Assistant Horticulturist Obama Presidential Center, Chicago, IL

Chicago Botanic Garden • Chicago, IL

8d

About The Position

Under the direction of the senior manager of Garden Partnerships, we are seeking a passionate seasonal assistant horticulturist to support and assist in the care and cultivation of our display vegetable garden at Obama Presidential Center. The garden will operate seven days a week from March to October. The position is hands-on horticulture, showcasing sustainable growing practices and seasonal food production to a diverse audience. Scheduled to work 30 hours per week Wednesday through Sunday.

Requirements

• Three years of experience in landscape maintenance and construction of landscape beds and plantings required.
• Completed horticulture training program, taken classes in gardening, or commensurate experience required.
• Competency in general landscape maintenance and construction of landscape beds.
• Ability to work independently, under the direction of the supervising horticulturist.
• Ability to speak, read, and write basic English; some level of Spanish is a plus.
• Basic level of computer skills, especially Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook, etc.) for interdepartmental documentation and communication.
• A current, valid driver’s license and ability to be insurable by the Garden.

Responsibilities

• Under the direction of the senior manager of Garden Partnerships, use organic and sustainable methods to maintain the Eleanor Roosevelt Vegetable Garden through weeding, watering, crop rotation deadheading, fertilizing, planting, transplanting, pruning, winterizing, trellising, releasing beneficial insects, removing debris, etc.
• Provide supervisor with weekly information on current plantings, crop rotation, transplanting, and plant removals.
• Identify and report quality assurance issues such as weeds, diseases, insects, or other animal issues to supervisor.
• Use safe and proper techniques when using tools and equipment.
• Label all plants for display in a timely manner.
• Transport plants, plant material, and supplies from the Chicago Botanic Garden, Farm on Ogden, and or contracted vendors.
• Serve as a horticultural resource for the Obama Presidential Center (OPC) answering visitor and staff questions.
• Harvest and pack in compliance with Good Agricultural Practices and Food Safety standards.
• Participate in Windy City Harvest meetings and events.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: No Education Listed
• Number of Employees: 251-500 employees