Horticulturist I Seasonal - 9177 Boerner Botanical Gardens

Milwaukee County oversees operations from our Airport, Behavioral Health, Child Support Enforcement, Combined Court Operations, Sheriffs Department, Community Reintegration Center, Human Services, Parks, Public Safety, Public Works, Fleet Operations, Transportation, and at the Zoo. Our departments are also dedicated to our Seniors in the Department on Aging, those with Disabilities, and Veterans Affairs. Our employees also remain committed to serve the cultural, human, recreational and social needs of the entire community.

Milwaukee County offers a wide variety of interesting jobs for people who want to make a difference in our community. Milwaukee County provides a competitive benefit package and is an Equal Opportunity Employer. If disability related accommodations are needed, please contact 414-278-3936.

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Horticulturist - Seasonal (Full Time)

Department: Parks

Hourly Range: $19.44 - $23.81/hr

Parks Equity Statement: Milwaukee County Parks is committed to attracting and retaining a diverse work force that is demographically and racially representative of Milwaukee County residents. Milwaukee County Parks leadership is committed to honoring diverse experiences, perspectives, and unique identities, while fostering work environments that are inclusive, equitable, and welcoming.

Job Summary

The Seasonal Horticulturalist helps maintain and enhance the gardens during the peak growing season by planting, pruning, weeding, watering, and general landscape care. This role supports the horticulture team in keeping the gardens vibrant and well-maintained when plant care demands are highest. It exists because full-time staff alone cannot manage the increased workload, and seasonal support is essential to preserving the beauty and functionality of the gardens for visitors.

The Seasonal Horticulturalist is responsible for the care and maintenance of gardens, landscapes, and plant collections at Boerner Botanical Gardens. This role includes planting, watering, pruning, weeding, and general landscape upkeep to ensure the beauty and health of the gardens. Seasonal horticulturalists work both independently and as part of a team to support the garden's mission of education, conservation, and public enjoyment.

Job Responsibilities

• Garden & landscape maintenance - Maintain garden beds, plant displays, and landscaped areas by planting, weeding, pruning, deadheading, and mulching to ensure a visually appealing and healthy environment.

• Plant health monitoring & care - Monitor plant health, identify pests and diseases, and apply appropriate treatments to maintain vitality of the garden's plant collections.

• Seasonal planting & greenhouse support - Participate in seasonal plantings of flowers, shrubs, and trees and assist with greenhouse duties, including plant care and propagation.

• Plant records & updating - Maintain accurate records of plant species, growth patterns, and changes in the gardens. Ensure that plant information is regularly updated for future care and planning.

• Public engagement & visitor interaction - Answer visitor questions and offer educational insights about plants and gardening practices to enhance their experience.

• Seasonal cleanup & weather response - Assist with spring and fall garden preparation, including plant division, and occasional snow/ice removal as needed.

• Equipment operation & grounds upkeep - Operate tools and equipment for maintaining the grounds, clearing pathways, and assisting with irrigation systems to ensure smooth garden operations.

Minimum Qualifications Required -

• Current residency within the State of Wisconsin upon application required
• Valid Wisconsin Driver's License required
• Ability to lift/carry - 30 lbs and push/pull - 20 lbs.
• HS Diploma/GED and above.
• At least One (1) year of experience in Horticulture, landscaping, or a related field.

Additional job requirements to perform/consider -

• Physical demands and working conditions: lifting 25-30 lbs, bending, kneeling, working in all weather, and sharp tools
• Staff move between the Gardens, Domes and Greenhouse when needed and requires additional driving at times.
• Must be very flexible as there can be changes to job duties throughout the day.
• Seasonal work expectations with a heavy workload in spring/summer, potential weekend/holiday work
• Unique challenges and responsibilities: caring for specialized plant collections, managing plant records/signage, engaging with visitors

Unique challenges and responsibilities: caring for specialized plant collections, managing plant records/signage, engaging with visitors.

Note - This Full-Time seasonal position is limited to maximum of 1200 hours per year.

Note: This Original Examination is open to all qualified applicants authorized to work in the United States. In accordance with Rule III section 11 of the Civil Service Rules a non-competitive examination will be held for this position. The non-competitive examination will consist of a review of candidate materials, education, and related experience.

APPLICANTS MUST POSSESS MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS AT TIME OF FILING APPLICATION

Milwaukee County is committed to fostering an equitable working environment, free from discrimination and harassment, on the basis of any characteristic protected by law. We prohibit any form of discrimination, harassment based on race, color, religion, sex, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, pregnancy, pregnancy related condition, national origin, age, disability, FMLA status, sexual orientation, military status, marital status, or any other category or status that is now or in the future protected by federal, state, and local law. We maintain a drug-free workplace and perform pre-employment substance abuse testing, background checks and pre-employment physicals subject to job requirements. If special accommodations are needed, please contact 414-278-3936.

• Milwaukee, WI, USA