SOILS & COMPOST TECHNICIAN 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.

Longwood Gardens is seeking a skilled, full-time Soils & Compost Technician to support daily operations at our Soils and Composting Facility. This role is responsible for producing high‑quality compost, mulch, and soil amendments used throughout the Gardens, while applying knowledge of soils, soil chemistry, and plant nutrition to guide testing, formulation, and long‑term soil‑health strategies. The Technician operates and maintains a range of heavy equipment, supports applied research and recipe trials, and collaborates across departments to advance sustainable soil management. This position requires outdoor work in all weather, strong equipment‑operation skills, and a commitment to safety, organization, and excellence. Responsibilities include:

• Producing compost, mulch, and soil blends; managing incoming organic materials.
• Operating and maintaining tractors, loaders, skid steers, trucks, and related equipment.
• Conducting soil and compost sampling, testing, and data tracking.
• Supporting research trials, recipe development, and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Assisting with material transport, site maintenance, snow removal, and cross‑divisional projects.
• Providing excellent service to internal partners and uphold Longwood’s standards and values.
• Maintaining clean and organized workspaces, including storage warehouses.
• Additional responsibilities and duties, as needed, including tree plantings, trail maintenance, and controlled burns.

The ideal candidate will possess:

• A high school diploma or equivalency and 2+ years of experience in farming, landscaping, or equipment operation.
• A Bachelor’s degree in soil science, agriculture, natural resources, or related field; A minimum of 4 years of equipment operation experience.
• The ability to safely operate large equipment; strong organizational and communication skills; basic computer proficiency.
• The ability to lift 75 lbs., work outdoors year‑round in various conditions, operate equipment for extended periods, and wear required PPE.
• The ability to work occasional nights, weekends, and holidays, as needed.
• A valid driver’s license (required to operate any Longwood vehicle)
• A CDL Class A or the ability to obtain within the first 6 months of employment
• A DOT Medical Card
• Forklift and Aerial Lift certifications or the ability to obtain within the first 6 months of employment
• A PA Pesticide Applicator Certification – CORE and Category 10 or the ability to obtain within the first 6 months of employment

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.