Horticulture Apprentice - Morris Arboretum & Gardens

University of Pennsylvania • Philadelphia, PA

8d • Onsite

About The Position

The Morris Arboretum & Gardens of the University of Pennsylvania inspires an understanding of the relationship between plants, people and place through education, research and horticultural display. Located in the Northwest section of the city, the Morris Arboretum & Gardens is a destination for plant lovers from Philadelphia and beyond. The home to a collection of more than 13,000 woody plants and host to special and educational events. Morris Arboretum & Gardens is a hub for botany, horticulture and urban forestry and a special part of Penn.

Requirements

• A high school diploma or GED is required.
• Demonstrate a passion for horticulture, plants, and the natural world.
• Be able and willing to communicate with diverse Arboretum visitors.
• Be able and willing to work independently and as part of a team.
• Be able and willing to work in all weather conditions.
• Be able and willing to lift at least 25 lbs.
• A valid driver's license is required.

Nice To Haves

• An associate's degree or bachelor’s degree in a related field is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Assist with all garden tasks, including weeding, pruning, planting, mulching, and turf care.
• Learn to properly identify weeds and implement control methods.
• Demonstrate pruning skills using CODIT philosophy and assist in formative pruning of the Arboretum's plant collection.
• Demonstrate knowledge of proper pesticide use--handling, mixing, applying, and clean-up of pesticide equipment.
• Take part in watering plants and containers on a rotating weekend schedule.
• Participate in the Horticulture Department's project days.
• Interact with visitors as garden ambassadors.
• Direct horticulture volunteers under the section leader’s guidance.
• Learn to operate the following garden machinery: Small Equipment Operation - weed whacker, push mower, string trimmer, leaf blower, snow thrower; Large Equipment Operation - golf cart, riding mower, backhoe, tractor, dump truck; Arborist Equipment Operation - chainsaw, chipper.
• Perform additional duties as requested.

Benefits

• Comprehensive medical, prescription, behavioral health, dental, vision, and life insurance benefits.
• Generous retirement plans including Basic, Matching, and Supplemental retirement plans.
• Pre-tax or Roth savings options for retirement.
• Wide variety of investment options through TIAA and Vanguard.

What This Job Offers

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