Gardener

Job Description

The part-time gardener is a critical part of our team and is budgeted for approximately 16-24 hours per week (2-3 days). The gardener reports to the horticulture manager and works with volunteers, interns, and other staff to maintain the plant collection and associated facilities, including:

• Weeding planting beds and pathways
• Managing green waste, including hauling, chopping and chipping
• Planting, transplanting, and removing trees, shrubs, and perennials
• Assisting in maintaining the garden's extensive irrigation system
• Keeping grounds and facilities clean and guest-ready

• Pruning shrubs and trees
• Applying organic fertilizers, soil amendments, compost, and mulches
• Diagnosing and managing plant pests using integrated pest management (IPM)

• Assisting in our nursery operations, including propagating plants from seed, cuttings, and division, and potting and preparing plants for sale
• Identifying areas for design improvements, using both plantings and hardscapes
• Assisting in maintaining collection records and documenting changes to the collection

• At least three years of experience in gardening, landscaping, or other hands-on plant care
• Working knowledge of soil sciences and how to maintain healthy soils
• Basic grasp of integrated pest management (IPM) strategies
• Experience installing and repairing drip lines, sprinklers, controllers, and other irrigation.
• Strong communication skills and interest in open dialogue when issues of concern arise
• Comfortable and efficient when working independently
• Ability to safely operate a variety of hand and power garden tools

• Knowledge of plant identification and growing requirements for California natives, Mediterranean climate, and Asian temperate plants
• Knowing how and when to prune trees to encourage healthy growth and flowering
• Ability to successfully collaborate with the horticulture team to identify priorities and develop work strategies
• Experience designing and constructing garden elements, both planting design and hardscape.
• Spanish-speaking is a plus
• Graduate of or enrolled in an accredited horticulture program is a plus

• Positive attitude and desire to work with a diverse team
• Safely lift and carry up to 50 lbs
• Bend, squat, kneel, reach, walk, ascend and descend ladders, and work with hands for extended periods of time
• Willingness and physical ability to work outdoors in a variety of weather conditions
• Occasionally conduct work around hazardous materials and equipment

$24-$28 / hour commensurate with experience.