Weekend Gardener (Seasonal)

Pittsburgh Botanic Garden inspires people to value plants, garden design and the natural world by cultivating plant collections of the Allegheny Plateau and temperate regions, creating display gardens, conducting educational programs, and conserving the environment.

RESPONSIBILITIES

As part of the Garden’s growing team, we are seeking a seasonal Weekend Gardener who will tend the living plant collections and horticultural displays. This position assists in maintaining plants in containers and landscapes. The seasonal Weekend Gardener plays a key role in the appearance of Pittsburgh Botanic Garden through their energetic attention to detail and technical skills.

This dedicated and dependable individual will bring horticultural knowledge and professional gardening experience to the Garden, implement best stewardship practices, and assist Garden staff with achieving exceptional standards for garden maintenance. Excellent communication skills, respect, and integrity are required. This is an entry-level position and training will be provided.

This position reports to the Horticulture Manager and works closely with other Horticulture & Conservation staff members.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

• Perform general garden maintenance such as watering, planting, deadheading, mulching, and weeding of the permanent and seasonal plantings.
• Monitor pests and diseases and follow appropriate Integrated Pest Management strategies.
• Operate equipment such as utility vehicles and standard garden power tools such as backpack blowers, mowers and string trimmers.
• Provide excellent customer service and always demonstrate a professional manner.
• Participate in seasonal activities including bulb planting, garden cleanup, and snow removal.
• Weekend duties include caring for the Garden’s small flock of chickens.
• As needed, complete non-horticultural projects that support the Garden’s mission and development.

• Education or training in horticulture or a related field is preferred.
• Knowledge and/or experience in the following areas: arboriculture, PA native plants, perennials, fruit trees, container displays, and the common landscape plants of USDA zones 5 and 6.
• Demonstrated skills in collaboration and creative problem-solving.
• Strength in oral and written communications and the ability to manage multiple tasks.
• An enthusiastic commitment to the mission and purpose of the Garden.
• Proficient with equipment used in the horticultural trade, including hand tools and small engine equipment.
• Ability to follow directions and willing to learn Garden best practices.

WORK CONDITIONS

• Primarily outdoor physical work in all weather conditions with occasional work at special events
• Non-exempt, hourly position. Typically, this is a 16-24 hour per week position with hours being 8:00 am-4:00 pm Saturday and Sunday with the option to work Fridays 7:00 am-3:00 PM
• Must be able to traverse moderate to difficult site conditions related to Garden topography.
• Ability to stand, kneel, or bend for extended periods and lift 40 pounds.
• Exposure to biting/stinging insects, poisonous plants, petroleum products, and horticultural chemicals (e.g., deer repellant)
• Cell phones and ear buds/headphones may not be used during work hours unless for emergencies or work purposes, this includes taking photos, listening to podcasts & music.
• Must possess a valid driver’s license.
• Must be willing to obtain clearances prior to starting date (Child Abuse Clearance; PA State Police Background Check; FBI Fingerprint Background Check).