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June 8, 2016- With the departure of top parks staff, and the complete shuttering of the BPC Parks Conservancy, we were left wondering whether the BPCA planned to let the parks fall into disrepair. This news is somewhat encouraging. They are hiring a new Director of Horticulture.
Battery Park City Authority
Position: Director of Horticulture, Sustainability & Landscape Design
Department: Horticulture
GENERAL DESCRIPTION OF DUTIES
The Director of Horticulture, Sustainability and Landscape Design is responsible for overseeing and managing the highly specialized plantings, gardens and public art in Battery Park City’s parkland and open spaces, including those on the the Eastern Border. The Director is responsible for maintaining the Battery Park City’s parks and open spaces in world class condition utilizing “green” techniques, design and vision.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
• Develop goals, objectives and vision for the future of the Horticulture Department consistent with the mission of the BPCA
• Maintain the current standards of the world renowned parks in Battery Park City and suggest enhancements and sustainability plans for park areas
• Oversee the tree, lawn and plant maintenance, turf care and composting program. Recommend plans for replanting in selected areas and establish the scheduling criteria and budget to support these plans
• Assist in managing in-house landscape projects to ensure that projects are completed on schedule and within budget
• Conduct and or direct a significant portion of research for landscape design projects
• Must have a working knowledge of sustainable “green” design, conservation, horticulture, urban design and public art
• Create and establish best practices for the Horticulture Department and represent BPCA as the subject matter expert in the Horticulture field; act as a liaison to other City and State park entities and community groups
• Collaborate with Battery Park City Authority Senior Staff and all other Authority departments in the planning and designing of new landscapes and/or the improvement to existing structures or park areas
• Coordinate and develop short and long term strategic planning goals and objectives for Battery Park City with senior management
• Manage the composting and soil lab
• Oversee drafting and specifications for RFP’s
• Oversee staff development and training and attend agency-wide training
• Develop a cross-training program for staff in soil sampling, liquid biological brewing and application program
• Maintain and manage the non-toxic pest and disease control program
• Establish an annual operating and personnel budget for the Horticulture Department working cohesively with senior horticulture staff, Authority senior staff and the Finance Department
• Oversee the employee selection process identifying candidates for new hires, promotions and new needs
• Participate in the Performance Review process
• Confer with HR on personnel, disciplinary or performance matters
• Uphold and enforce policies, procedures and organizational guidelines
• Respond to work as needed in emergency situations or for special events
• Ability to work a flexible schedule a must
• Participate in or conduct meetings as required by management
• Ensure a positive and fair work environment
MINIMUM TRAINING AND EXPERIENCE
Bachelor’s Degree in Horticulture or closely related field with a minimum of ten years of experience in the fields of horticulture and design. At least five years in a supervisory capacity. Must have successful operational experience and knowledge in sustainable landscape practice. Knowledge of public sector procurement process is a plus.
Associates Degree in Horticulture or closely related field with a minimum of 15 years of experience in horticulture and design. At least 8 years in a supervisory capacity. Must have successful operational experience and knowledge in sustainable landscape practice. Knowledge of public sector procurement process is a plus.
Must have excellent leadership skills, strong communication, literary, technical and analytic skills.
Must have a valid New York State Driver’s license.
Interested candidates should send a cover letter, current salary, three business references and their resume to HR@bpca.ny.gov.