"Natural Areas Apprentice - Morris Arboretum & Gardens"

Job Description Summary

The Morris Arboretum & Gardens of the University of Pennsylvania inspires an understanding of the relationship between plants, people and place through education, research and horticultural display. Located in the Northwest section of the city, the Morris Arboretum & Gardens is a destination for plant lovers from Philadelphia and beyond. The home to a collection of more than 13,000 woody plants and host to special and educational events. Morris Arboretum & Gardens is a hub for botany, horticulture and urban forestry and a special part of Penn.

The Natural Areas Apprenticeship is seeking individuals with a strong passion for environmental land management. Apprentices receive hands-on training in all aspects of garden management and care of the living collections. Specific emphasis is placed on refining a wide range of practical land management/horticulture skills. Interns also assist in supervising volunteers. Through monthly educational opportunities, apprentices will gain knowledge and insight into other aspects of managing public gardens.

Job Description

The Natural Areas is made up of 45 acres on the public garden side of the Arboretum, which includes a 3-acre wetland, meadows, stream, woodland, and the main entrance. In addition, the historic 65-acre Bloomfield Farm property includes research plots, meadows, a floodplain, privately administered community gardens, a woody plant nursery, green roofs, a platinum LEED certified Horticulture Center, a historic grist mill, and the Arboretum's materials handling site.

The Hay Honey Farm Endowed Natural Areas Apprentice receives hands-on training in all phases of ecological garden development and care of the more than 100 acres of Natural Lands at the Morris Arboretum. Emphasis is placed on refining practical horticultural skills and the safe use and care of small and large power equipment; supervisory skills are developed by directing the activities of volunteers and seasonal employees.

Whomever is selected for this part-time position should expect to work upwards of 40 hours a week depending on operational need. This position pays $16.00 an hour.

Responsibilities

• Assist with all garden tasks, including weeding, pruning, planting, mulching, and turf care.
• Learn to properly identify weeds and implement control methods.
• Demonstrate pruning skills and assist in formative pruning of the Arboretum's plant collection.
• Demonstrate knowledge of proper pesticide use--handling, mixing, applying, and clean-up of pesticide equipment.
• Take part in watering plants and containers on a rotating weekend schedule.
• Participate in the Horticulture Department's project days.
• Learn to operate the Natural Areas machinery.
• Perform additional duties as requested.

Qualifications & Requirements

• A strong academic background in environmental studies, horticulture, or a field that is closely related.
• Be able and willing to communicate with Arboretum visitors.
• Be able and willing to work independently and as part of a team.
• Be able and willing to work in all weather conditions.
• Be able and willing to lift at least 25 lbs.
• A valid driver's license is required.

Work Environment

The Natural Areas Apprenticeship is a hands-on program that assists in the care of maintenance of the Arboretum's extensive wildlife habitat. Outdoor work is required from March to November. Priorities include planting, mowing, weed control, watering, and protecting new plantings from deer. Other tasks include pruning, brush clearing, and meadow mowing.

Pay Range

$7.25 - $16.00 Hourly Rate

To apply, visit this link