Gardener

Nashville Zoo • Nashville, TN

19h • $17 - $19

About The Position

The Gardener works in the Horticulture department and reports to the Area Manager- Horticulture. The role maintains plants, gardens, and greenspaces in an assigned area of the Nashville Zoo, helping keep them healthy, attractive, and clear of debris. Responsibilities include monitoring plant health, watering and feeding plants, trimming trees and shrubs, fertilizing and mowing lawns, weeding, and maintaining landscaping equipment while following health and safety regulations. The ideal candidate has an appreciation for horticulture, attention to detail, and a commitment to maintaining landscapes year-round.

This is a full-time position. The schedule may require flexibility for special events, emergencies, or animal care needs. Candidates must complete a criminal background check and drug screening before hire. Pre-employment and annual tuberculosis screenings are conditions of continued employment. Employment is at-will, and the Zoo maintains a drug-free workplace.

Requirements

• High school diploma or GED equivalent.
• Valid driver’s license.
• Ability to self-direct work tasks while ensuring safety and productivity.
• Ability and motivation to learn the plants on the grounds and their proper care.
• Ability to interact professionally with staff and visitors.
• Ability to perform assigned tasks in an organized and efficient manner.
• Ability to professionally and safely use the small, medium, and heavy equipment and tools required for assigned tasks.
• Ability to meet the described physical demands, including frequent standing and walking, bending, kneeling, reaching, climbing, repetitive motions, and lifting, carrying, pushing, and pulling up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to work indoors and outdoors year-round in all weather conditions and safely navigate ladders, stairs, uneven surfaces, and wet or slippery areas.
• Ability to operate tools, equipment, vehicles, and radios safely, with adequate vision, hearing, hand dexterity, and clear communication.
• Ability to learn new tasks, remember processes, maintain focus, work independently, and make timely decisions.
• Successful completion of a criminal background check and drug screening before hire, and pre-employment and annual tuberculosis screenings.

Nice To Haves

• A background in landscaping or grounds maintenance is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Prune and weed landscaped areas.
• Maintain regular and reliable attendance.
• Maintain professional conduct and model the organization’s values in interactions with colleagues, guests, and stakeholders.
• Monitor irrigation systems and ensure they are working properly.
• Hand-water plantings that are not established.
• Install plants when necessary.
• Assist other departments and staff when requested.
• Complete assigned tasks in an orderly and efficient manner.
• Further horticulture knowledge during tenure at the Zoo.
• Monitor plant health and maintain greenspaces, including watering and feeding plants, trimming trees and shrubs, fertilizing and mowing lawns, and keeping greenspaces and walkways clear of debris and litter.
• Use and maintain landscaping equipment while following health and safety regulations.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision plans.
• Employee Assistance Program providing confidential mental, emotional, and financial support services.
• 401(k) retirement plan with company matching.
• Paid time off and sick leave.
• Discounts on park experiences, retail, and food services, plus complimentary membership benefits.
• Collaborative and inclusive workplace culture.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED