Nursery Worker

Function of Job

Under general supervision from a designated supervisor, to be responsible for the operation of greenhouses and for the planting and cultivation of greenhouse plants.


A(n) Nursery Worker typically -

1. cultivates and propagates plants from seeds, cuttings, and by grafting, budding, layering, or dividing;
2. mixes soil, moss, and other ingredients for plant beds;
3. sprays, dusts, or applies pesticides, fertilizers, and growth regulators;
4. prunes and stimulates growth with plant hormones;
5. regulates temperature, humidity, water, and light;
6. assists in routine research work;
7. supervises students and other personnel as assigned;
8. maintains inventory of plants, materials, and supplies;
9. assists in the coordination of plants for use in classrooms, campus events, outside plantings, demonstrations, and displays;
10. operates and maintains light greenhouse machinery and equipment (such as rototillers, sprayers, and vents);
11. conducts tours of greenhouses and facilities;
12. performs related duties as assigned.

CREDENTIALS TO BE VERIFIED BY PLACEMENT OFFICER

1. High school diploma or equivalent.
2. Any one or combination totaling eighteen months (18 months) from the categories below:
   1. Coursework in botany, plant biology, horticulture, plant and soil science, or a closely related field ( such as biology, forestry, and floriculture) as measured by the following conversion table or its proportional equivalent:
      • 30 semester hours equals one (1) year (12 months)
      • Associate’s Degree (60 semester hours) equals eighteen months (18 months)
   2. Work experience in greenhouse or nursery operations.
3. Eligibility for licensure to apply pesticides under the Illinois Pesticide Act, the category of the license depending on the nature of the work to be performed; the license must be obtained within the probationary period.
4. Possession of a valid State of Illinois driver’s license, the class of the license depending on the type of vehicle(s) to be operated.

1. Knowledge of plant morphology and systematics.
2. Knowledge of the use and application of pesticides.
3. Knowledge of computers.
4. Ability to compute metric measurements and mix chemical solutions.
5. Ability to supervise.
6. Mechanical skills.