Garden Supervisor

Trustees of University of Pennsylvania; United States; On-site; USD 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

The Garden Supervisor at the University of Pennsylvania manages day-to-day care and development of a 3.5 acre garden on campus. You will supervise staff, oversee plant care, and assist with events while maintaining safety and adherence to the park's standards.

You will work closely with the Greenhouse and Garden Manager to implement improvements, expand plant collections, and support research projects across the Biology Department.

Qualifications

• Associate of Science in horticulture or equivalent plus 2–3 years of horticulture experience.
• Experience must include plant identification and knowledge of mid-Atlantic region plants.
• Must hold or obtain PA Commercial Pesticide Applicator's License within 4 months.
• Ability to operate standard landscaping equipment safely (lawn mowers, blowers, trimmers, tractor, chainsaw).
• Must be able to work in varied weather conditions and regularly lift 25 lbs or more.

Responsibilities

• Perform and supervise all aspects of plant care and garden maintenance in Kaskey Park.
• Train and supervise seasonal, part-time, and temporary workers.
• Maintain ponds, pumps, lines, and aeration systems to support a healthy ecosystem.
• Collaborate with Greenhouse and Garden Manager on short- and long-term goals.
• Assist with setup, cleanup, and scheduling of garden events.

Skills

Plant identification

Team supervision

Physical stamina

Education

Associate of Science in horticulture

PA Dept. of Agriculture Pesticide Applicator License

Job description

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.

The University offers a competitive benefits package that includes excellent healthcare and tuition benefits for employees and their families, generous retirement benefits, a wide variety of professional development opportunities, supportive work and family benefits, a wealth of health and wellness programs and resources, and much more.

Posted Job Title

Garden Supervisor

Job Profile Title

Greenhouse Coordinator

Job Description Summary

The James G. Kaskey Memorial Park is a 3.5 acre garden located on the southwest corner of the University of Pennsylvania campus. It is a unique oasis that has been under the care of the Biology Department for over 100 years. The Biopond, at the heart of the garden, is one of the few remaining original features and attracts students, faculty, staff and community members throughout the year.

Job Description

The Garden Supervisor is a professional horticulturist responsible for the day-to-day upkeep and development of a 3.5 acre garden located on the University of Pennsylvania's campus. They are responsible for overseeing or performing all aspects of plant care (except arboriculture work), keeping the garden safe and clean, and assisting with events and group rentals. They are responsible for supervising and training the seasonal garden assistant and may assist with interns and student workers as needed. They work closely with the Greenhouse and Garden Manager to plan and implement improvements. The Garden Supervisor is required to become familiar with all aspects of Kaskey Park including the plant collections, history, physical structures and mechanical systems. They are to perform their work according to the highest industry standards, working towards and within the mission of Kaskey Park. The Garden Supervisor will also greet visitors, conduct tours of the grounds, and assist student and faculty researchers with projects as needed.

Duties/Job Responsibilities

• Perform and supervise all aspects of plant care and garden maintenance throughout Kaskey Park. This includes plant installation and upkeep and maintaining cleanliness of the grounds.
• Train and supervise seasonal, part time, and temporary workers.
• Pond Maintenance: clean and maintain pumps, water lines, and aeration systems. Add plants, water amendments and work toward creating a balanced, healthy ecosystem.
• Work closely with Greenhouse and Garden Manager, as well as the Garden Committee, to create and execute short term, seasonal, and long-term goals pertaining to the health and development of the garden and pond.
• Repair and maintain garden tools including 2 and 4 cycle engines, sharpen tools, and keep a clean and organized environment in the shed and other support areas.
• Interface with students, faculty and staff within the Biology Department as needed. Assist with research projects and labs. Work with Facilities and Arboretum Staff to facilitate projects and maintenance.
• Assist Greenhouse and Garden Manager with setup, cleanup and scheduling of events within the garden.
• Outreach - may include giving tours, answering questions, and contributing to the website
• Perform additional duties as assigned

Qualifications

• Associate of Science and 2 to 3 years of horticulture experience, or equivalent combination of education and experience
• Experience must include plant identification and excellent working knowledge of plants hardy to the mid-Atlantic region, planting, pruning, weeding, seasonal garden management, plant record-keeping, propagation, and weed management.
• Must have a valid Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture Commercial Pesticide Applicator's License or be able to acquire one within 4 months.
• Must be able to safely operate standard landscaping equipment - lawn mowers, blowers, string trimmers, tractor, and chain saw.
• Ability and willingness to work in varied weather conditions.
• Ability to frequently lift 25 lbs or more.
• Work involves a high level of physical activity inclu