Gardener

Hermann Park is one of Houston’s premier historic green spaces, 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 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 comprehensive landscape maintenance including but not limited to pruning, trimming, mulching, weeding, raking, planting, watering, fertilizing, IPM, trash removal, etc.

· Support facilitation of small volunteer groups of 3 to 5 individuals of all ages, as well as help facilitate larger groups of high school, college, and corporate organizations.

· 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.

· Log all chemical use according to all applicable laws and regulations.

· Shovel, load, transport, and spread mulch, gravel, soil, compost, and other bulk materials to project locations in the field.

· Work together as a team, with a partner, and individually, as well as occasionally help with unexpected projects and events throughout the park.

· 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

Preferred 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, pre-employment drug test, and participate in random drug testing program.

· 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 a rotation for nights, weekends, and holidays.

Compensation and Hours

· $16.16 - $17.50 hourly

· Flexible schedule, Monday – Friday, 6:30 A.M. to 3:00 P.M. with potentially one Saturday per month.

· Guaranteed 25 hours per week, max of 29 hours per week.

Job Type: Part-time

Pay: $16.16 - $17.50 per hour

Expected hours: 25 – 29 per week

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching

Work Location: In person

Salary : $16 - $18