SEASONAL HORTICULTURIST ASSISTANT, AQUATIC DISPLAY at Longwood Gardens – Kennett Square, Pennsylvania

As one of the great gardens of the world located just 30 miles outside of Philadelphia, Longwood Gardens is rooted in a steadfast mission of bringing joy and inspiration to everyone through the beauty of nature, conservation, and learning. Across our many departments, each and every staff member creates the magic that makes our Gardens distinctive. Our team of dynamic professionals is what sets us apart, and our spirit of legacy, innovation, and opportunity is what guides us. While beauty is our heart, our people are our soul.

Aquatic plants and the use of water in the landscape have been a longstanding tradition at Longwood Gardens. Since 1957 with the opening of the Waterlily Court, aquatic plants have greeted guests and become an iconic part of our summer displays.

Longwood Gardens is seeking a seasonal Horticulturist Assistant to help install and maintain the world-renowned aquatic plant displays in the iconic Waterlily Court and the new West Conservatory. This person will be working in the display areas as well as the back-of-house growing spaces. Responsibilities include:

• Grooming and deadheading waterlilies, lotus, cannas and other aquatic plants.
• Repotting and planting waterlilies.
• Maintaining the high quality of the displays by removing algae and debris, skimming leaves and sweeping walkways.
• Assisting with the upkeep and cleanliness of work areas and displays.
• Grooming and deadheading the plants on display throughout the gardens. 
• Working with and around trucks, lift gates, forklifts, aerial lifts, and utility vehicles.

This position will run for six months and require 40 hours per week with a start time of 6:30 AM. It will be Monday through Friday.

The ideal candidate will possess:

• Experience with growing aquatic plants (preferred)
• A high degree of motivation, organization, attention to detail,
• A minimum 2-year degree in horticulture or related field or at least 2 years of horticulture experience
• A baseline knowledge of plant culture and horticultural related tasks (such as, but not limited to deadheading, weeding, digging, potting).
• A current PA Pesticide Applicator’s license (preferred but not required)
• A valid driver’s license (required)
• The ability to work independently and with a team
• The ability to bend, stoop, and stand for long periods of time and work in varying weather conditions
• The ability to work in waders in water
• The ability to lift 50 pounds
• The ability to perform manual, repetitive tasks independently
• The ability to operate small, handheld equipment

Longwood Gardens is committed to nurturing a diverse and inclusive environment that celebrates the complexities and differences of all living things. We welcome and respect diverse backgrounds, life experiences, and perspectives. Diversity creates a more beautiful world, sparks innovation, and unites us.