ARBORETUM GARDENER

Arbortum Gardener

Salary : $46,693.20 - $62,904.00 Annually Location : Los Angeles County, CA Job Type : Full time Applications must be received before 5 : 00 p.m. (PT) on Tuesday, November 18, 2025 to be accepted.

Working for Los Angeles County Parks & Recreation offers the opportunity to be part of a department that stewards some of the region's most treasured public spaces, including world-class botanical gardens, historic estates, vibrant community gardens, and educational nature centers. These gardens not only showcase diverse plant collections and natural habitats but also serve as living classrooms where visitors of all ages learn about conservation, sustainability, and the unique ecology of Southern California. By joining our team, you will help preserve these spaces, support environmental education, and provide meaningful recreational and cultural experiences that enhance the quality of life for millions of residents and visitors each year.

What does an Arboretum Gardener do?

Positions allocable to this class are responsible for one or more planted sections which are curated to emulate geographical region from around the world and / or other specialized planting of a botanical garden, display garden, or nature center. Positions also supervisor the work of lower-level positions such as Assistant Arboretum Gardener, Grounds Maintenance Workers, as well as Volunteers or citizens employed by the site's associated foundation.

Essential job functions include : planting, irrigating, weeding, fertilizing, pruning, staking, and tying flowers, plants, shrubs, and trees; using hand tools and power equipment; applying knowledge of plant identification and botanical names in connection with gardening work; performing minor irrigation repair and irrigation controller programming; selecting locations and relocating plants; planning, assigning, instructing, and evaluating the work of assistants; completing reports regarding new plantings, plant death / loss, and pesticide-use; planting, cultivating, mowing, edging, weeding, spraying, fertilizing, and renovating lawn areas; performing routine landscaping; maintaining accurate identification labels on all plants; providing information to visitors regarding botanical names and characteristics of plants or proper care of unusual plants; conducting classes or presentations regarding various horticultural subjects; and maintaining good public relations with members of plant societies and others interested in specialized plantings who may donate services, plants, ornamental objects or funds to the facility.

Requirements to qualify : Option I : Two (2) years of gardening

• experience in an arboretum, estate garden, botanical garden, retail nursery or display-oriented public garden. Option II : One (1) year of gardening
• experience in an arboretum, estate garden, botanical garden, retail nursery or display-oriented public garden.AND Completion of nine (9) semester or twelve (12) quarter units
• of botany, horticulture, landscape design or related subjects at accredited college. Driver License : A valid California Class C Driver License or the ability to use an alternative method of transportation when needed to carry out job-related duties.

Desirable qualifications : Additional points will be given to applicants who possess the following : additional years beyond the required gardening