Assistant Horticulturist Posting date: October 27th, 2025
Company information:
The Chanticleer Foundation is a non‑profit organization that operates a 50‑acre public garden in Wayne, PA. The garden is open to the public daily Wednesday to Sunday, from late March through early November. Chanticleer provides an opportunity for guests to relax and enjoy the various garden areas and vistas on the property. The Chanticleer staff work in a professional, team‑oriented, and smoke‑free environment. Continual training and education in the green industry is encouraged.
Job description:
The Assistant Horticulturist will maintain the overall visual quality and horticultural standards of assigned areas, meeting Chanticleer’s high expectations. This full‑time position is well suited for a proficient horticulturist and provides valuable training, networking connections, and professional growth at one of America’s most beautiful gardens.
Position Details
- Schedule: up to 40 hours per week, typically Mon. – Fri., [7:30am-4:00pm]
- Weekend Rotation: as scheduled by supervisor.
- Compensation Rate: commensurate with experience.
- Benefits: Medical, dental, life insurance & disability benefits are provided. 403b participation with generous matching, paid time off, flexible holiday schedule, equipment reimbursement, smoke‑free workplace.
- Professional Development Opportunities: Hands‑on experience at a world‑class public garden, mentorship from expert horticulturists, exposure to diverse horticultural practices, access to industry workshops and educational seminars, networking opportunities within the public garden and horticulture community, educational travel opportunities.
Duties and Responsibilities
- Maintain visual quality and horticultural standards of assigned areas to meet Chanticleer’s high expectations.
- Perform various plant care tasks including:
- Mow lawns and water plants
- Edge planting areas and lawns
- Weed gardens and displays
- Deadhead flowers, cultivate, pinch, tie, transplant, and prune plants
- Plant and replant grass, flowers, trees, and shrubs
- Propagate plants and prepare soils
- Arrange plants in various designs
- Apply fertilizers, soil amendments, and bio‑stimulants
- Manage horticultural waste in an environmentally responsible manner.
- Maintain pesticide license, participate in annual training, and apply pesticides as needed.
- Perform general garden maintenance:
- Blow and collect leaves
- Remove trash
- Spread salt on walkways and remove snow
- Scout grounds daily for plant health, safety issues, and maintenance needs.
- Commit to ongoing professional development and staying current with horticultural best practices.
- Conduct tours and respond to visitor inquiries as requested.
- Assist with facilities and furniture maintenance, including painting and refinishing.
- Communicate effectively with team members, supervisors, and visitors to ensure smooth operations and collaborative work environment.
- Adhere to Chanticleer’s operational policies, guidelines, and safety procedures.
- Performs additional duties and responsibilities as assigned.
Required Skills and Abilities
- Demonstrated knowledge of plant care, landscaping principles, and horticultural practices
- Proficiency in safe operation and basic maintenance of landscaping equipment
- Strong attention to detail and commitment to maintaining high‑quality gardens
- Excellent time management skills and ability to prioritize tasks
- Capacity to work independently and collaboratively within a team environment
- Effective communication skills, both verbal and written
- Adaptability to changing weather conditions and seasonal work requirements
- Perform physical tasks including lifting/carrying up to 50 lbs., standing and working for extended periods, operating in varying weather conditions, and frequent bending, stooping, kneeling, and reaching.
Education and Experience
- High school diploma or equivalent required
- Formal and on‑the‑job training in horticulture and design, or related fields required
- Additional certifications or training in arboriculture or horticulture a plus
Work Environment
- Work is performed primarily outdoors in the gardens and grounds of Chanticleer.
- Employees are exposed to seasonal weather conditions, plant materials, pollen, and dust.
- Use of personal protective equipment such as gloves, safety glasses, and hearing protection may be required.
- Occasional work in greenhouses or indoor facilities as needed.
- Weekend work is required from late March to early November.
Legal Requirements
- Must be legally authorized to work in the United States.
- Possess and maintain a valid driver’s license with a clean driving record.
We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. Chanticleer flourishes by embracing multiple perspectives and experiences just as biodiversity strengthens ecosystems. We believe that welcoming people of all abilities, identities, and circumstances strengthens our institution and enhances our capacity to bring joy and learning to all who visit our gardens