Seasonal Assistant Horticulturist

About the Position

Join Mt. Cuba Center's Horticulture Team as a Seasonal Assistant Horticulturist and contribute to the continued development and refinement of our renowned native plant gardens. In this hands-on role, you'll work alongside experienced horticulturists to maintain and enhance our living collections while gaining valuable experience in ecological horticulture practices.

Essential Functions

• Support the Gardens Team by conducting routine horticultural activities, including site and soil preparation, planting, transplanting, mulching, weeding, watering, fertilizing, and pruning to maintain the health and growth of plant collections. 
• Ensure that plants receive adequate water by managing watering systems and performing manual watering, adjusting methods as needed based on weather conditions and seasonal requirements. 
• Safely operate and maintain various hand tools, power tools, and garden machinery, ensuring equipment is used correctly to perform daily horticultural tasks efficiently. 
• Occasionally provide horticultural information to guests, answering questions and sharing basic plant knowledge to enhance their garden experience. 
• Maintain garden pathways and assigned areas, ensuring they are well-groomed, safe, and free from debris.
• Collaborate with other divisions on horticultural projects and activities

Qualifications and Skills

• Minimum one year of gardening or horticultural experience
• Demonstrated knowledge of gardening practices and techniques
• Passion for native plants, shrubs, and trees, with an interest in ecological horticulture
• Proficiency in safely operating and maintaining various tools, vehicles, and equipment
• Valid driver's license in good standing
• Self-motivated with strong attention to detail and ability to work independently
• Basic computer skills with willingness to learn new technology
• Flexibility to work varying schedules, including occasional evenings, weekends, and special events

Physical Requirements

• Regular physical activity including standing, bending, kneeling, stooping, and crouching
• Ability to lift, carry, push, or pull objects weighing up to 50 pounds
• Comfortable working outdoors in various weather conditions

Schedule and Compensation

• Seasonal position limited to 1,000 hours per year 
• Typical schedule: Monday – Friday, between 7:00 AM - 4:00 PM
• Alternative schedules may be considered based on candidate needs
• Hourly rate: $17.00 per hour

Benefits and Perks

• Paid Sick Time
• Free admission to Mt. Cuba Center gardens
• Access to Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Professional development opportunities
• Work alongside expert horticulturists
• Contribute to native plant conservation and ecological horticulture

Application Process

To apply, please submit:

• Resume
• Responses to our application questions
• Cover letter (optional)

Interview Process & Timeline

We are actively hiring and interviews are taking place on a rolling, immediate basis. We encourage you to apply as soon as possible — qualified candidates will be contacted promptly for an interview. This posting will remain open for approximately two weeks (mid-April)

We are targeting a start date of late April to early May, with the position running through November–December, depending on availability.

Interview Stages

1. Resume & Application Review
2. In-Person Interview (45 minutes) with the Hiring Team

All candidates will receive a status update via email after their applications are reviewed. While we aim to move quickly through our process, our focus is on finding the right fit for both Mt. Cuba Center and our candidates.

Mt. Cuba Center is committed to diversity and inclusivity. We encourage qualified candidates from all cultures and communities to apply. For accommodations or assistance with your application, please email career[a]mtcubacenter.org