"Part Time Assistant Gardener, Morris Arboretum"

University Overview

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.

Posted Job Title

Part Time Assistant Gardener, Morris Arboretum & Gardens

Job Profile Title

Services Assistant A

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, Morris 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.

Job Description

Description

The Morris Arboretum & Gardens of the University of Pennsylvania - located in the beautiful Chestnut Hill neighborhood of Philadelphia - is one of America's oldest arboretums. We are seeking a Part Time Assistant Gardener to join our team. This position helps with all aspects of garden and grounds maintenance tasks at the Morris Arboretum. The Assistant Gardener works closely with all members of the horticulture department and performs general turf and gardening duties to ensure the highest standards of horticultural excellence. This position reports to the Director of Horticulture and the Horticulture Section Leaders. This position regularly interacts with guests and volunteers. Occasional weekend work is required.

Duties

• Assist with all garden tasks including but not limited to weeding, pruning, planting, mulching and turf care.
• Learn to properly identify weeds and implement control methods.
• Work with horticulture team members to mow and string trim the Arboretum on a weekly basis during the growing season.
• Assist with leaf clean-up in the fall.
• Occasionally work in the garden on a rotating weekend schedule.
• Participate in Horticulture Department Team Day projects.
• Learn to operate the following garden machinery:
  • Small Equipment Operation - push mower, string trimmer, leaf blower, snow thrower
  • Large Equipment Operation - golf cart, riding mower, backhoe, tractor, dump truck
  • Arborist Equipment Operation - chainsaw, chipper
• Perform additional duties as required.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED and 1-2 years of experience in horticulture work or an equivalent combination of education and experience is required.
• Associate Degree or Two-Year College equivalent in Horticulture or related field preferred.
• 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.

This position will average 30 hours per week but may work more based on seasonal and departmental needs. This position pays $17.25/hour.

Job Location - City, State
Lafayette Hill, Pennsylvania

Department / School
Morris Arboretum

Pay Range
$16.83 - $17.25 Hourly Rate
Salary offers are made based on the candidate's qualifications, experience, skills, and education as they directly relate to the requirements of the position, and in alignment with salary ranges based on external market data for the job's level. Internal organization and peer data at Penn are also considered.