Gardener

 

JOB DESCRIPTION – GARDENER

 

 

JOB TITLE:                                                  Gardener

FLSA STATUS:                                            Non-Exempt Part Time

REPORTS TO:                                             Executive Director

DATE:                                                            July, 2025

 

 

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

This position is responsible for assisting with the maintenance and care of the Arboretum. Gardener will also provide support to the Executive Director with activities and programs, which may include assisting Visitor Experience Team (Welcome Kiosk).

 

POSITION REQUIREMENTS:

This is a dedicated role to assist with all maintenance and care of the Arboretum to include the following:

· Shearing and plant maintenance to achieve aesthetics and design for each sculpture.

· Serve as gardening resource for the Arboretum.

· Work on special projects assigned.

· Assist in managing plant collecting/propagation, plant records, collection mapping, record-labeling, and electronic record keeping.

· Assist installation and maintenance of the raised beds.

· Manage insect and pest control in raised beds. Ensure that JABG is compliant with local, state, and federal regulations.

· Manage gardening tools and supplies, inventory, maintenance, proper usage, and safety.

· Demonstrate a continued interest and advancement in native ornamental horticulture and network with other arboretums and public gardens.

· Provide research and information on native ornamental horticulture to the public, media, staff, and volunteers. Give tours and presentations. Write articles for publications.

· Lead volunteer workdays.

· Attend and work all special events (may include late nights and weekends).

 

REQUIRED FOR POSITION

· Experience in landscaping, horticulture, and/or gardening.

· Experience in utilizing common gardening equipment.

· Knowledge of horticulture, flower production, weed science, plant propagation, irrigation systems, pest control and invasive species management.

 

KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS:

· Ability to problem solve and de-escalate volunteer issues.

· Capacity to lead by pitching in and to quickly resolve problems and formulate solutions that are equitable, efficient and practical.

· Able to make key decisions swiftly and is consistent at following policies and procedures.

· Proven ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing.

· Ability to organize time and manage diverse activities. Meet deadlines.

· Positive and courteous attitude, willingness for professional growth with a small non-profit organization.

· Ability to work for long periods without supervisory oversight. Ability to work with diverse teams/committees and be available for frequent committee meetings which are often scheduled after hours.

· Ability to establish priorities and meet deadlines

· Schedule flexibility to include nights and weekends

· Valid state driver's license and excellent driving record

 

COMPLEXITY/PROBLEM SOLVING:

· Coordinate multiple diverse projects, set realistic deadlines, and manage a timeline.

· Adapt or modify processes in response to changing circumstances.

· Interpret guidelines and analyze information.

· Resolve routine problems independently; consult with supervisor to develop plans for resolution of unusual or complex problems.

 

DISCRETION/LATITUDE/DECISION-MAKING:

· Duties are performed under general supervision and established guidelines.

· Demonstrates common sense, flexibility, and teamwork with the ability to exercise independent judgement. Makes day-to-day decisions within the scope of work assignment.

· Opportunities to act independently on assigned tasks. Refers difficult questions or unusual problems to the supervisor.

· Works well and frequently without oversight.

 

RESPONSIBILITY/OVERSIGHT –FINANCIAL & SUPERVISORY:

· Work within approved budget

 

COMMUNICATIONS/INTERPERSONAL CONTACTS:

· Formulates and clearly communicates ideas to others, providing a variety of information to staff and others to assist workflow throughout the organization.

· Works and communicates with a diverse group of people, including members, donors, volunteers, the public and other staff.

· Consistently demonstrates professional, positive, and approachable attitude/demeanor and discretion. Demonstrates sensitivity in handling confidential information.

 

WORKING CONDITIONS/PHYSICAL EFFORT:

· This job operates out of the Arboretum, must be comfortable working in various climates.

· The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.

· Standing for extended periods of time

· Ability to lift 50 pounds

 

Position Type and Expected Hours of Work

This is a part-time position.

8 a.m. to 1 p.m. during weekdays, depending on JABG needs. Hours may vary from this schedule. Weekends are often required.

 

Other Duties

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

 

 

Signatures
This job description has been approved by all levels of management:

 

Executive Director   ________________________________ Date____________

Employee signature below constitutes employee's understanding of the requirements, essential functions, and duties of the position.

Employee________________________________________ Date_____________

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Jacksonville Arboretum and Botanical Gardens is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE)