Seasonal Lead Gardener - Miller Nature Preserve
About The Position
Lead Gardener assists the Park Manager in managing daily horticulture operations in the Outdoor Gardens, working with staff and/or volunteers in planting, weeding, pruning, and landscape maintenance. This position involves overseeing seasonal tasks (planting/winterizing), maintaining irrigation systems, operating machinery, and ensuring high-quality, safe, aesthetically pleasing gardens. Candidates must work effectively in a team environment with park staff and volunteers, represent the park district positively, and communicate clearly with park visitors and program participants. Rate of Pay: $15-20 per hour, commensurate with experience. Hours: Up to 39 hours per week, late April through late October. Interested applicants should apply and submit a résumé by Friday, April 17, 2026.
Requirements
- Completion of secondary education (high school diploma or GED).
- Must possess a valid Ohio driver’s license and complete a background check.
- Lorain County Metropolitan Park District policy prohibits hiring new employees who are tobacco users.
- Excellent visitor service, communication, and interpersonal skills.
- Strong knowledge of plant identification, plant care, and horticultural practices.
- Ability to perform heavy manual labor, such as lifting 50+ lbs, digging, and working in various weather conditions.
- Ability to operate and maintain equipment like tillers and blowers.
- Willingness to work outside in all types of weather.
- Ability to lift up to 30 lbs. and walk up to 5 miles in a day.
Nice To Haves
- Two years of college in the field of natural resources, education, environmental science, or a related field is preferred.
Responsibilities
- Coordinate daily tasks, supervise staff/volunteers, and ensure adherence to safety protocols and horticultural standards
- Execute and oversee planting, pruning, mulching, watering, weeding, and fertilizing of trees, shrubs, annuals, and perennials.
- Monitor for pests and diseases, applying treatments as necessary.
- Maintain irrigation systems and safely operate/repair landscaping machinery such as blowers, mowers, and power tools.
- Prepare beds in spring, maintain areas through summer, and perform fall cleanup and winterization.
- Work well with others and individually, performing duties as assigned, as a member of the Miller Nature Preserve team.
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What This Job Offers
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
High school or GED
