Summer Gardener- Part-Time / Seasonal

Hiring Range: $16.74-$22

The Gardener is responsible for maintaining the CSU Extension office Trial and Demonstration Gardens and providing support for the preparation and execution of gardening programs. The CSU Extension Trial and Demonstration Gardens provide an opportunity to view plants that are adapted to the mountain environment and are home to several unique specialty gardens including native plants, waterwise plants, Plant Select, Perennial Border, culinary herb garden, and vegetable beds.

Schedule: Monday- Friday; 8:30 am- 11:30 am. This is a part-time, seasonal position that is needed from May to September. The schedule can be flexible, but is budgeted for about 15 hours per week, 3 hours per day.

Applicants are encouraged to apply by March 31st; however, the posting will be kept open until filled.

Essential Functions:

• Consistently performs a variety of garden maintenance tasks, which include the following: trimming and pruning, planting, watering, fertilizing, digging, raking, mulching and sprinkler maintenance.
• Safely maintains grounds using hand or power tools such as hand pruners, pruning saws, and chipper shredders.
• Regularly assures that the gardens are clean, free of litter, and presentable to the public.
• Manages garden composting operation.
• Speaks to visitors about the gardens and enlists the help of the Horticulture Extension Specialist or Colorado Master Gardeners to answer questions when necessary.
• Helps with the Grow & Give garden produce donation program.
• Assists with raised bed maintenance of the trial and vegetable beds.
• Observes safety and security procedures, uses equipment and materials safely, and reports potentially unsafe conditions.
• Serves the community by demonstrating Eagle County Government mission and core values and following relevant policies and procedures.
• Other duties as assigned

Qualifications

Education, Experience, Licensure, Certification, or Registration:

• Garden maintenance experience preferred
• Experience working in outdoor climate conditions, such as heat, rain, cold, or strong winds, is preferred
• The ability to pass a background check is required
• Valid driver's license and satisfactory driving record - preferred, not required
• Master Gardener certification, "a plus."

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Ability to work autonomously, managing one's own time and have a sense of ownership and pride in one's work
• Ability to take direction
• Ability to work outside in extreme weather conditions
• Ability to perform under the physical exertion required to complete tasks in support of the essential job functions
• Ability to manage tasks within set amount of time while paying strong attention to detail
• Experience with common gardening tools such as hand pruners, pruning saws, and chipper shredders, and other hand-held tools

Basic knowledge of proper gardening practices

• Knowledge of irrigation systems is helpful
• Basic knowledge and skills of gardening at high elevations are helpful
• Strong aptitude in customer service
• Excellent oral and written communication skills
• Experience working with volunteers and youth is preferred

Culture & Benefits

Working in local government is one of the best career paths in the mountains. 'Your Career will Soar with Eagle County'. Get started with us today!

• Why is Eagle County recognized as a Best Place to Work in 2022? Culture of flexibility and support for mental health / wellness. Check out more awards here.
• Purpose! A modern, values-driven workplace with more than 550 employees embracing a welcoming culture, supportive leaders and an organization focused on our mission: Creating a Better Eagle County for All.
• Learning organization focused on professional development opportunities, FREE CMC classes and Tuition reimbursement.
• Future-focused with our Strategic Plan on improving housing, climate change and more.
• As a certified healthy workplace, our culture recognizes the importance of individual needs and enjoying life outside of work. Other perks may include flexible work arrangements, paid volunteer time, and daytime fitness classes/bike rides.

Seasonal benefits include:

• Free classes at Colorado Mountain College
• Eagle County University classes (internal trainings)
• Tuition reimbursement programs
• Bilingual Pay Incentive
• Free bus pass and more

Relocation & Housing Information