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University Overview

The University of Pennsylvania, the largest private employer in Philadelphia, is a world-renowned leader in education, research, and innovation. This historic, Ivy League school consistently ranks among the top 10 universities in the annual U.S. News & World Report survey. Penn has 12 highly-regarded schools that provide opportunities for undergraduate, graduate and continuing education, all influenced by Penn’s distinctive interdisciplinary approach to scholarship and learning. As an employer Penn has been ranked nationally on many occasions with the most recent award from Forbes who named Penn one of America’s Best Large Employers in 2023.

Penn offers a unique working environment within the city of Philadelphia. The University is situated on a beautiful urban campus, with easy access to a range of educational, cultural, and recreational activities. With its historical significance and landmarks, lively cultural offerings, and wide variety of atmospheres, Philadelphia is the perfect place to call home for work and play.

Posted Job Title

Arborist Apprenticeship - Morris Arboretum & Gardens

Job Profile Title

Temporary Employee - Non-Exempt

Job Description Summary

The Morris Arboretum & Gardens of the University of Pennsylvania inspires an understanding of the relationship between plants, people and place through education, research and horticultural display. Located in the Northwest section of the city, the Morris Arboretum & Gardens is a destination for plant lovers from Philadelphia and beyond. The home to a collection of more than 13,000 woody plants and host to special and educational events. Morris Arboretum & Gardens is a hub for botany, horticulture and urban forestry and a special part of Penn.

Job Description

The Arboriculture Apprentice works alongside the Arborist team in maintaining and caring for the trees on the Morris Arboretum's 167 acres. The apprentice participates in all aspects of tree care management, including tree pruning, tree removal, hazard inspection, tree support systems and integrated pest management. The apprentice will learn climbing techniques and basic arboriculture concepts. The Arboriculture Apprenticeship is physically demanding and involves climbing and working in trees at heights in excess 60-80 ft. This position is supported by the Walter W. Root Memorial Arborist Apprenticeship Endowment.

Whomever is selected for this part-time position should expect to work upwards of 40 hours a week depending on operational need. This position pays $16.00 an hour.

Duties

+ Develop and practice skills in all aspects of tree care (e.g. tree pruning, cabling and bracing and integrated pest management)

+ Become a safe, effective, and efficient climber.

+ Operate heavy machinery such as chippers and large trucks with trailers.

+ Become proficient and confident with the maintenance and use of a chainsaw.

+ Participate in teaching and developing various arboricultural classes and demonstrations.

+ Assist the Outreach Arborist Team with consulting projects, tree inventories and assessments.

+ Take part in watering plants and containers on a rotating weekend schedule

+ Learn to follow proper safety practices.

+ Demonstrate pruning skills using CODIT philosophy and assist in formative pruning of the Arboretum's plant collection.

+ Demonstrate knowledge of proper pesticide use--handling, mixing, applying and clean-up of pesticide equipment.

+ Water greenhouses on a rotating weekend schedule.

+ Participate in Horticulture Department project days.

+ Learn to safely operate the following equipment: string trimmer, push mower, leaf blower, brush hog, golf cart, riding mower, backhoe, tractor, dump truck, and skid steer

+ Be an enthusiastic ambassador for the Arboretum through positive interactions with guests, members and staff.

+ Perform additional duties as requested.

Qualifications

+ High school diploma or GED required.

+ An academic background in forestry, horticulture, landscaping or a related field.

+ Basic tree climbing ability is beneficial.

+ Physical aptitude, strength, and stamina to safely process large tree limbs.

+ Be able and willing to work on uneven terrain.

+ Must be able to perform manual labor, including frequent lifting/carrying/transporting loads up to 50 lbs. Should be able to safely hoist and sustain one’s own body weight.

+ Be able and willing to work independently and as part of a team.

+ Be able and willing to work in all weather conditions.

+ A valid driver's license is required​.

Job Location - City, State

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Department / School

Morris Arboretum

Pay Range

$7.25 - $16.00 Hourly Rate

Salary offers are made based on the candidate’s qualifications, experience, skills, and education as they directly relate to the requirements of the position, and in alignment with salary ranges based on external market data for the job’s level. Internal organization and peer data at Penn are also considered.

Equal Opportunity Statement

The University of Pennsylvania is an equal opportunity employer. Candidates are considered for employment without regard to race, color, sex, sexual orientation, religion, creed, national origin (including shared ancestry or ethnic characteristics) , citizenship status, age, disability, veteran status or any class protected under applicable federal, state or local law .

Special Requirements A background check may be required after a conditional job offer is made. Consideration of the background check will be tailored to the requirements of the job.

University Benefits

+ Health and Life: Penn offers comprehensive medical, prescription, behavioral health, dental, vision, and life insurance benefits to protect you and your family’s health and welfare.

+ Retirement: Penn offers generous retirement plans to help you save for your future. Penn’s Basic, Matching, and Supplemental retirement plans allow you to save for retirement on a pre-tax or Roth basis. Choose from a wide variety of investment options through TIAA and Vanguard.

Please note that benefit eligibility is determined/based on ACA guidelines.

The University of Pennsylvania’s special character is reflected in the wide variety of backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives of the Penn community. We seek talented faculty and staff who will constitute a vibrant community and help create an educational and working environment that best supports the University’s commitment to excellence in teaching, research, and scholarship. The University of Pennsylvania is an equal opportunity employer. Candidates are considered for employment without regard to race, color, sex, sexual orientation, religion, creed, national origin (including shared ancestry or ethnic characteristics), citizenship status, age, disability, veteran status, or any class protected under applicable federal, state or local law.