Seasonal Horticulture Assistant (Bowyer Farm)

Seasonal Horticulture Assistant (Bowyer Farm) Location: Bowyer Farm (2210 Mason Montgomery Rd, Mason, OH 45040) Company: Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden Employment Type: Part-Time / Seasonal Position Overview Bowyer Farm is the Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden's 600‑acre satellite property that includes a vast nursery complex, natural lands and one of the largest solar arrays in the region. The Horticulture Department is seeking a reliable and hardworking Horticulture Assistant to support daily operations and maintenance activities in all working areas of Bowyer Farm, with a special focus on the solar array perimeter. A passion for horticulture and ecology is essential. This is an outstanding opportunity to expand your knowledge in the care, identification and maintenance of plants and landscapes. A positive attitude and strong work ethic are required to fit in with our team. Key Responsibilities Management of cultivated landscapes and natural lands, with a focus on landscapes that border our extensive solar arrays , including but not limited to: planting, mulching, watering, pruning, staking, mowing, weeding, removing invasive species and herbicide application (as needed) Assist with all facets of plant production, including but not limited to: potting, transplanting, propagating, watering, weeding, labeling, organizing, preparing orders, seed collecting, leading volunteer crews and assisting with native plant sales. Qualifications Education and/or experience in horticulture preferred Must be able to lift and move 50 pounds without mechanical assistance Valid driver's license and be insurable (to drive a Zoo vehicle) Interest in native plants, horticulture and ecology Strong work ethic and attention to detail Ability to work independently and as part of a team Preferred Skills Basic knowledge of plant identification, including native species Comfortability with Microsoft suite and basic computer applications Experience with hand tools, small equipment and irrigation systems Understanding of basic growing practices Working Conditions Employment is contingent upon passing a pre‑employment, post‑offer drug screen and background check. Bowyer Farm is a fully operational nursery complex that requires 7‑day care and often hosts weekend plant sales. The ability to work a flexible schedule including holidays & weekends is required . While performing the duties of the job, the incumbent is regularly required to stand, walk and use manual dexterity with various tools, machines and equipment. The job requires the ability to bend regularly. The incumbent is also regularly exposed to various weather conditions and a wide diversity of plant material in greenhouses, hoophouses and outdoor growing areas. Other Requirements for all Horticulture Assistants May operate motorized landscaping equipment (string trimmers, blowers, reciprocating saws, hedge trimmers, tillers) and vehicles (dump trucks, vans, golf carts, John Deere tractors and trailers) Safe handling and responsible application of herbicides, when necessary Support other departmental crews during peak seasons, such as planting annuals/tulips in the spring/fall, potting in the nursery, and during installation of new landscapes Ability to be a good teammate and model the Zoo's Core Values Job Details Duration: Positions will run for various periods of time. Expected start date March 2026. Hours: Variable hours, ranging from 20‑40 per week Pay Rate: Depending on experience Key Perks & Benefits Fun & engaging work environment Ability to earn Paid Time Off Complimentary Zoo passes Discount on food & retail on Zoo grounds Positive team culture Flexible scheduling (Student Friendly) Free Metro Bus Pass provided for duration of employment Personal & professional development opportunities (career development, education, training, etc.) #J-18808-Ljbffr