Job Listing: Horticulturist Assistant (Norfolk Botanical Garden)

Horticulturist Assistant

Position type: Seasonal employment, early-May to mid-October. Non-exempt under Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA).

Compensation: $15 per hour

Description: The Horticulturist Assistant position is an entry-level position perfect for someone wishing to gain practical horticultural experience. This role will help to perform all aspects of display bed maintenance in the assigned area to set a standard of horticulture excellence under the direct supervision of a Horticulturist or a Curator. Ideal candidates for this position would be team players passionate in the field of Horticulture & available Monday-Friday 7:00am-3:30pm with occasional weekend availability.

Essential Functions:

· Assist Horticulturists in maintaining gardens and collections through weeding, watering, pruning, deadheading, mulching, edging, raking, fertilization and pesticide application.

· Perform the appropriate soil preparation and planting procedures.

· Works alongside other members of the Horticulture Dept. on team projects. The ability to work in a team environment is essential.

· Operate small engine equipment safely such as the golf cart, weed-eater, blower, edger, etc. (training provided)

· Clean and use hand tools and equipment responsibly.

· Assist their assigned Horticulturists in performing the basic tasks in their area when the Horticulturist is not present.

· Assists with Garden-wide special events and other duties as assigned.

Essential Physical Functions:

· Ability to lift up to 50 lbs.

· Ability to drive a golf cart.

· Ability to work outside for 8 hours in heat, cold or light rain and can continuously walk, stand, bend, twist and/or stoop.

· Has the ability to push, pull and perform manual labor during working hours.

· Ability to work on a ladder for extended periods.

Qualifications:

· A valid driver’s license is required.

· One-year practical horticultural experience preferred, but related experience is also considered and valued. Priority will be given to any applicant with an Associate’s Degree in Horticulture, or related field, or someone who is currently pursuing a degree.

· Interest and the ability to learn and perform horticultural practices preferred.

· Must be willing to work alongside horticulturists using fertilizers, insecticides, fungicides and herbicides with the label stated safety precautions.

Benefits:

· Staff discounts on programming and gift shop.

· NBG logo wear for work provided.

· EAP services for all employees.

Reports to: Curator

Equal Employer Opportunity (EEO) statement: NBG is committed to the principles and ideals of equal employment opportunity. It is, and shall continue to be, the policy and practice throughout NBG to foster equal employment opportunity and non-discrimination for applicants, employees, and volunteers without regard to race, color, sex, religion, national origin, age, marital status, disability status, sexual orientation, gender identity, pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions including lactation, status as a veteran, or other protected status, if qualified to perform the essential functions of the job with or without reasonable accommodation.

Send resumes & applications to hr@nbgs.org