Seasonal Gardener

Indianapolis Zoo; Indianapolis (IN); On-site; USD 14,774 - 21,042; Full time

Job summary

The Indianapolis Zoo is seeking Seasonal Gardeners to maintain its beautiful 93-acre campus. Ideal candidates will be team-oriented, capable of outdoor work, and committed to the zoo's environmental mission. Responsibilities include caring for plants and performing horticultural tasks. Candidates must be at least 18 years old, have a valid Indiana driver’s license, and be able to lift heavy items. This seasonal position offers a pay rate of $13.00 per hour and requires weekend availability.

Qualifications

• Must be 18 years of age with a valid Indiana driver’s license.
• Exceptional visual acuity and ability to communicate using a two-way radio.
• Ability to work under all environmental conditions.

Responsibilities

• Perform basic horticultural maintenance practices.
• Provide care for plants, flowers, and trees on Zoo campus.

Skills

Ability to work outdoors

Familiarity with hand tools

Ability to lift heavy items

Communication skills

Team-oriented attitude

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Bachelor's degree in Life Science (preferred)

Job description

From trimming grass, to pulling weeds, to providing care for plants, flowers, and trees, the 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.

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 is a seasonal, 40‑hour per week position that requires availability to work weekends, holidays and overtime as needed. Seasonal assignments are temporary in nature and are expected to last approximately six (6) months with a pay rate of $13.00 per hour.

Position Requirements and Experience

• Must be 18 years of age with a valid Indiana 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 coursework 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.

How 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.