Greater Philadelphia Cultural Alliance

Horticulture Apprentice

Job Description

The Horticulture Apprenticeship is designed to prepare individuals with a strong passion for plants and their care for a career in public gardens. Working with a team of horticultural experts, Apprentices receive hands-on training in all aspects of garden management and care of the living collections, with specific emphasis placed on refining a wide range of practical horticulture skills. Apprentices will also gain management experience by assisting in supervising volunteers. Through monthly educational opportunities, Apprentices will gain knowledge and insight into other aspects of public gardens. 

Duties and 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 using CODIT philosophy 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.

Interact with visitors as garden ambassadors.

Direct horticulture volunteers under the section leader’s guidance.

Learn to operate the following garden machinery:
Small Equipment Operation - weed whacker, push mower, string trimmer, leaf blower, snow thrower
Large Equipment Operation - golf cart, riding mower, backhoe, tractor, dump truck
Arborist Equipment Operation - chainsaw, chipper

Perform additional duties as requested

Qualifications/Requirements

A high school diploma or GED is required, and an associate's degree or bachelor’s degree in a related field is preferred.

Demonstrate a passion for horticulture, plants, and the natural world,

Be able and willing to communicate with diverse 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 Horticulture Apprenticeship is a hands-on program that assists in the maintenance of the Arboretum's outdoor gardens, including the Rose Garden, woodland garden, ornamental gardens, and shade gardens. The apprentices work alongside the horticulture staff in all weather, rain or shine. Each apprentice will be assigned a horticulturist to work with but has the opportunity to work in other areas of the garden during team project days. 

The Horticulture Apprenticeship is designed to prepare individuals with a strong passion for plants and their care for a career in public gardens. Working with a team of horticultural experts, Apprentices receive hands-on training in all aspects of garden management and care of the living collections, with specific emphasis placed on refining a wide range of practical horticulture skills.