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Why join Harvard University Central Administration?
Harvard University's Central Administration (CADM) is a 5,000+ employee organization that supports the university's overall excellence by understanding and serving the needs of its schools, students, faculty, staff, alumni, and surrounding communities. Through dynamic and collaborative partnerships, CADM provides high-quality and efficient services to the schools to help them achieve their goals.
The Arnold Arboretum is a 281-acre museum of trees teaching the world about plants. With one of the world's most biodiverse collections of temperate woody plants, combined with world-class scientific resources, and a commitment to diverse programming, the Arnold Arboretum has been a leader in horticulture since its founding in 1872. As part of the Boston Parks system, it is free and open to all daily; we host three to four million visitors each year.
Job Description
The Arnold Arboretum of Harvard University seeks a dynamic and diverse group of individuals to fill seasonal positions. This Seasonal Gardener job is a six-month term appointment starting in the early spring of 2026. We have five openings for staff who will work Monday through Friday.
The successful candidates will join the Arboretum’s Horticulture and Landscape Department in the stewardship of one of the finest and most significant woody plant collections in North America. The Seasonal Gardeners work alongside the Arboretum’s team of horticulture and landscape staff responsible for the holistic care of the 281-acre landscape. Seasonal Gardeners assist with such tasks including mowing, lawn maintenance, string trimming, IPM (integrated pest management) practices, transplanting, pruning, weed management, mulching and composting, leaf clean-up, watering, invasive species management, and various types of landscape maintenance and collection renovation projects.
Job-Specific Responsibilities:
The people in this role will assist Horticulture & Landscape staff members with various tasks, including:
- Weeding, mulching, and brush chipping
- Pruning
- Transplanting
- Watering
- IPM (Integrated Pest Management) practices
- Mowing, string trimming, and leaf clean-up
- Litter management
- Operation and maintenance of various equipment
- Landscape maintenance and collection renovation projects as needed
- Other related job duties as assigned
Please note: This benefits-eligible position will end six months from the date of hire. Benefits start on the date of hire. Hourly wage: $24.94. Schedule: 40 hours (7:00 AM to 3:30 PM Tuesday through Saturday) per week with a one-half-hour unpaid meal break per day.
Also note: As part of the pre-hire process, a D.O.T. Medical Examiner’s Certificate, Drug Screening, and an RMV check for a valid driver’s license are required at Harvard’s expense.
Working Conditions: This position is based solely on campus, in Jamaica Plain, Massachusetts. This may include in-person during emergency situations. Additional details will be discussed during the interview process.
Qualifications
Candidates MUST meet the following basic qualifications to be considered for this role:
- A minimum of one (1) year experience in horticulture or a related field
- Must have and maintain a valid driver’s license
- Must be able to perform manual labor, including frequent lifting/carrying/transporting heavy loads up to 50 pounds
- Must be able to stand for eight hours a day
- Required to work in all weather conditions in all seasons
- Must serve as essential staff for weather-related emergencies impacting the grounds
Additional Information
- Standard Hours/Schedule: 40 hours per week
- Visa Sponsorship Information: Harvard University is unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position
- Pre-Employment Screening: Harvard University requires pre-employment reference and background screenings: Identity, Driver’s License, DOT Physical, and Drug Screening.
- Other Information:
- This position has a 3-month orientation and review period.
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Work Format Details
This position has been determined by school or unit leaders that all duties and responsibilities must be performed at a Harvard or Harvard-designated location. Certain visa types may limit work location. Individuals must meet work location sponsorship requirements prior to employment.
Salary Grade and Ranges
This position is salary grade level 000. Corresponding salary information can be found in the job description above.
Benefits
Harvard offers a comprehensive benefits package that is designed to support a healthy work-life balance and your physical, mental and financial wellbeing. Because here, you are what matters. Our benefits include, but are not limited to:
- Generous paid time off including parental leave
- Medical, dental, and vision health insurance coverage starting on day one
- Retirement plans with university contributions
- Wellbeing and mental health resources
- Support for families and caregivers
- Professional development opportunities including tuition assistance and reimbursement
- Commuter benefits, discounts and campus perks
Learn more about these and additional benefits on our Benefits & Wellbeing Page.
EEO/Non-Discrimination Commitment Statement
Harvard University is committed to equal opportunity and non-discrimination. We seek talent from all parts of society and the world, and we strive to ensure everyone at Harvard thrives. Our differences help our community advance Harvard's academic purposes.
Harvard has an equal employment opportunity policy that outlines our commitment to prohibiting discrimination on the basis of race, ethnicity, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, religion, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law or identified in the university's non-discrimination policy. Harvard's equal employment opportunity policy and non-discrimination policy help all community members participate fully in work and campus life free from harassment and discrimination.