"Lead Horticulturist, Morris Arboretum & Gardens"

The University of Pennsylvania, the largest private employer in Philadelphia, is a world-renowned leader in education, research, and innovation. This historic, Ivy League school consistently ranks among the top 10 universities in the annual U.S. News & World Report survey. Penn has 12 highly-regarded schools that provide opportunities for undergraduate, graduate and continuing education, all influenced by Penn's distinctive interdisciplinary approach to scholarship and learning. As an employer Penn has been ranked nationally on many occasions with the most recent award from Forbes who named Penn one of America's Best Large Employers in 2023.

Penn offers a unique working environment within the city of Philadelphia. The University is situated on a beautiful urban campus, with easy access to a range of educational, cultural, and recreational activities. With its historical significance and landmarks, lively cultural offerings, and wide variety of atmospheres, Philadelphia is the perfect place to call home for work and play.

The University offers a competitive benefits package that includes excellent healthcare and tuition benefits for employees and their families, generous retirement benefits, a wide variety of professional development opportunities, supportive work and family benefits, a wealth of health and wellness programs and resources, and much more.

Job Description Summary

The Lead Horticulturist reports to the Director of Horticulture and oversees the daily operations of the Horticulture Department. This role is responsible for supervising and coordinating staff, apprentices, and volunteers engaged in the care and maintenance of the Arboretum's plant collections and gardens. Additional responsibilities include managing designated budgets, reviewing time reports, and conducting performance evaluations as needed.

The Lead Horticulturist is directly responsible for a designated garden section, contributing to its design, planting, and ongoing maintenance. In collaboration with the Director of Horticulture, this role supports the development of departmental goals and actively participates in the implementation of strategic planning initiatives.

Job Responsibilities

• Works closely with the Director of Horticulture to plan and implement both short- and long-term departmental priorities, ensuring efficient operations and successful outcomes.
• Leads and participates in the care and maintenance of a designated Arboretum garden section, with support from seasonal staff.
• Oversees daily horticultural activities to ensure they align with departmental goals and are executed efficiently.
• Coordinates scheduling for mower operators, apprentices, and part-time staff across the entire garden.
• Manages weekly time reporting, selected budget administration and disbursement, and staff performance evaluations as needed.
• Participates in long-term strategic planning for the department.
• Conducts outreach activities, including teaching classes through the Arboretum's Continuing Education Department.
• Supports special events, fulfills occasional weekend duty assignments, and serves as Essential Staff during snow removal operations.
• Performs other duties and responsibilities as assigned.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Horticulture and 2 to 3 years of relevant experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Strong knowledge of plant identification.
• Ability to operate garden machinery and perform physically demanding tasks as required.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Demonstrated leadership and managerial expertise in supervising staff and overseeing projects.
• Passion and enthusiasm for plants and nature, with a creative, aesthetic sense for garden design and display.

Pay Range: $57,500.00 - $66,400.00 Annual Rate

The University of Pennsylvania is an equal opportunity employer. Candidates are considered for employment without regard to race, color, sex, sexual orientation, religion, creed, national or ethnic origin, citizenship status, age, disability, veteran status or any class protected under applicable federal, state or local law.