Seasonal Gardener, (Term Appointment) Greenhouse/Nursery

Posting date: December 11, 2025

001939SR

• Job Type: Full-time
• Location: Boston
• School/Unit: Harvard University Central Administration
• Salary Grade: 000
• Job Function: Technical
• FLSA Status: Non-exempt
• Term Appointment: Yes
• Union: 04 - Serv Emp Int Loc 615-Arnld Arb

Company Description

By working at Harvard University, you join a vibrant community that advances Harvard's world-changing mission in meaningful ways, inspires innovation and collaboration, and builds skills and expertise. We are dedicated to creating a diverse and welcoming environment where everyone can thrive.

Why join Harvard University Central Administration?

Harvard University's Central Administration (CADM) is a 5,000+ employee organization that supports the university's overall excellence by understanding and serving the needs of its schools, students, faculty, staff, alumni, and surrounding communities. Through dynamic and collaborative partnerships, CADM provides high-quality and efficient services to the schools to help them achieve their goals.

The Arnold Arboretum is a 281-acre museum of trees teaching the world about plants. With one of the world's most biodiverse collections of temperate woody plants, combined with world-class scientific resources, and a commitment to diverse programming, the Arnold Arboretum has been a leader in horticulture since its founding in 1872. As part of the Boston Parks system, it is free and open to all daily; we host three to four million visitors each year.

Job Description

The Arnold Arboretum of Harvard University is seeking applicants for a Seasonal Gardener at the Dana Greenhouse and Nursery. The successful candidate will work alongside the Plant Production team responsible for propagating and growing plant material destined for the Arboretum’s permanent tree and shrub collections. This seasonal appointment is six months in duration with a flexible start date through the spring. Normal work hours are Tuesday to Saturday, 7:30 AM-4:00 PM (40 hours/week). You may be required to work occasional holidays and additional weekend dates.

Job-Specific Responsibilities:

The person in the role will assist Plant Production staff members with various tasks including:

• Pruning
• Transplanting and repotting
• Watering and fertilizing
• Executing IPM (integrated pest management) practices
• Mowing, string trimming, and leaf clean-up
• Weeding, mulching, and brush chipping
• Hardscape and infrastructure installation and maintenance tasks
• Operating and maintaining various equipment and hand tools
• Leaf, litter, and snow management
• Greenhouse cleaning and pot washing
• Monitoring greenhouse environments
• Performing data readings and recordings of weather station
• Performs related job duties as assigned

Hourly wage: $24.94 benefits benefits-eligible position.

Please note: This is a six-month position with an end date of six months from the date of hire.

Also note: As part of the pre-hire process, a D.O.T. Medical Examiner’s Certificate, a drug screening, and an RMV check for a valid driver’s license are required at Harvard’s expense.

Working Conditions:

This position is based solely on campus, in Boston, Massachusetts. This may include in-person during emergency situations. Additional details will be discussed during the interview process.

Qualifications

Candidates MUST meet the following basic qualifications to be considered for this role:

• A minimum of one (1) year experience in horticulture or a related field
• Must have and maintain a valid driver’s license
• Must be able to perform manual labor, including frequent lifting/carrying/transporting heavy loads up to 50 pounds
• Must be able to stand for eight hours a day
• Required to work in all weather conditions in all seasons
• Must serve as essential staff for weather-related emergencies impacting the grounds

Additional Qualifications and Skills:

Previous greenhouse and/or nursery experience preferred.

Additional Information

• Standard Hours/Schedule: 40 hours per week
• Compensation Range/Rate (including Shift Differential if applicable):
• Visa Sponsorship Information: Harvard University is unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position
• Pre-Employment Screening: Harvard University requires pre-employment reference and background screenings: Identity, Driver’s License (RMV check), DOT Physical, and Drug Screening.
• Other Information: This position has a 3-month orientation and review period.

#LI-KP1