Natural Areas Apprentice - Morris Arboretum & Gardens - University of Pennsylvania

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

Natural Areas Apprentice - Morris Arboretum & Gardens





Job Profile Title

Temporary Employee - Non-Exempt





Job Description Summary

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.


The Natural Areas Apprenticeship is seeking individuals with a strong passion for environmental land management. Apprentices receive hands-on training in all aspects of garden management and care of the living collections. Specific emphasis is placed on refining a wide range of practical land management/horticulture skills. Interns also assist in supervising volunteers. Through monthly educational opportunities, apprentices will gain knowledge and insight into other aspects of managing public gardens.





Job Description


The Natural Areas is made up of 45 acres on the public garden side of the Arboretum, which includes a 3-acre wetland, meadows, stream, woodland, and the main entrance. In addition, the historic 65-acre Bloomfield Farm property includes research plots, meadows, a floodplain, privately administered community gardens, a woody plant nursery, green roofs, a platinum LEED certified Horticulture Center, a historic grist mill, and the Arboretum’s materials handling site.




The Hay Honey Farm Endowed Natural Areas Apprentice receives hands-on training in all phases of ecological garden development and care of the more than 100 acres of Natural Lands at the Morris Arboretum. Emphasis is placed on refining practical horticultural skills and the safe use and care of small and large power equipment; supervisory skills are developed by directing the activities of volunteers and seasonal employees.




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.




Responsibilities

+ Assist with all garden tasks, including weeding, pruning, planting, mulching, and turf care.

+ Learn to properly identify weeds and implement control methods.

+ Demonstrate pruning skills and assist in formative pruning of the Arboretum's plant collection.

+ Demonstrate knowledge of proper pesticide use--handling, mixing, applying, and clean-up of pesticide equipment.

+ Take part in watering plants and containers on a rotating weekend schedule.

+ Participate in the Horticulture Department's project days.

+ Learn to operate the Natural Areas machinery.

+ Perform additional duties as requested.






Qualifications & Requirements

+ A strong academic background in environmental studies, horticulture, or a field that is closely related.

+ Be able and willing to communicate with Arboretum visitors.

+ Be able and willing to work independently and as part of a team.

+ Be able and willing to work in all weather conditions.

+ Be able and willing to lift at least 25 lbs.

+ A valid driver's license is required.






Work Environment


The Natural Areas Apprenticeship is a hands-on program that assists in the care of maintenance of the Arboretum's extensive wildlife habitat. Outdoor work is required from March to November. Priorities include planting, mowing, weed control, watering, and protecting new plantings from deer. Other tasks include pruning, brush clearing, and meadow mowing.






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, as well as internal and market factors and grade profile.








Affirmative Action Statement Penn adheres to a policy that prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, creed, national or ethnic origin, citizenship status, age, disability, veteran status, or any other legally protected class.




Special Requirements 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.



The University of Pennsylvania's special character is reflected in the diversity of the Penn community. We seek talented faculty and staff who will constitute a vibrant community that draws on the strength that comes with a substantive institutional commitment to diversity along dimensions of race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, age, religion, disability, veteran status, interests, perspectives, and socioeconomic status. Grounded in equal opportunity, nondiscrimination, and affirmative action, Penn's robust commitment to diversity is fundamental to the University's mission of advancing knowledge, educating leaders for all sectors of society, and public service. The University of Pennsylvania prohibits unlawful discrimination based on race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, creed, national or ethnic origin, citizenship status, age, disability, veteran status, or any other legally protected class.