"Part Time Assistant Gardener, Morris Arboretum & Gardens"

Job Description Summary

The Morris Arboretum & Gardens is seeking a Part-Time Assistant Gardener to support all aspects of garden and grounds maintenance. Reporting to the Lead Horticulturist, this position works closely with the horticulture team, volunteers, and Arboretum guests to uphold the highest standards of horticultural excellence. The Assistant Gardener will participate in daily landscape care, assist with seasonal maintenance, and operate a variety of garden equipment. Occasional weekend work is required.

Job Description

Duties

• Assist with garden maintenance tasks including weeding, planting, mulching, pruning, turf care, and seasonal leaf clean-up.
• Learn to identify weeds and apply appropriate control methods.
• Support weekly mowing and trimming operations during the growing season.
• Participate in Horticulture Department "Team Day" projects.
• Assist with snow removal during winter months, as needed.
• Operate or learn to operate a range of horticultural equipment, including: push mower, string trimmer, leaf blower, snow thrower, golf cart, riding mower, backhoe, tractor, dump truck, and chipper.
• Interact courteously with Arboretum visitors and volunteers.
• Perform additional duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required; 1-2 years of horticulture or groundskeeping experience, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Associate degree or two-year college coursework in horticulture or a related field preferred.
• Ability and willingness to communicate with Arboretum visitors in a friendly, professional manner.
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a team.
• Ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions.
• Ability to lift and carry at least 25 lbs.
• Valid driver's license required.

This position averages 30 hours per week with a seasonal schedule:

• 20 hours/week in March and December
• 40 hours/week April through November
• No hours January and February

About the Morris Arboretum & Gardens

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 Philadelphia's Chestnut Hill neighborhood, the Arboretum is home to a living collection of more than 13,000 woody plants and serves as a hub for botany, horticulture, and urban forestry. As one of America's oldest arboreta, the Morris Arboretum is a destination for plant lovers and a special part of Penn.

Job Location - City, State

Lafayette Hill, Pennsylvania

Department / School

Morris Arboretum

Pay Range

$16.83 - $17.95 Hourly Rate