The Ambler Arboretum of Temple University is hiring Student Gardeners.

Students may work up to 28 hours per week (20 if work study)

Rate: $12.50 per hour for the first growing season, then an increase to $15 an hour will be considered.

Student Workers typically assist with the following tasks, under the supervision of the Formal Gardens Horticulturist, Curatorial Horticulturist or Arboretum Director:

  • Mulching, edging, and hand-weeding of garden beds
  • Planting, pruning, and watering of trees, shrubs, annuals and perennials
  • String-trimming / weed-whacking around paths, beds, buildings etc.
  • Removal of leaves and other debris using blowers, rakes, and tarps
  • Watering new plantings and display pots with a hose
  • Sowing seed and transplanting of seedlings for the Arboretum in the Greenhouse potting area
  • Working with volunteer groups on garden projects
  • Assisting with scheduled Arboretum events on campus

Qualifications

  • Current Temple student
  • Basic knowledge of common garden plants, equipment, and techniques
  • Ability to interact comfortably with all members of the campus community, including visitors
  • Physically able to lift 25 pounds, bend, reach, and stand for long periods in variable weather conditions
  • Ability to operate the Kronos time management system; and Microsoft TEAMS communication software.

 Driver’s License

According to Temple University policy, employees including Student Workers who operate off-road utility vehicles are required to have a valid driver’s license. As a result, Arboretum student workers must maintain a valid driver’s license at all times during their period of employment. We will consider applicates without driver’s licenses but they will not be permitted to operate the Arboretum’s vehicles.

 Scheduling

During the School Year students may work up to 28 hours (20 if work study) weekly. Scheduling will be determined by the student's schedule and staff preferences, opportunities are available Mon - Sat 9:00 - 4:00.

During the Summer, Student Workers are scheduled between the hours of 8:30 AM and 5:00 PM, Monday through Saturday, based on student availability. Occasional weekend and evening hours may be available to assist with scheduled Arboretum events.

 Please email a resume and a brief description of your interest and experience to arboretum@temple.edu

Public Horticulture Internship

Ambler Arboretum Public Horticulture Internship

Limited to Temple University Students Only

32.5 hours a week for ten (10) weeks.
Hourly Rate: $12.50 Work Schedule: M-F 9-4, on campus Start: Mid-May; End: Mid-July

In southeastern Pennsylvania, where there are more than 30 public gardens within 30 miles of Philadelphia, working in a public horticulture setting upon graduation is a distinct possibility for many horticulture and landscape architecture students. According to a recent study, these gardens support more than 1500 jobs in the area and account for an economic impact of more than $250 million annually. Public horticulture in the region attracts an estimated 2.5 million people to gardens each year.
The Public Horticulture Intern will work under the guidance of the Arboretum Director, Curatorial Horticulturist and Formal Gardens Horticulturist to accomplish various tasks and projects in the Ambler Arboretum of Temple University.

This Ambler Arboretum internship will present the intern with many opportunities to broaden their experience within the horticulture field and to learn about different careers and opportunities in Public Horticulture.
The intern will have an opportunity to shadow staff and assist in daily tasks. The intern’s experience will be customized to the needs of the Arboretum and the interests of the intern but may include the following:

  • Ornamental gardening, including planting, mulching, weeding, staking, dead-heading, pruning, watering, pest identification and integrated pest management, plant identification, and developing knowledge of plant, design, and material needs
  • General maintenance of gardens, and equipment, including raking, sweeping, cleaning, sharpening, and repairs as needed
  • Propagation/Production, may include collection, storage, and sowing of seed, cuttings, dividing, transplanting, watering, additional plant care, and greenhouse crop management
  • Assisting Curatorial Horticulturist in plant curation, may include labeling, record-keeping, mapping, plant photography, and phenology
  • Assisting with and development of educational programming
  • Assisting with and development of enhanced visitor experience materials and activities
  • Attending field trips, conferences, networking events relating to public horticulture
  • Other departmental and/or organizational duties as needed (e.g., educational programs, special events, etc.)

The intern will be expected to develop and implement at least one public program relating to their area of interest and selected project during the internship.
Upon completion, the Intern will have developed:

  • Skills in horticulture planning, design, installation, renovation and maintenance
  • Understanding and practical application of sustainable horticulture techniques and design
  • Working understanding of the value and importance of native plants
  • Working knowledge of the curatorial process and needs of a public garden
  • Practical experience implementing educational programs including guided and self-guided tours
  •  Practical experience in propagation

Qualifications:

  • Temple University student with interest and experience in horticulture and/or landscape architecture and design
  • Entering junior or senior year or may have just completed your degree.

To Apply:

Non-Student Positions

Nursery Manager:  Nursery Manager reports to the Director of the Ambler Arboretum of Temple University and is responsible for management and oversight of the production and quasi-retail nursery on the Temple Ambler Campus See full job listing