Seasonal Garden Assistant

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

Seasonal Garden Assistant

Job Profile Title

Temporary Employee - Non-Exempt

Job Description Summary

The part-time Seasonal Garden Assistant supports the Biology Department's Greenhouse and Garden Manager and Garden Supervisor by performing routine garden maintenance at James G. Kaskey Memorial Park, a 3.5 acre highly cultivated space on the southwest corner of the University of Pennsylvania campus.

Job Description

James G. Kaskey Memorial Park is a 3.5 acre highly cultivated garden and public green space on the southwest edge of the University of Pennsylvania campus. The site of the original botanic garden for the University, the space is still managed by Biology Department staff over 100 years later.

The part-time Seasonal Garden Assistant supports the Garden Manager and Supervisor by performing routine garden maintenance at James G. Kaskey Memorial Park. Gardening tasks include weeding, mowing, planting, irrigation, and mulching. Park related tasks include litter control, trash removal, event set up, and participation in educational events. Some horticultural experience, a basic understanding of plants, weed identification, a willingness to learn, and the ability to work both independently as well as closely with the Garden Supervisor is necessary for optimal performance. Safe and effective operation of gas and electric-powered tools such as mowers, blowers and string trimmers is required. The Seasonal Garden Assistant must be interested in plants and gardening, possess an eye for detail, be open to instruction or feedback, be self motivated, be thorough in their work, and ready to be a part of our small team.    

Qualifications:

• Candidates have 1-2 years of horticulture related experience.

• High school diploma or G.E.D. is required.

• Ability to communicate effectively with the rest of the team

• Ability to work independently and collaboratively

• Ability to perform physical gardening tasks such as bending, lifting, pushing, and digging

• Must be able to lift and carry items up to 50 pounds.

• Must be able and fully willing to work in typical regional outdoor conditions.