Plant Propagation Apprentice - Morris Arboretum & Gardens

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.

Plant Propagation Apprentice - Morris Arboretum & Gardens

Temporary Employee - Non‑Exempt

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.

Plant Propagation Apprenticeship covers the whole range of traditional plant propagation skills and production schemes. The Apprentice will spend 12 months (expected duration of apprenticeship) receiving hands‑on training in seed and cutting propagation, nursery and greenhouse management, organic pest control and maintenance of a unique Victorian Fernery. Emphasis is placed on the refinement of skills and developing the protocols for the propagation and care of a vast range of woody and herbaceous plants.

This position is supported by the Martha J. Wallace Plant Propagation 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.

• Seed, division and cutting propagation, potting, watering and pruning.
• Assist with the production of 5,000 container plants annually for use in the gardens and for distribution.
• Data collection and inventory management.
• Management of the field nursery, pest, and disease monitoring.
• Scheduling weekend and holiday watering.
• Complete a project under the direction of propagator.
• Participate in monthly education trips as scheduled.
• Supervise volunteers as required.
• Perform fernery maintenance.
• Perform additional duties as assigned.

• Degree in horticulture or related field, with coursework in propagation and nursery management.
• Prior experience in nursery, greenhouse and or plant science research work helpful.
• Some weekend work required.
• Need to work independently and as part of a team in a friendly, visitor‑centric environment.
• Must work in all weather conditions.
• Must be able to lift at least 25lbs.
• Requires standing, stooping and walking for long periods of time.

In addition to the online application, applicants are required to provide the following supporting documents:

• Cover letter/Letter of intent
• One Letter of recommendation
• College transcripts (unofficial acceptable)

The supporting documents may be uploaded with the online application (uploads are limited to 3 documents).

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Morris Arboretum

$7.25 - $16.00 Hourly Rate

The University of Pennsylvania is an equal opportunity employer. Candidates are considered for employment without regard to race, color, sex, sexual…