Rohsler’s Allendale Nursery, a well-established nursery, greenhouse, and garden center in Northern NJ is looking for full time candidates for Head Naturalistic Gardener and Garden Center Work. This is a physically active position which requires being on your feet most of the day in various weather conditions (rain/shine, hot/cold). Must be physically fit, able to lift at least 50 lbs, detail-oriented, mature, responsible, and able to listen to and follow instructions. Duties may vary depending on the season—knowledge/experience and interest in plants and gardening are needed.

We are looking for a head gardener who is passionate about plants, naturalistic dynamic landscapes, and sustainability. Individual will be assisting in the ongoing installation and maintenance of our retail nursery’s large naturalistic public show garden and to be a leader and key team player in the installation and maintenance of naturalistic and native gardens. This is not an entry-level position; experience and extensive knowledge of horticulture, garden care, trees, shrubs, perennials, grasses, sedges, bulbs, and ephemerals are required. Native plant knowledge is also a plus. Working independently, strategically and efficiently to accomplish big-picture goals is essential. Must be physically fit, able to lift at least 50 pounds, and capable of using hand and power tools as needed. The ability to drive a medium sized truck is a plus. Must be willing to work in all weather conditions.

Responsibilities will include:

• Follow weekly guidance and instruction to help maintain, edit, and enhance the naturalistic garden on-site at our nursey/garden center throughout all seasons.
• Weeding and weed maintenance
• The ability to work independently to collect data in the garden when necessary.
• Engaging in dialogue with customers and answering general garden questions.
• Maintain, set up, and run garden irrigation system in times of drought.
• Hand watering of newly planted plants.
• Mixing and application of deer repellent when required and/or according to schedule
• Caring for nursery plants
• Make sure to keep the garden clean and orderly.
• Help to identify garden pests and bring them to supervisor’s attention promptly.
• Keep garden tools accounted for, clean and stored away correctly when not in use
• Assist in garden installations which include: gathering and delivering the correct planting material to landscape site, garden installation site preparation, planting setup and placement, correct planting, and garden maintenance
• Various nursery tasks/responsibilities as needed during certain times of the year when garden work is minimal or when extra help is needed in other departments - retail sales, restocking, working in the plant production/growing areas, and Christmas work
• Pickup and deliver materials needed for garden maintenance and installation

Expectations and Requirements:

• A degree in horticulture or a similar field and/or at least two but four to five years of professional experience preferred in the horticultural or landscape industry
• An open mind, positive attitude, and desire to learn about new plants and ideas
• Hard work ethic and ability to work in all weather conditions
• Attention to detail and proper sanitation practices
• Care for the well-being of plants
• Being able to work independently with weekly and daily instruction and a goal list
• Able to ask for help when needed
• Able to lift at least 30 to 50 pounds as needed
• Full time work week; 40 to 50 hours of work per week, weather permitting
• Not afraid of bees, insects and other wildlife
• Not afraid to get dirty
• The ability to be a team player, follow instructions, and help lead employees when necessary

Salary: To be determined based on level of knowledge and experience

Schedule: 6 to 10 hour shift; flexibility in schedule needed during busy seasons and around inclement weather

Education: College or at least five years in industry work experience

Job Type: Full-time

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Employee discount
• Health insurance
• Paid time off

Schedule:

• Monday to Friday
• Weekends as needed

Ability to Relocate:

• Allendale, NJ 07401: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location: In person