Botanical Garden Assistant #T00983

Please see Special Instructions for more details.

Applicants must apply online.

PLEASE COMPLETE ALL AREAS OF THE APPLICATION. INCOMPLETE APPLICATIONS MAY NOT BE GIVEN CONSIDERATION IN THE REVIEW PROCESS.

Qualified applicants will be contacted by the department directly if selected for interview.

Please note:

Temporary employees are paid bi‑weekly on an hourly basis and do not receive benefits.

Compensation: $13.00/hr., 40 hours per week, with on‑site housing free of charge. Duration:
Beginning mid‑May through August, specific dates are negotiable.

Highlands Biological Station (HBS) is a scientific research station focused on the research and education of the natural heritage of the Highlands Plateau while preserving the biological richness of the southern Appalachian Mountains. HBS is a multi‑campus center of Western Carolina University and is comprised of the Highlands Nature Center, Highlands Botanical Garden, William Chambers Coker Laboratory, and the Richard

C. Bruce Biodiversity Laboratory. HBS also holds several on‑site housing options for visiting researchers, students, and interns.

The Botanical Garden Assistant(s) will report to the Highlands Biological Station Horticultural Specialist and will be an integral member of the HBS staff. The selected applicants will help to maintain the grounds and gardens, trails, boardwalks, and bridges throughout the 24‑acre campus. In addition, they will assist in identification, record‑keeping, and maintenance of more than 450 native plant species. This position will include working with volunteer groups and the general public to interpret the natural history of the local ecology and identify native plant species within the garden.

This is an exceptional learning opportunity aimed at gaining valuable career experience caring for gardens and natural areas, planning and executing projects, and working with volunteers.

Botanical Garden Assistants have the option of staying in on‑site shared housing for the duration of the summer, free of charge.

The successful applicant will assist in all aspects of botanic garden operations including the use of proper horticultural practices and power equipment. Tasks will include: planting, pruning, raking, weed management, trail maintenance, curation, and plant record keeping. They will gain hands‑on experience identifying and cultivating native plants in a natural and cultivated setting.

• Must be able to move, rotate, or stoop on uneven terrain.
• Must be comfortable working from a ladder, lift, and other high places.
• Must be comfortable and properly use heavy equipment, i.e. backhoe, tractor, chainsaw, canycom, wood chipper, etc.
• Must be prepared to work outdoors under all conditions, including heat, cold, rain, and with occasional exposure to biting and stinging insects.
• Must be comfortable engaging with the volunteers and other diverse audiences.
• Responsible, reliable, and dependable.
• Occasional evening and weekend support may be required.

The Botanical Garden Assistant helps to identify, label, and maintain native plant species; and maintain grounds and gardens, trails, boardwalks, and bridges throughout the Station. This position may include working with the public to interpret the natural history of local plants and assisting with identification of native plant species. This job may involve heavy lifting (no more than 50 lbs.) and will sometimes involve working alone and in rainy weather.

Occasionally, the individual will be asked to assist other Station employees in the office, library, or Nature Center.

The ideal candidate should possess a strong passion for horticulture and have a specific interest in native plants. Valid Driver’s License required.

Priority will be given to students pursuing a degree in biology, botany, horticulture, environmental science, or a related subject. Strong ornamental plant identification skills, familiarity with southeastern plant species, and prior public horticulture experience is desirable. Recent graduates and early‑career individuals are also invited to apply.