Garden Supervisor

University of Pennsylvania

2d•$24 - $31•Onsite

About The Position

The James G. Kaskey Memorial Park is a 3.5 acre garden located on the southwest corner of the University of Pennsylvania campus. It is a unique oasis that has been under the care of the Biology Department for over 100 years. The Biopond, at the heart of the garden, is one of the few remaining original features and attracts students, faculty, staff and community members throughout the year. The Garden Supervisor is a professional horticulturist responsible for the day-to-day upkeep and development of a 3.5 acre garden located on the University of Pennsylvania’s campus. They are responsible for overseeing or performing all aspects of plant care (except arboriculture work), keeping the garden safe and clean, and assisting with events and group rentals. They are responsible for supervising and training the seasonal garden assistant and may assist with interns and student workers as needed. They work closely with the Greenhouse and Garden Manager to plan and implement improvements. The Garden Supervisor is required to become familiar with all aspects of Kaskey Park including the plant collections, history, physical structures and mechanical systems. They are to perform their work according to the highest industry standards, working towards and within the mission of Kaskey Park. The Garden Supervisor will also greet visitors, conduct tours of the grounds, and assist student and faculty researchers with projects as needed.

Requirements

Minimum Associate of Science and 3 to 5 years of horticulture experience, or equivalent combination of education and experience
Experience must include plant identification and excellent working knowledge of plants hardy to the mid-Atlantic region, planting, pruning, weeding, seasonal garden management, plant record-keeping, propagation, and weed management.
Must have a valid Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture Commercial Pesticide Applicator’s License or be able to acquire one within 4 months.
Must be able to safely operate standard landscaping equipment - lawn mowers, blowers, string trimmers, tractor, and chain saw.
Ability and willingness to work in varied weather conditions.
Ability to frequently lift 25 lbs or more.
Work involves a high level of physical activity including walking, standing, bending, crouching, and stooping.
Must be able to acquire certification to work with children under the age of 18 or elders.
Must be able to acquire certification to operate a University vehicle or drive a vehicle on University business

Responsibilities

Perform and supervise all aspects of plant care and garden maintenance throughout Kaskey Park. This includes plant installation and upkeep and maintaining cleanliness of the grounds.
Train and supervise seasonal, part time, and temporary workers.
Pond Maintenance: clean and maintain pumps, water lines, and aeration systems. Add plants, water amendments and work toward creating a balanced, healthy ecosystem.
Work closely with Greenhouse and Garden Manager, as well as the Garden Committee, to create and execute short term, seasonal, and long-term goals pertaining to the health and development of the garden and pond.
Repair and maintain garden tools including 2 and 4 cycle engines, sharpen tools, and keep a clean and organized environment in the shed and other support areas.
Interface with students, faculty and staff within the Biology Department as needed. Assist with research projects and labs. Work with Facilities and Arboretum Staff to facilitate projects and maintenance.
Assist Greenhouse and Garden Manager with setup, cleanup and scheduling of events within the garden.
Outreach – may include giving tours, answering questions, and contributing to the website
Perform additional duties as assigned

Benefits

Comprehensive medical, prescription, behavioral health, dental, vision, and life insurance benefits
Flexible spending accounts for health care and dependent care expenses
Tuition assistance for employee, spouse, and dependent children
Generous retirement plans (Basic, Matching, and Supplemental)
Substantial amount of time away from work (vacations, personal affairs, illness, injury, family time)
Long-Term Care Insurance
Wellness and Work-life Resources
Professional and Personal Development resources
Access to University resources, cultural and recreational activities (libraries, athletic facilities, arboretum, art galleries)
Discounts on arts and entertainment, transportation, mortgages, goods and services
Flexible Work Hours
Penn Home Ownership Services (forgivable loan for eligible employees)
Adoption Assistance