Full Time Green Animals Operations Technician

GENERAL PURPOSE

The Green Animals Topiary Garden, located in Portsmouth, Rhode Island, is the oldest and most northern topiary garden in the United States. The 7-acre estate overlooks the Narragansett Bay. It contains a large collection of topiaries including eighty sculptured trees. The Green Animals Topiary Garden is under the auspices of The Preservation Society of Newport County.

This position supports the daily operations of the Green Animals property by performing a combination of horticultural care, site and facilities maintenance, and security functions. This role ensures the gardens, buildings, and grounds are well-maintained, safe, and welcoming for all guests. The incumbent provides hands-on support across multiple operational areas to meet the property’s seasonal and day-to-day needs. The position work schedule is Wednesday through Sunday, 40 hours per week, 9:00 am to 5:00 pm.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS 

Gardens & Grounds

• Perform lawn care including mowing, trimming, edging, and leaf removal. 
• Prune shrubs and trees; plant and maintain turf, flowers, shrubs, and trees. 
• Water plant materials and operate irrigation systems. 
• Maintain cleanliness of grounds and walkways; remove litter and debris. 
• Clean and maintain drainage ditches and culverts as needed. 
• Operate grounds equipment such as mowers, spreaders, tractors, and snow removal tools. 
• Sharpen and maintain hand tools; perform minor equipment repairs as instructed. 

Site & Facilities Operations

• Support snow and ice removal on walkways and access areas. 
• Monitor property safety and security through regular site walks; report hazards promptly. 
• Participate in emergency procedures, including assisting with guest and staff evacuation. 
• Greet and assist guests; provide directions and answer general questions. 
• Follow daily opening and closing routines including alarms, lighting, and site readiness. 
• Perform light cleaning: glass, floors, surfaces, restrooms, trash removal, and dusting. 
• Move furniture and approved objects as directed; replace light bulbs; etc. 
• Maintain interior and exterior pathways using sweeping or blowing equipment. 
• Assist with grounds condition checks, traffic ropes, and signage setup/breakdown. 

General

• Uphold Preservation Society policies and service standards. 
• Follow prescribed safety and health rules, regulations, and practices. 
• Perform other related duties as required or directed. 

REQUIREMENTS, SKILLS, ABILITIES & KNOWLEDGE

• High School Diploma or equivalent. 
• Minimum 1 year of documented grounds keeping or landscaping experience preferred. 
• Must possess a valid Driver’s License with clean driving record. 
• Previous Museum security and safety experience preferred. 
• Demonstrated technology competency 
• Strong self-starter with the ability to work independently, multi-task and establish priorities. 
• Ability to make sensible and rational decisions under potentially stressful conditions. 
• Strong interpersonal and customer service skills. 
• Knowledge of cleaning products, equipment, and safety procedures. 
• Ability to communicate effectively, verbally (especially on a portable radio system) and written. 
• Ability to follow written and verbal instructions. 
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team. 
• Attention to detail and strong work ethic. 
• Willingness to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends, as needed. 
• Ability to consistently arrive at work on time and ready to begin duties. 

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

• Ability to stand for extended periods, usually 40-45 minutes per hour. 
• Some tasks require climbing and balance. 
• Must be able to climb stairs/ladders, bend, stoop, stretch/reach, and twist. 
• Ability to walk quickly for extended distances under emergency circumstances. 
• Requires use of various hand tools and adjuncts such as wheelbarrows.?? 
• Must be able to use power tools. 
• Must be able to work on scaffolding without fear of heights. 
• Visual acuity for near and far work; ability to adjust focus. 
• Ability to drive between work locations, if needed. 
• Must be able to lift up to 50 lbs.