What are the responsibilities and job description for the Gardener Part Time position at Hermann Park Conservancy?
Primary Focus
Hermann Park is one of Houston’s premier historic greenspaces, home to the city’s most iconic public gardens and park amenities. Hermann Park Conservancy is a citizens’ organization dedicated to the stewardship and improvement of Hermann Park, today and for generations to come. The Part-Time Gardener will join a dedicated and diverse team responsible for landscape and horticulture maintenance throughout Hermann Park, including locations at McGovern Centennial Gardens, Lott Hall, and the Grand Gateway.
Duties and Responsibilities
- Physically perform general grounds maintenance including but not limited to pruning, trimming, mulching, weeding, raking, planting, watering, fertilizing, spraying, trash removal, etc.
- Occasionally lead a small team of 3-15 volunteers to uphold maintenance standards to the highest degree in an assigned garden zone
- Operate battery or gas-powered equipment including but not limited to golf carts, blowers, power washers, and spray equipment.
- Apply pesticides, herbicides, biological controls, and fertilizers using IPM approach as required and directed, prioritizing organic methods. Be vigilant and proactive to monitor quality and health of plants within the park.
- Properly log chemical applications.
- Shovel, load, transport, and spread mulch, gravel, soil, compost, and other bulk materials to project locations in the field.
- Work together as a team or individually and help with unexpected projects and events throughout the park.
- Work alongside a full time gardener to assist in a specified area, learning from experienced horticulturists.
- Interact with the public and assist in monitoring public behavior to educate garden visitors on acceptable garden etiquette.
- Clean and secure all equipment at the end of the day; notify supervisor of any tool or supply needs.
- Monitor and assist maintenance staff with irrigation systems and report malfunctions.
- Comply with all safety and PPE requirements of the organization.
- Other duties as assigned.
Skills and Qualifications
- Minimum education: High school diploma
- 2 years experience in a garden, park, or landscaping setting
OR
- Completion of professional training as a Texas Master Naturalist, Texas Master Gardener, Certified Landscape Professional, or similar horticulture program
OR
- A degree in horticulture, agronomy, forestry, conservation, or related field
- Working Conditions
- Must possess a valid Texas driver’s license with a current clean record, able to work legally in the United States.
- Must pass a background check and pre-employment drug test, and random drug tests throughout employment.
- Required to work at a public park with a high degree of public interaction.
- Required to perform work outdoors, occasionally in adverse weather conditions.
- Required to perform manual labor, including lifting supplies and materials up to 50 lbs.
- Must be able to bend, squat, kneel, stand, and walk for extended periods of time.
- Must conform to Hermann Park Conservancy dress and grooming standards, work rules, and safety procedures.
- Able to work flexible hours as needed, including occasional evenings, weekends, and holidays.
Compensation and Hours
- $16.16 - $17.50 hourly
- Average of 25 hours per week, 3 or 4 days, Monday through Saturday.
Job Type: Part-time
Pay: $16.50 - $17.50 per hour
Expected hours: 20 – 28 per week
Benefits:
- Employee discount
- Flexible schedule
- Retirement plan
People with a criminal record are encouraged to apply
Work Location: In person
Salary : $16 - $18