Additional Qualifications and Skills - Horticultural training and/or grounds management background, particularly in historic gardens
- Pesticide Applicators License through DC Department of Environment, or ability to obtain license
Position Description- Performs general plant care, garden maintenance, and essential garden duties, relying on knowledge of horticulture and plant care techniques: planting, pruning, mowing, blowing, edging, weeding, watering, invasive plant removal, lawn maintenance, ornament cleaning, and fountain/pool maintenance.
- Responds to inclement weather and/or emergency conditions as an essential employee. Removes snow, ice, storm debris, and addresses garden hazards.
- Operates machinery and equipment used in the performance of gardening duties, including mowers, tractors, and gas/electric powered hand-held equipment. Assures proper use of Personal Protective Equipment when operating equipment.
- Prepares the gardens for daily public visiting hours, including removal of snow and ice, leaves, and other debris from walkways and steps.
- May perform daily swimming pool maintenance including poolside cleaning, filter maintenance, water chemistry balance, and other duties associated with pool operation, under the supervision of the Certified Pool Operator (CPO).
- May answer questions for garden visitors.
- Assists with other areas of the gardens and special projects as needed, attends staff meetings.
- Performs other duties as required.
EEO StatementWe are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, gender identity, sexual orientation, pregnancy and pregnancy-related conditions, or any other characteristic protected by law.
Physical Requirements - Ability to work outside in various weather conditions, often on uneven terrain
- Endurance to walk, stand, kneel, bend, stoop, and climb for extended periods
- Strength to push, pull, and lift up to 50 pounds
Job SummaryThis position fills a critical role within a dedicated team of garden professionals working together to fulfil the mission of stewardship and preservation of Beatrix Farrand's masterpiece, a century after its creation. This position reports to the director of gardens and grounds and is under the guidance and general direction of the crew leader for a given section of gardens and grounds.
This position participates actively in the daily care and maintenance and enhancement of the gardens and grounds; works independently or as part of a team, under the direction of a crew leader.
This is an essential position, which may require the employee to work during emergencies and/or outside of normal work hours.
Commitment to Equity, Inclusion, and BelongingHarvard University views equity, diversity, inclusion, and belonging as the pathway to achieving inclusive excellence and fostering a campus culture where everyone can thrive. We strive to create a community that draws upon the widest possible pool of talent to unify excellence and diversity while fully embracing individuals from varied backgrounds, cultures, races, identities, life experiences, perspectives, beliefs, and values.
BenefitsWe invite you to visit Harvard's Total Rewards website (https://hr.harvard.edu/totalrewards) to learn more about our outstanding benefits package, which may include:
- Paid Time Off: 3-4 weeks of accrued vacation time per year (3 weeks for support staff and 4 weeks for administrative/professional staff), 12 accrued sick days per year, 12.5 holidays plus a Winter Recess in December/January, 3 personal days per year (prorated based on date of hire), and up to 12 weeks of paid leave for new parents who are primary care givers.
- Health and Welfare: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision benefits, disability and life insurance programs, along with voluntary benefits. Most coverage begins as of your start date.
- Work/Life and Wellness: Child and elder/adult care resources including on campus childcare centers, Employee Assistance Program, and wellness programs related to stress management, nutrition, meditation, and more.
- Retirement: University-funded retirement plan with contributions from 5% to 15% of eligible compensation, based on age and earnings with full vesting after 3 years of service.
- Tuition Assistance Program: Competitive program including $40 per class at the Harvard Extension School and reduced tuition through other participating Harvard graduate schools.
- Tuition Reimbursement: Program that provides 75% to 90% reimbursement up to $5,250 per calendar year for eligible courses taken at other accredited institutions.
- Professional Development: Programs and classes at little or no cost, including through the Harvard Center for Workplace Development and LinkedIn Learning.
- Commuting and Transportation: Various commuter options handled through the Parking Office, including discounted parking, half-priced public transportation passes and pre-tax transit passes, biking benefits, and more.
- Harvard Facilities Access, Discounts and Perks: Access to Harvard athletic and fitness facilities, libraries, campus events, credit union, and more, as well as discounts to various types of services (legal, financial, etc.) and cultural and leisure activities throughout metro-Boston.
Work Format DetailsThis position is based primarily on-campus, in Washington DC. This may include in-person during emergency situations (if applicable). Additional details will be discussed during the interview process. Certain visa types may limit work location. Individuals must meet work location sponsorship requirements prior to employment.
