Gardener - Seasonal

Indianapolis Zoo; Indianapolis (IN); On-site; Full time

Job summary

Join the Indianapolis Zoo as a Seasonal Gardener and work outdoors caring for a beautiful 93-acre campus. Ideal candidates will be team-oriented, willing to learn, and able to perform physical tasks. This role offers valuable experience in horticulture while supporting the Zoo's mission to protect nature.

Qualifications

• Must be 18 years old with a valid Indiana driver's license.
• Ability to lift up to 100 pounds occasionally and 50 pounds frequently.
• Prior work-related experience preferred.

Responsibilities

• Perform horticultural maintenance including trimming grass and pulling weeds.
• Work outdoors in various environmental conditions.
• Assist in caring for the Zoo's 93-acre campus and Conservatory.

Skills

Team-oriented

Willingness to learn

Communication

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Bachelor's degree in Life Science

Tools

Hand tools

Small engine power tools

Job description

From trimming grass, to pulling weeds, to providing care for plants, flowers, and trees, our Seasonal Gardeners are always on the move! If your ideal job is working outside in nature, look no further! Gain valuable experience working with our dynamic Horticulture department learning about the care and maintenance of the Zoo's 93-acre campus, the variety of exotic plants in the 5000 square foot Conservatory, and the 3 acres of formal gardens.

Ideal candidates are committed to advancing the Zoo's mission to protect nature and inspire people to care for our world. Having a professional attitude and appearance as well as being temperamentally suited to working around animals and the public is vital to this position. A team-oriented individual with a commitment to getting the job done is perfect for this role. Successful candidates will demonstrate a willingness to learn and perform basic horticultural maintenance practices. Familiarity with hand tools and small engine power tools is highly desired. This seasonal (40 hours per week) position may work from the months of May to November with a pay rate of $13.00/ hr. Normal shift hours are 7:00 am to 3:30 pm, weekend and holiday shifts are required.

Position Requirements and Experience (Note: there are strenuous physical requirements to this position including but not limited to):

• Must be 18 years of age with a valid Indiana's driver's license insurable by the Zoo's insurance.
• Ability to work indoors and outdoors under all environmental conditions and temperatures.
• Ability to transport and move items, exerting at least 100 pounds of force occasionally, and/ or up to 50 pounds of force frequently.
• Ability to ascend/ descend ladders, steps, and uneven terrain, while maintaining body equilibrium while performing various jobs.
• Exceptional visual acuity is required, along with the ability to communicate, comprehend, and decipher information accurately, using a two-way radio.

• Possible occupational exposure (Category B employee) to human bloodborne pathogens.
• Possible exposure to dangerous chemicals (e.g. chlorine bleach, cleaning agents, etc.) Must follow Universal Protection Precautions and Bloodborne Pathogens Guidelines.

• Prior work-related experience preferred. College course work in a suitable field may be substituted for work experience.
• High school diploma or equivalent is required. Bachelor's degree in a Life Science area from an accredited college/university in life sciences is preferred.

To apply:

• Interested candidates must complete an online application.
• Interested applicants must include a resume, cover letter, and salary requirements to be considered.

Employment at the Indianapolis Zoo is contingent upon the successful completion of pre-employment testing including a background check, motor vehicle check (if applicable) and a drug test.