GENERAL POSITION SUMMARY:

Intern Student - Landscape performs work involving the installation, maintenance, and renovation of landscape on public rights-of-way or easements after utility related improvements or repairs have been performed. Work involves performing a variety of landscape projects including erosion control, vegetation establishment, minor retaining walls, fencing, or other landscape/hardscape projects. Work involves planning, scheduling, and ordering materials and the execution of proposed work to accomplish assigned projects. It is imperative for this position to communicate internally with other divisions to coordinate projects, adjust priorities and relay status. It is also very important to communicate as necessary with the public/customers when work is being performed in the vicinity of private property.



ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

-Complete landscape contracting projects for Starkville Utilities after Utility related repairs are performed by City personnel or contractors.
-Inspect the construction site, assess the condition and solutions, resolve problems that may arise and successfully complete the final landscape contracting projects.
-Understand departmental policies related to landscaping improvements and apply the policies appropriately and consistently in all situations. 
-Communicate via notes, photos, reports of the conditions during all phases of the work. Ability to prioritize and schedule repair work as needed and as directed; consults with supervisor on scheduling, purchasing of materials, any issues encountered, and responsible for final closeout.
-Perform landscaping projects; initiates requisitions to obtain supplies, and other services to complete work.
-Manage time and priorities and work independently without direct supervision. 
-Execute strong attention to detail; learn and execute proper landscape contracting techniques with a high quality finished product.
-Participate in the operation of various landscape equipment assigned to the employee and be responsible for the maintenance and upkeep to ensure the equipment is operable and functional.
-Monitor progress; make necessary changes; complete work orders and daily reports on work performed.
-Assist in troubleshooting landscaping related issues, resolving and communication with the customer.
-Provide quality customer service by excellent communication, a high quality work product, and a positive reflection of Starkville Utilities. 
-Establish effective working relationships with City employees, consultants, and the general public.
-Perform other duties as assigned.


KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

-Knowledge of computers and applicable software such as work orders, email and other technology related tools.
-Knowledge of business English, spelling and arithmetic.
-Knowledge of records management policies, procedures, and processes.
-Possess and apply strategic thinking skills, including having the ability to clearly define objectives, generate an action plan, define necessary resources, effectively anticipate change, brainstorm, troubleshoot and generate solutions. 
-Possess and apply exceptional communication skills, including active listening skills, conflict resolution, seeking clarification as needed, building relationships and where possible creating “win-win” outcomes using positive reinforcement and diplomacy.
-Capable of being coached, open to feedback, and engaged in continuous improvement as it relates to knowledge, skills and abilities associated with this position and as an employee of the department.
-Ability to operate computer and applicable software, printer, scanner, city vehicle, calculator, and standard office equipment while performing essential functions.
-Ability to prioritize and organize work. Ability to work on multiple tasks at one time without direct supervision.
-Ability to manage time and allocate the appropriate amount for each specific task.
-Prioritize and schedule workload, to ensure completion when faced with deadlines or emergencies.
-Keep accurate records; prepare documents and spreadsheets using Word and Excel.



EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE REQUIRED:

-Coursework in Landscape Contracting Building Construction Science, Engineering, or related field. 
-Relevant or similar experience performing landscaping, land management, or outdoor manual labor including the use of  small mechanized equipment and hand tools.



LICENSES, CERTIFICATIONS & OTHER REQUIREMENTS:

-Available to work up to 20 hours per week. There is flexibility in the days/times worked; however, the applicant must be able to consistently maintain a regular schedule.
-Must possess a valid Driver’s License and acceptable MVR.


WORKING ENVIRONMENT AND PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

All types of weather and temperature conditions. Work and/or walk for long periods of time on various types of surfaces including slippery or uneven surfaces and rough terrain. Work is performed in an office environment and near other workers. Requires working varying hours, weekends, and holidays. Work environment is informal, team-oriented, having both routine and variable tasks with variable pace and pressure. Work is performed outdoors, except for the occasional administrative or reporting work which will be indoors. 

Primary functions require sufficient physical ability to operate assigned equipment. FREQUENT bending, stooping, squatting, and climbing; standing, sitting, reaching at and above shoulder height, kneeling, balancing above ground, pushing and pulling, crawling, twisting at waist, upward and downward flexion of neck, side-to-side turning of neck; lifting of objects weighing up to 75 lbs.