Seasonal Gardener

Start Date: March 30 2026
Compensation: $16-19/hour

Reeves-Reed Arboretum, a public arboretum and historic former estate located in Summit, New Jersey, with landscapes designed by Calvert Vaux, Ellen Biddle Shipman, and Carl Pilat, seeks an experienced gardener to work approximately 24 hours per week. Duration of position extends from April through October. Duties include planting, mulching, watering, deadheading, cleanup, and routine maintenance in the beds, and other planted areas.

Interaction with visitors is a component of being a team-member of the Arboretum, and candidates who can effectively answer inquiries and represent the Arboretum in a friendly and engaging manner will be given special consideration. Candidates should have experience with ornamental plants used in Northeast gardens, should be familiar with basic gardening techniques, and will be expected to work outside in all weather conditions.

Apply now to add this prestigious arboretum experience to your resume!

• Watering of new plantings and nursery stock
• Planting seasonal bulbs, annuals, and tropicals
• Planting display beds and native ecosystem restoration
• Planting herbaceous and woody perennials
• Invasive plant removal
• Weeding, edging, and mulching of flower beds
• Trail maintenance and rebuilding
• Propagation and planting of historic tree specimens
• Water feature maintenance
• Ambassador of the arboretum in a public setting
• Other duties as assigned

• Interest in learning more about horticulture and furthering skill development of garden management.
• Functional gardening knowledge.
• Ability to perform heavy, physical labor (lift 50 lbs.) in all weather conditions.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Ability to work with volunteers and interact with the public.
• Valid driver's license.
• Must be 18 or older.

• Knowledge of plant material and horticulture techniques.
  • Horticultural or Environmental education or certification will help demonstrate this basic knowledge, OR
  • Current enrollment in classes related to these fields
• The ability to safely operate hand tools and power equipment, including line trimmers and backpack blowers.

• This is a temporary part-time position.
• 30 March-30 October 2026
• 24 hours per week; some weekend days may be required.