Seasonal Assistant Horticulturist

Job Description

The Seasonal Assistant Horticulturist will maintain the overall visual quality and horticultural standards of assigned areas, meeting Chanticleer’s high expectations. This position is an experiential learning opportunity, providing valuable hands-on experience, networking connections, and educational growth at one of America’s most beautiful gardens.

Position Details:
• Season Duration: Current – December 15th, 2025 (approximate dates)
• Schedule: up to 40 hours per week, typically Mon. – Fri., [7:30am-4:00pm]
• Weekend Rotation: required during peak season
• Wage Rate: $20 per hour
• Benefits: Professional development opportunities, horticultural training programs, networking with industry professionals

About Us

The Chanticleer Foundation is a non-profit organization that operates a 50-acre public garden in Wayne, PA. The garden is open to the public daily Wednesday to Sunday, from late March through early November. Chanticleer provides an opportunity for guests to relax and enjoy the various garden areas and vistas on the property. The Chanticleer staff work in a professional, team-oriented, and smoke-free environment. Continual training and education in the green industry is encouraged.

Duties & Responsibilities

Maintain overall visual quality and horticultural standards of assigned areas

Perform various plant care tasks, including: Propagating plants, Preparing soils, Potting and repotting plants, Arranging plants in various designs, Pruning, cultivating, weeding, and trimming, Applying fertilizers, Assisting with supervised spraying (with appropriate training).

Maintain personal equipment, tools, and machines

Report supply and material needs to supervisor

Conduct tours and respond to visitor inquiries as needed

Education and Experience

• High school diploma or equivalent required
• Ideally, formal and on-the-job training in horticulture and design, or related fields
• Additional certifications or training in arboriculture or horticulture a plus

Additional Information

Required Skills and Abilities:
• Demonstrated knowledge of plant care, landscaping principles, and horticultural practices
• Proficiency in safe operation and basic maintenance of landscaping equipment
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to maintaining high-quality gardens
• Excellent time management skills and ability to prioritize tasks
• Capacity to work independently and collaboratively within a team environment
• Effective communication skills, both verbal and written
• Adaptability to changing weather conditions and seasonal work requirements

Physical Requirements:
• Ability to lift and carry up to 50 lbs. regularly
• Capable of standing, walking, and performing physical labor for up to 8 hours daily
• Comfortable working outdoors in various weather conditions, including heat, cold, and rain
• Ability to frequently bend, stoop, kneel, and reach
• Hand-eye coordination for operating machinery and performing detailed plant care

Work Environment:
• Work is performed primarily outdoors in the gardens and grounds of Chanticleer
• Employees are exposed to seasonal weather conditions, plant materials, pollen, and dust
• Use of personal protective equipment such as gloves, safety glasses, and hearing protection may be required
• Occasional work in greenhouses or indoor facilities as needed
• Weekend work is required from late March to early November

Application Instructions

Please submit your resume, letter of interest, and at least three references via email to: employment@chanticleergarden.org
We are an Equal Opportunity Employer.

We believe that diversity, equality, and inclusion strengthen our institution and the world around us.