Gardener Helper (Part-Time)

Architect of the Capitol•Washington, DC

5d•Onsite

About The Position

This part-time position is in the U.S. Botanic Garden’s Horticulture Division, Gardens and Grounds Section. The selectee propagates and grows seasonal plants of high horticultural quality and may be assigned to more than one section for training. The position may be filled at the WG-05 or WG-06 (Advanced) level, with developmental assignments intended to support advancement to the full performance level. The duties described are for the WG-06 level. The employee grows accessioned collection plants for display, helps manage and cultivate specialized plant collections, propagates and maintains unusual plants and plant materials, and supports the installation and upkeep of educational and aesthetic displays. The employee maintains plant and accession records, transports plants and equipment, and participates in USBG sustainability programs. The role requires adherence to safety procedures and use of required personal protective equipment. The employee must report during emergencies and inclement weather, and the schedule includes regular weekend work; evening and holiday work may also be required based on operational needs.

Requirements

Meet the WG-05 screen-out: ability to perform Gardener Helper work without more than normal supervision, including basic knowledge of growing and maintaining a diverse group of plants; or meet the WG-06 screen-out: ability to perform advanced Gardener Helper work without more than normal supervision, including working knowledge of growing and maintaining a diverse group of plants.
Be a U.S. citizen or meet one of the listed qualifying immigration or federal employment statuses.
Pass a drug test.
Possess and maintain a valid, unexpired state driver's license at the time of application.
Possess a DC Pesticide Applicator's License to apply pesticides in the District of Columbia; the duties state that DC registration must be obtained within 90 days after appointment.
Meet all eligibility and qualification requirements by the announcement closing date.

Responsibilities

Grow a wide variety of accessioned collection plants for display throughout the U.S. Botanic Garden.
Assist in managing, maintaining, developing, and cultivating specialized plant group collections.
Propagate and cultivate unusual plants, seeds, and plant materials.
Replant, divide, root, and prune plant specimens to promote and maintain optimum plant health.
Propagate collection plants by division, cuttings, seeds, and air layering at appropriate times.
Develop and maintain accurate records, including seasonal growing schedules.
Assist with labeling and accessioning permanent plants and work with the Botanist to maintain detailed accession records.
Operate a motor vehicle to transport plants and equipment to designated facilities.
Record plant dates, names, accession numbers, quantities, and destinations.
Assist with the layout and design, plant selection and labeling, maintenance, and rotation of aesthetic and educational plant displays.
Participate in USBG sustainability efforts, including composting, recycling, and energy reduction programs.
Obtain DC pesticide applicator registration within 90 days after appointment and apply pesticides under the direction of a licensed pesticide applicator.
Follow safety rules, regulations, and standard operating procedures; use required personal protective equipment and participate in safety training.
Report to work during emergencies and inclement weather; work regular weekends and, as operational needs require, evenings and holidays.

Benefits

A variety of health insurance plans
Retirement system with investment options
Paid holidays
Paid sick and annual (vacation) leave
Life insurance
Incentive systems
Subsidized transportation
Training and development opportunities
Potential higher annual leave accrual credit based on qualifying prior service
Opportunity for eligible employees to participate in the Student Loan Repayment Program