Historic Landscape Lead, Gardens & Grounds

Harvard University, Faculty of Arts & Sciences; Washington (District of Columbia); On-site; USD 70,000 - 95,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement plans

Tuition assistance

Job summary

Harvard University, Faculty of Arts & Sciences is seeking a Garden and Grounds Foreperson to lead horticulture operations across campus gardens. The role emphasizes Integrated Pest Management, irrigation oversight, and coordination with the Garden Director on emergency response and contracted trades.

Ideal candidates hold a bachelor’s degree in horticulture or a related field and have 5+ years’ experience in public or historic garden maintenance, IPM compliance, and vehicle/equipment management.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree, preferably in horticulture or related field.
• Five+ years of experience maintaining mechanical systems and equipment.
• Five+ years of experience in horticulture, preferably in public and/or historic gardens.

Responsibilities

• Oversee IPM activities, monitor plant health and irrigation, and qualify as a DC Licensed Pesticide Applicator within one year.
• Coordinate campus emergency and weather response; may require weekend work.
• Purchase and maintain equipment; select tools and staff supplies including PPE.
• Oversee tree/woody plant pruning to ISA standards; supervise IPM and pesticide use records.
• Coordinate preventive maintenance on vehicles; ensure DC inspections, licensing, and permits.
• Train and supervise volunteers; oversee contracted masonry, carpentry, plumbing, and electrical work.
• Ensure proper irrigation system functioning across garden areas; oversee repairs and seasonal start-up.

Skills

Bachelor's degree in horticulture or a

Job description

Harvard University, Faculty of Arts & Sciences is seeking a Garden and Grounds Foreperson to lead horticulture operations across campus gardens. The role emphasizes Integrated Pest Management, irrigation oversight, and coordination with the Garden Director on emergency response and contracted trades.

Ideal candidates hold a bachelor’s degree in horticulture or a related field and have 5+ years’ experience in public or historic garden maintenance, IPM compliance, and vehicle/equipment management.