Part Time Assistant Gardener, Morris Arboretum & Gardens
University of PennsylvaniaAbout the role
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 & GardensJob Profile Title
Services Assistant AJob 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
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