Horticulture 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.

Posted Job Title

Horticulture Apprentice; Morris Arboretum & Gardens

Job Profile Title

Temporary Employee - Non-Exempt

Job Description Summary

The Horticulture Apprentice program at Morris Arboretum & Gardens is designed to prepare individuals with a strong passion for plants and their care for careers in public gardens. Working alongside a team of horticultural professionals, Apprentices receive hands-on training in all aspects of garden management and the care of living collections, with an emphasis on developing practical horticulture skills.

Apprentices gain exposure to a wide range of garden environments and responsibilities, including plant care, equipment operation, and volunteer coordination. The program also includes monthly educational opportunities that provide insight into broader aspects of public garden operations.

This is a part-time position, with work hours up to 40 hours per week depending on operational needs and pays $16.00 an hour.

Job Description

Duties and Responsibilities

• Assist with garden maintenance tasks, including weeding, pruning, planting, mulching, and turf care.

• Learn to identify weeds and implement appropriate control methods.

• Apply pruning techniques consistent with CODIT (Compartmentalization of Decay in Trees) principles; assist with formative pruning of plant collections.

• Demonstrate proper pesticide use, including handling, mixing, application, and equipment clean-up.

• Participate in watering schedules, including weekend rotations for plant and container care.

• Contribute to Horticulture Department project days and seasonal initiatives.

• Serve as a garden ambassador by interacting with visitors in a professional and welcoming manner.

• Assist in directing horticulture volunteers under the guidance of section leaders.

• Learn to safely operate horticultural equipment, including: Small Equipment (string trimmer, push mower, leaf blower, snow thrower); Large Equipment (golf cart, riding mower, tractor, dump truck, backhoe); and Arborist Equipment (chainsaw, chipper).

• Perform additional duties as assigned.

Qualifications / Requirements

High school diploma or GED required; associate’s or bachelor’s degree in horticulture or related field preferred.

Demonstrated passion for horticulture, plants, and the natural world.

Ability to communicate effectively with a diverse visitor population.

Ability to work both independently and as part of a team.

Ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions.

Ability to lift at least 25 lbs.

Valid driver’s license required.

Work Environment

The Horticulture Apprenticeship is a hands-on, outdoor program focused on maintaining the Arboretum’s diverse garden spaces, including the Rose Garden, woodland areas, ornamental gardens, and shade gardens. Apprentices rotate between garden areas on a weekly basis and may also gain exposure to work in natural areas. Work is performed outdoors year-round in varying weather conditions.

About the Division of Business Services

The Business Services Division (BSD) supports the individual and collective needs of the Penn community by promoting a hospitable, customer-friendly campus environment and providing mission-critical services and essential operations. BSD is dedicated to delivering high-quality service in a fiscally responsible manner.

Currently, the Division focuses on three major initiatives:

• Revenue growth and retention through improved marketing efforts, extended services, and new distribution channels
• Driving productivity through the effective use of technology
• Enhancing service offerings through upgrades and expansions of facilities

For more information about the Division of Business Services, visit: https://www.business-services.upenn.edu

About Morris Arboretum & Gardens

Morris Arboretum & Gardens of the University of Pennsylvania inspires an understanding of the relationship between plants and people through education, research, and horticultural displays. Located in the Northwest section of Philadelphia, the Arboretum is home to a collection of more than 13,000 woody plants and serves as a destination for plant enthusiasts and a hub for botany, horticulture, and urban forestry.

For more information, visit: https://www.morrisarboretum.org

Job Location - City, State

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Department / School

Morris Arboretum

Pay Range

$7.25 - $16.00 Hourly Rate

Salary offers are made based on the candidate’s qualifications, experience, skills, and education as they directly relate to the requirements of the position, and in alignment with salary ranges based on external market data for the job’s level. Internal organization and peer data at Penn are also considered.

Equal Opportunity Statement

The University of Pennsylvania is an equal opportunity employer. Candidates are considered for employment without regard to race, color, sex, sexual orientation, religion, creed, national origin (including shared ancestry or ethnic characteristics), citizenship status, age, disability, veteran status or any class protected under applicable federal, state or local law.

Special Requirements 
A background check may be required after a conditional job offer is made. Consideration of the background check will be tailored to the requirements of the job.

University Benefits

• Health and Life: Penn offers comprehensive medical, prescription, behavioral health, dental, vision, and life insurance benefits to protect you and your family’s health and welfare.
• Retirement: Penn offers generous retirement plans to help you save for your future. Penn’s Basic, Matching, and Supplemental retirement plans allow you to save for retirement on a pre-tax or Roth basis. Choose from a wide variety of investment options through TIAA and Vanguard.

Please note that benefit eligibility is determined/based on ACA guidelines.