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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

Horticulture Apprentice - 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 Horticulture Apprenticeship is designed to prepare individuals with a strong passion for plants and their care for a career in public gardens. Working with a team of horticultural experts, Apprentices receive hands-on training in all aspects of garden management and care of the living collections, with specific emphasis placed on refining a wide range of practical horticulture skills. Apprentices will also gain management experience by assisting in supervising volunteers. Through monthly educational opportunities, Apprentices will gain knowledge and insight into other aspects of public gardens.

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 and Responsibilities

+ Assist with all garden tasks, including weeding, pruning, planting, mulching, and turf care.

+ Learn to properly identify weeds and implement control methods.

+ 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.

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

+ Participate in the Horticulture Department's project days.

+ Interact with visitors as garden ambassadors.

+ Direct horticulture volunteers under the section leader’s guidance.

+ Learn to operate the following garden machinery:Small Equipment Operation - weed whacker, push mower, string trimmer, leaf blower, snow throwerLarge Equipment Operation - golf cart, riding mower, backhoe, tractor, dump truckArborist Equipment Operation - chainsaw, chipper

+ Perform additional duties as requested

Qualifications/Requirements

+ A high school diploma or GED is required, and an associate's degree or bachelor’s degree in a related field is preferred.

+ Demonstrate a passion for horticulture, plants, and the natural world,

+ Be able and willing to communicate with diverse Arboretum visitors,

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

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

+ Be able and willing to lift at least 25 lbs.,

+ A valid driver's license is required.

Work Environment

The Horticulture Apprenticeship is a hands-on program that assists in the maintenance of the Arboretum's outdoor gardens, including the Rose Garden, woodland garden, ornamental gardens, and shade gardens. The apprentices work alongside the horticulture staff in all weather, rain or shine. Each Apprentice will rotate between the garden areas on a weekly basis and have some exposure to work in the natural areas as well.

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.