowledge, skills, and abilities needed to perform the duties of this position. Your resume must be no more than two (2) pages and should clearly demonstrate how your experience aligns with the responsibilities and specialized experience required for this position. Do not copy language directly from the vacancy announcement, as you will be deemed ineligible for consideration. Instead, provide detailed, descriptive information about your actual experience. Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience. Education This job does not have an education qualification requirement. Additional information This position is included in the bargaining unit.   Recruitment Incentive: Recruitment incentive(s) may be authorized for this position.  However, approval for incentives are contingent upon various availability. If authorized, certain incentives will require the incumbent to sign a service agreement to remain in the Federal government for a certain time period. Note: This statement does not imply nor guarantee an incentive will be offered and paid. Selections may be made for vacancies across the Smithsonian Institution (SI). By applying to this position, you agree to allow your application and other personal information to be shared with one or more SI hiring officials for employment consideration for same/similar positions within the location(s) identified in this announcement. Expand Hide  additional information Candidates should be committed to improving the efficiency of the Federal government, passionate about the ideals of our American republic, and committed to upholding the rule of law and the United States Constitution. Benefits The Smithsonian offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes, in part, vacation and sick leave, holidays, health/life insurance, accident insurance, and excellent retirement program options. Please see Benefits at https://www.si.edu/OHR/benefits for a complete description. Flexible Spending Accounts - https://www.fsafeds.com/ Health Insurance - http://www.opm.gov/insure/health/index.aspLeave - http://www.opm.gov/oca/leave/index.aspLife Insurance - http://www.opm.gov/insure/life/index.aspLong Term Care Insurance - http://www.ltcfeds.comRetirement Program - https://www.opm.gov/retirement-services/