Part-Time Gardener(Paid Opportunities) Return to Paid Opportunities

Start Date:2/16/2026Compensation:$18-$22/hour

Van Vleck House & Gardens, a public garden in Montclair, New Jersey, is seeking aPart-Time Gardenerto join our dedicated team. This hands-on, outdoor role involves the care and maintenance of our vibrant and historic landscape. Work takes place in all weather conditions and requires a passion for horticulture, attention to detail, and a commitment to sustainability.

Schedule:

  • Must be available to start Mid-February: 25 hours/week year-round
  • Three full days per week starting at 7:30am (Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, or Friday). Occasional flexibility subject to prior approval.
  • A few specific additional days are required each year for major fundraisers regardless of your usual schedule. In 2026, these will include the following: April 24, 27, 28, 29, May 2, 3, June 5, 8, and November 19, 20, 23.

Compensation:$18.00-$22/hour depending on experience

Responsibilities/Duties

This is a physically demanding position that offers a deep immersion in both the science and art of horticulture. You will:

  • Report to the Director of Horticulture for your work assignments performing tasks as assigned using the best sustainable horticultural practices to maintain and beautify the landscape
  • Inspect young trees and prune to address structural issues and rejuvenate shrubs.
  • Support winter clean-up and snow removal efforts
  • Perform routine garden maintenance such as weeding, pruning, mulching, watering, raking, and composting
  • Assist in the installation of new plantings or expansion of planted areas.
  • Lawn renovation using core aerator
  • Identify and report safety or plant health concerns to the Director of Horticulture.
  • Supervise garden volunteers and interns
  • Support Montclair Foundation events and fundraisers as needed, with a few mandatory days on the annual calendar
Qualifications/Requirements

What You’ll Bring

  • Reliability and punctuality with the ability to maintain a consistent schedule
  • Strong communication and listening skills with ability to follow verbal instructions
  • Hands-on gardening experience, including plant identification and proper pruning techniques
  • A high standard for workplace safety
  • A keen eye for detail and aesthetics and the ability to visualize the outcome of your task
  • Ability to take direction and openness to feedback with a growth mindset
  • Safe operation of garden tools and equipment
  • Professionalism and integrity in all interactions, including with the public

Qualifications and Physical Requirements

  • Work outdoors in all types of weather, exposed to a wide assortment of plant materials, pollen, and dust
  • Capacity to perform repetitive movements such as digging, shoveling, and pruning
  • Push, pull, and lift 50 pounds consistently
  • Ability to push up to 200 pounds in a wheelbarrow (for example, 4 bags of ice-melt salt or grass seed)
  • Comfort with kneeling, squatting, bending, reaching, and standing for long periods
  • Valid driver’s license
  • Must be 18 years or older
Additional Information

To Apply:

Please email your resume and cover letter tolaura@montclairfoundation.org

Contact Information

Van Vleck House & Gardens/ The Montclair FoundationContact Name:Laura RobertsEmail:laura@montclairfoundation.org