Part-Time Gardener

Job Description

Van Vleck House & Gardens, a public garden in Montclair, New Jersey, is seeking a Part-Time Gardener to join our dedicated team. This hands-on, outdoor role involves the care and maintenance of our vibrant and historic landscape. Work takes place in all weather conditions and requires a passion for horticulture, attention to detail, and a commitment to sustainability.

Position Details
Schedule:
• Must be available to start Mid-February: 25 hours/week year-round
• Three full days per week starting at 7:30am (Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, or Friday). Occasional flexibility subject to prior approval.
• A few specific additional days are required each year for major fundraisers regardless of your usual schedule. In 2026, these will include the following: April 24, 27, 28, 29, May 2, 3, June 5, 8, and November 19, 20, 23.
Compensation: $18.00-$22/hour depending on experience

About Us

Serving as the liaison between Montclair charitable causes and the dollars that support those causes, the Foundation ensures that the gifts of caring, supportive donors are prudently managed and effectively used to better the community.

Under the guidance of The VVH&G Management Committee, the generous support and hard work of countless donors and volunteers have made it possible for the public to enjoy this beautiful, quiet green space in the heart of Montclair.

These private gardens are open to the public, 365 days a year. The house is a center for nonprofit groups and is available to them for meetings, retreats, and fundraisers. Visitors are welcome to enjoy all the garden spaces and are encouraged to join us for classes, concerts, and special events.

Duties & Responsibilities

What You’ll Do
This is a physically demanding position that offers a deep immersion in both the science and art of horticulture. You will:
• Report to the Director of Horticulture for your work assignments performing tasks as assigned using the best sustainable horticultural practices to maintain and beautify the landscape
• Inspect young trees and prune to address structural issues and rejuvenate shrubs.
• Support winter clean-up and snow removal efforts
• Perform routine garden maintenance such as weeding, pruning, mulching, watering, raking, and composting
• Assist in the installation of new plantings or expansion of planted areas.
• Lawn renovation using core aerator
• Identify and report safety or plant health concerns to the Director of Horticulture.
• Supervise garden volunteers and interns
• Support Montclair Foundation events and fundraisers as needed, with a few mandatory days on the annual calendar

Education and Experience

What You’ll Bring
• Reliability and punctuality with the ability to maintain a consistent schedule
• Strong communication and listening skills with ability to follow verbal instructions
• Hands-on gardening experience, including plant identification and proper pruning techniques
• A high standard for workplace safety
• A keen eye for detail and aesthetics and the ability to visualize the outcome of your task
• Ability to take direction and openness to feedback with a growth mindset
• Safe operation of garden tools and equipment
• Professionalism and integrity in all interactions, including with the public

Qualifications and Physical Requirements
• Work outdoors in all types of weather, exposed to a wide assortment of plant materials, pollen, and dust
• Capacity to perform repetitive movements such as digging, shoveling, and pruning
• Push, pull, and lift 50 pounds consistently
• Ability to push up to 200 pounds in a wheelbarrow (for example, 4 bags of ice-melt salt or grass seed)
• Comfort with kneeling, squatting, bending, reaching, and standing for long periods
• Valid driver’s license
• Must be 18 years or older

Application Instructions

To Apply:
Please email your resume and cover letter to laura@montclairfoundation.org