PART-TIME GROWER ASSISTANT

Job Description

Job Description

As one of the great gardens of the world located just 30 miles outside of Philadelphia, Longwood Gardens is rooted in a steadfast mission of bringing joy and inspiration to everyone through the beauty of nature, conservation, and learning. Across our many departments, each and every staff member creates the magic that makes our Gardens distinctive. Our team of dynamic professionals is what sets us apart, and our spirit of legacy, innovation, and opportunity is what guides us. While beauty is our heart, our people are our soul.

Longwood Gardens is seeking part-time Greenhouse Grower Assistant to support our Floriculture team. The individual in this position will perform a variety of tasks under the direction of our experienced Growers. Tasks for this position will be performed in small groups and independently. Responsibilities include:

• Staking, tying, pinching/pruning, potting, transplanting, watering, fertilizing, soil mixing, irrigation maintenance, and assisting with the upkeep and cleanliness of work areas.
• Grooming plants, including specialty crops such as baskets and standards, as they are prepared for display throughout the Gardens.
• Transporting potted plants to and from growing areas, which involves occasionally working around trucks, lift gates, forklifts, and utility vehicles.
• Assisting Growers with daily crop care and production tasks, following established cultural practices and instructions.
• Providing coverage for Growers’ responsibilities during their absence, as directed.
• Learning and utilizing crop scheduling software and assist Growers with crop scheduling, inventory, and data recording.
• Monitoring plant health, pest and disease issues, and overall crop quality, communicating observations to Growers.
• Propagating, planting, and other crop production activities as needed.
• Maintaining organized, clean, and safe greenhouse and work areas.
• Assisting with the preparation, installation, maintenance, and removal of seasonal and holiday displays.

The ideal candidate will have:

• Prior horticulture experience preferred but not required
• Experience working with a team and independently
• The ability to lift at least 50 pounds on a consistent basis
• The ability to sit, stand, or walk for long periods of time
• A valid driver’s license
• The ability to work in a variety of weather conditions
• The ability to work 20-28 hours per week

Schedule: 28 hours across 3-4 days a week, starting at 7:00 AM

Longwood Gardens is committed to nurturing a diverse and inclusive environment that celebrates the complexities and differences of all living things. We welcome and respect diverse backgrounds, life experiences, and perspectives. Diversity creates a more beautiful world, sparks innovation, and unites us.