Part-Time Operations Assistant, Morris Arboretum & Gardens

University of Pennsylvania; Philadelphia (Philadelphia County); On-site; USD 23,000 - 25,000; Part time

Job summary

The University of Pennsylvania's Morris Arboretum & Gardens seeks a Part-Time Operations Assistant to support daily grounds operations, custodial tasks, water feature maintenance, visitor services, and event support.

This essential role requires physical activity, the ability to work outdoors in all weather, and shifts that include evenings and weekends. A high school diploma or GED and a valid driver’s license are preferred qualifications.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Minimum of 1 year of experience in custodial, housekeeping, facilities, or security-related work preferred.
• Valid driver's license required.
• Ability to perform physically demanding work, including lifting 30-50 lbs. on occasion.
• Availability to work weekday, evening, and weekend shifts as required by operational needs.
• Strong work ethic, reliability, and attention to safety.

Responsibilities

• Perform custodial work across Arboretum buildings and outdoor areas.
• Clean and maintain water features throughout the garden.
• Provide courteous and professional customer service to visitors, members, and staff.
• Support the security and safety of University assets on Arboretum grounds.
• Assist with set-up, breakdown, and operational support for Arboretum events.
• Monitor public spaces to ensure cleanliness, safety, and readiness for visitors.
• Perform additional duties as assigned to support Arboretum operations.

Skills

Independent work

Customer service

Physical stamina

Reliability

Education

High school diploma or GED

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.

Posted Job Title

Part-Time Operations Assistant, Morris Arboretum & Gardens

Job Profile Title

Services Assistant A

Job Description Summary

The Operations Assistant is a part-time, essential staff position that supports the daily operations of Morris Arboretum & Gardens. This role is responsible for custodial services, event support, maintenance of water features, visitor assistance, and helping ensure the security and safety of University assets across the grounds.

The Operations Assistant works both independently and as part of a team, contributing to a clean, safe, and welcoming environment for visitors, members, staff, and event guests. This position requires physical activity, flexibility in scheduling, and the ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions, including evenings and weekends.

Job Description

Responsibilities

• Perform custodial work across Arboretum buildings and outdoor areas.
• Clean and maintain water features throughout the garden.
• Provide courteous and professional customer service to visitors, members, and staff.
• Support the security and safety of University assets on Arboretum grounds.
• Assist with set-up, breakdown, and operational support for Arboretum events.
• Monitor public spaces to ensure cleanliness, safety, and readiness for visitors.
• Perform additional duties as assigned to support Arboretum operations.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Minimum of 1 year of experience in custodial, housekeeping, facilities, or security-related work preferred.
• Valid driver's license required.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision; must be a responsible, self-starting individual.
• Ability to perform physically demanding work, including lifting 30-50 lbs. on occasion.
• Ability to work outdoors in all areas of the garden and in all weather conditions.
• Availability to work weekday, evening, and weekend shifts as required by operational needs.
• Strong work ethic, reliability, and attention to safety.

Job Location - City, State

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

About the Division of Business Services

The Business Services Division (BSD) supports the individual and collective needs of the Penn community by promoting a hospitable, customer-friendly campus environment and providing mission-critical services and essential operations. BSD is dedicated to delivering high-quality service in a fiscally responsible manner. Currently, the Division focuses on three major initiatives:

1. Revenue growth and retention through improved marketing efforts, extended services, and new distribution channels
2. Driving productivity through the effective use of technology
3. Enhancing service offerings through facility upgrades and expansions

For more information about the Division of Business Services, visit: https://www.business-services.upenn.edu

About Morris Arboretum & Gardens

Morris Arboretum & Gardens of the University of Pennsylvania inspires an understanding of the relationship between plants and people through education, research, and horticultural displays. Located in the Northwest section of Philadelphia, Morris Arboretum is a destination for plant enthusiasts and is home to a collection of more than 13,000 woody plants. The Arboretum also hosts special and educational events and serves as a vital part of Penn and a hub for botany, horticulture, and urban forestry.

For more information about Morris Arboretum & Gardens, visit: https://www.morrisarboretum.org

Department / School

Morris Arboretum

Pay Range

$17.12 - $18.60 Hourly Rate Salary offers are made based on the candidate's qualifications, experience, skills, and education as they directly relate to the requirements of the position, and in alignment with salary ranges based on external market data for the job's level. Internal organization and peer data at Penn are also considered.

Equal Opportunity Statement

The University of Pennsylvania is an equal opportunity employer. Candidates are c