Seasonal Gardener

Greenwood Gardens, a nonprofit public garden and historic site, is seeking a Seasonal Gardener to join our horticulture team.

OVERVIEW

Greenwood Gardens is a 28-acre public garden and historic site in Short Hills, NJ. Originally a private estate, Greenwood was incorporated as a non-profit organization in 2003 and made accessible to the public in 2013. Greenwood is an enchanted hideaway, graced with terraced gardens, ornate fountains, garden rooms with Arts and Crafts follies, London plane tree allées, and views of the South Mountain Reservation. Since undertaking capital projects in 2019 and 2020 in which we added substantial parking capacity; renovated the core portion of the historic garden, including two water features and major portions of the landscape; and having most recently neared completion of the restoration of the Cascade water feature, , Greenwood’s potential for continued growth calls for increased expertise and attention to be directed toward horticulture as a means of attracting new visitors, members, donors, and volunteers who ensure our ability to carry out and sustain our mission.

The Seasonal Gardener reports to the Director of Horticulture and works closely with senior staff to receive guidance and training. The Seasonal Gardener will be expected to work with volunteers and help with occasional events. Greenwood is a small organization – a highly positive attitude and a strong work ethic are essential.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Assist in the establishment of new perennial and shrub borders, the installation of seasonal annual beds, and woodland restoration projects.
• Perform routine horticultural tasks including planting, weeding, mulching, and watering of display beds.
• Maintain assigned garden areas to the highest standard including detailed garden care such as deadheading, grooming, and staking.
• Monitor plant health care and report concerns as needed.
• Operate power equipment including hedge trimmers, string trimmers and leaf blowers.
• Work collaboratively with staff and volunteers.

JOB REQUIREMENTS

• The ideal candidate should be able to perform at the highest standards of garden maintenance and be able to demonstrate an understanding of the aesthetic presentation of plants and garden design.
• One to two years of experience in a public garden or other fine gardening setting.
• Familiarity with local and ornamental plant species and keen plant identification skills a must.
• Ability to safely and properly use hand tools.
• Ability to follow instructions, take initiative, and work independently as well as part of a team.
• Experience operating power garden vehicles, lawn mowers, string trimmers and blowers a plus.
• Must be physically fit and able to lift at least 50lbs.
• Must possess a valid driver’s license.

HOURS AND COMPENSATION

Compensation: Salary ranges $25-28 per hour based on experience. 37.5 hours per week. Start ASAP.

TO APPLY

Send a cover letter or a short statement outlining professional objectives and a resume to: rmurphy@greenwoodgardens.org with the header ‘Seasonal Gardener’.