Training cost covered for those interested in city plant nursery jobs

HONOLULU — In partnership with Windward Community College and Good Jobs Hawaii, the City and County of Honolulu is offering scholarships to those interested in becoming a nursery worker in the Department of Parks and Recreation’s Division of Urban Forestry, according to a news release.

The deadline to apply for the scholarship is May 31. Individuals can fill out the online application for the “Plant Propagation for Nursery Workers” course at Windward Community College that runs from July 2 to August 8. The course is roughly 45 hours of in-person training held 8:30 a.m. to noon Tuesdays and Thursdays.

Those who sign up will be introduced to growing a variety of plants and trees through different propagation methods, such as from seed, cuttings, grafting and budding. Trainees will also learn skills valuable in groundskeeping and landscaping careers such as how to identify plants, understand how environmental factors influence growth and how to help struggling plants.

Completion of the course fulfills the training and experience requirements for DUF’s Nursery Worker I and II positions that work outdoors with plants. The positions earn upwards of $4,471 per month, with employee benefits.

Information on City and County of Honolulu employment opportunities and applications are available online.

Additional information on this training and scholarship opportunity are available by emailing training@hawaii.edu or calling 808-960-8565.