Facility Operations - Gardens & Arboretum Outdoor Assistant

Job Title: Gardens & Arboretum Outdoor Assistant

Department: Facility Operations

Supervisor: Gardens Staff, primary contact is Faith Stutts

Starting Rate of Pay: $9.00

Length of Time: Eligible for rehire on a semester basis.

Department Description

The Mariana H. Qubein Arboretum & Gardens is a collection of gardens and green spaces situated within the High Point University campus.  The gardens serve the campus community and are also free and open to the public.

Job Description

The Garden & Arboretum Assistant will be tasked with assisting the Gardens staff with upkeep and care of campus gardens. Tasks include but are not limited to mulching, weeding, planting, and other general garden maintenance. While most work is performed alongside staff, some independent work on assigned tasks is expected.

Job Location/ Hours Required

• Primary work takes place in gardens across the university’s campus, with possible occasional shifts at an off-campus greenhouse. Transportation to the greenhouse can be provided as needed.
• Shifts may be canceled due to severe weather (heavy rain, thunderstorms, or snow), but not due to normal hot or cold temperatures unless conditions exceed a safe range. Attempts will be made to provide indoor work in these instances.
• Employees may work up to 20 hours per week, with a minimum commitment of 4 hours per week. Scheduling is flexible.
• Missed hours due to cancellations can be made up within the pay period.

Responsibilities:

• Communicate with Horticulturists regarding shift assignments.
• Assist with garden maintenance, including weeding, pruning, mulching, and planting.
• Support greenhouse operations as needed, including watering, seed starting, weeding, and equipment cleaning.
• Work collaboratively with other students, volunteers, and staff in a professional and respectful manner.

Required Qualifications:

• Comfortable working outdoors in various weather conditions.
• Ability to walk on uneven terrain and perform physical tasks including kneeling, bending, lifting up to 25 pounds regularly and up to 40 pounds occasionally.
• Reliable and punctual.
• Minimum 3.0 overall GPA.
• Willingness to learn plant identification and basic horticultural practices.

Desired Skills:

• Attention to detail.
• Ability to work independently when needed.
• Interest in horticulture, botany, environmental science, or related fields.
• Willingness to use or learn basic power equipment (leaf blower, hedge trimmer, reciprocating saw, soil tiller).