As one of the great gardens of the world located just 30 miles outside of Philadelphia, Longwood Gardens is rooted in a steadfast mission of bringing joy and inspiration to everyone through the beauty of nature, conservation, and learning. Across our many departments, each and every staff member creates the magic that makes our Gardens distinctive. Our team of dynamic professionals is what sets us apart, and our spirit of legacy, innovation, and opportunity is what guides us. While beauty is our heart, our people are our soul.

Longwood Gardens is seeking a part-time Soils and Compost Equipment Operator to assist in the daily operations and special projects at Longwood’s soils and composting facility. This position requires skilled work and comprehensive knowledge of equipment operation and safety protocols. The successful candidate will play a vital role in maintaining the facility and equipment to ensure they align with Longwood’s conservation and sustainability objectives. Responsibilities include:

• Transport materials between the soils and composting facility and other areas of Longwood Gardens.
• Participate in soil mixing, composting operations, organic materials handling, and weed management.
• Maintain the aesthetics of the soils and composting site to Longwood standards.
• Keep warehouses organized and clean.
• Adhere to all Longwood Safety policies and procedures, ensuring safe equipment operation and maintenance.
• Support the operational and logistical goals of the Science Division.
• Assist in maintaining supply inventory and equipment to support efficient resource management.
• Review and recommend improved operating policies and procedures, ensuring proper implementation and adherence.
• Assists with the preparation and installation of special or seasonal displays.
• Supports the snow operation removal procedures

The ideal candidate will possess: 

• 4 years of work experience in landscaping, equipment operation, or related fields
• A Bachelor’s degree in ecology, wildlife or natural resources management, soil science, agriculture, equipment maintenance, or related discipline is preferred but not required

• Proficiency in operating at least two of the following pieces of equipment: tractor with PTO implements, wheel loader with various attachments, skid loader with various attachments, swap loader, screener, flail mower, backhoe, forklift, or other large farm equipment.
• A Commercial Driver’s License 
• A PA pesticide Applicators Certification or willingness to obtain one
• Ability to lift, move and transport 75 pounds
• Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions, stand for long periods and perform work on slopes and ungraded, hilly, rocky or uneven terrain.

Longwood Gardens is committed to nurturing a diverse and inclusive environment that celebrates the complexities and differences of all living things. We welcome and respect diverse backgrounds, life experiences, and perspectives. Diversity creates a more beautiful world, sparks innovation, and unites us.