Gardens Partner (FT) at Rock City Enterprises – Lookout Mountain, Georgia

Job Summary

The Gardens Partner is responsible for maintaining the beauty, health, and sustainability of plants, trees, garden trails, and landscaped areas across Rock City Enterprises properties. This role supports the planning, installation, renewal, and preservation of outdoor spaces to ensure they meet established standards of excellence and contribute to an exceptional guest experience. Under the direction of the Gardens Manager, the Gardens Partner performs hands-on horticultural and grounds maintenance duties across all assigned locations.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

Guest Experience & Team Collaboration

• Deliver excellent guest service to internal and external customers in alignment with Rock City Enterprises’ mission, culture, and values.
• Model professional, respectful guest and partner interactions in support of the Culture of Excellence.
• Collaborate with Gardens leadership and team members on property improvements, projects, and seasonal initiatives.
• Provide support to other teams and locations for special events, projects, and promotions as needed.

Horticultural & Grounds Maintenance

• Utilize knowledge of plant species and varieties to identify and control weeds and non-native species across gardens and properties.
• Assist with planting, transplanting, watering, fertilizing, mulching, trimming, and mowing to support healthy plant growth.
• Apply an understanding of fertilization practices, including ratios and growth benefits.
• Practice Integrated Pest Management (IPM) techniques.
• Identify native species and recognize common pests and diseases, communicating concerns to leadership for proper treatment.
• Implement landscape plans as directed by Gardens leadership.

Irrigation, Equipment & Safety

• Set, monitor, operate, and perform minor repairs on irrigation systems and timers.
• Prepare, mix, apply, clean, and store chemicals used for weed and pest control in accordance with safety standards.
• Use hand tools, power tools, and equipment—including mowers, trimmers, chainsaws, skid steer loaders, and tractors—safely and effectively.
• Assist in maintaining gardening equipment and machinery to ensure safe and efficient operation.

Additional Responsibilities

• Work outdoors in varying weather conditions, including extreme temperatures.
• Adhere to organizational processes, safety protocols, and operational procedures at all times.
• Perform other duties as assigned by management.

Qualifications

Education & Experience

• High school diploma or equivalent preferred.
• Prior experience and practical understanding of native species, basic landscaping concepts, and landscape equipment required.

Knowledge & Skills

• Ability to learn and demonstrate technical skills related to horticulture, equipment operation, and landscape maintenance.
• Understanding of irrigation systems and minor repair techniques.
• Ability to identify pests and diseases and communicate observations effectively.
• Strong teamwork skills with the ability to follow direction and work independently when needed.
• Friendly, professional demeanor with a strong commitment to guest service.
• Basic math skills required.

Licenses & Certifications

• Valid driver’s license with a good driving record required.

Physical Demands & Work Environment

• Ability to stand, walk, climb, and balance regularly.
• Regular use of hands and fingers.
• Ability to lift and/or move up to 80 pounds.
• Frequent stooping, kneeling, or crouching.
• Ability to work outdoors year-round in varying and extreme weather conditions.
• Flexible availability including nights, weekends, holidays, and special events as needed.