Arboretum Operations Specialist
The Pennsylvania State UniversityAPPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:
CURRENT PENN STATE EMPLOYEE (faculty, staff, technical service, or student), please login to Workday to complete the internal application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.
CURRENT PENN STATE STUDENT (not employed previously at the university) and seeking employment with Penn State, please login to Workday to complete the student application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.
If you are NOT a current employee or student, please click “Apply” and complete the application process for external applicants.
Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work location. For additional information on remote work at Penn State, see Notice to Out of State Applicants.
This position is funded for 1 year(s); continuation past 1 year(s) will be based on university need, performance, and/or availability of funding.
POSITION SPECIFICS
The Penn State Chestnut Research Specialist is responsible for furthering success of research performed on threatened forest tree species, especially those in the eastern US forests. This position is responsible for implementation and configuration of research, education, and demonstration research field sites located at The Pennsylvania State University and affiliated external trials in the Mid-Atlantic region. In addition, this position will serve as a hub of information for partner growers participating in varied forest tree restoration projects and natural lands management/stewardship, especially throughout the state of Pennsylvania.
This position is responsible for monitoring, care, and ensuring survival of chestnut breeding stock as well as selecting superior specimens for use in research. They collect ecological, genetic, and other scientific data in on specialized databases. They are versed in using specialized greenhouse spaces directly linked to their area of research; as well as specialized plantings in field sites to achieve their goals as directed.
Oversee the installation, operation, and maintenance of all gardens and facilities within the Arboretum
Set and maintain overall horticultural maintenance standards and priorities; provide general guidance and oversight for routine garden work
Provide horticultural guidance/leadership for large-scale Arboretum projects
Design annual and seasonal plantings and communicate plant needs to nursery staff, Plant Records, and Horticulture Coordinator as appropriate
Identify and stay abreast of all facilities maintenance, repair, and improvement needs
Submit work orders for all facilities work; provide specific guidance/information for internal and external technicians to complete required tasks and projects
Develop and continue to update guiding horticultural documents, including Arboretum Maintenance Manual
Lead staff in planning and execution of seasonal outdoor art exhibition and related events
Participate in the planning and marketing of events
Directly oversee garden volunteers and natural lands work groups
Provide horticultural training for Arboretum docents and greeters
Collaborate with staff and volunteers on improvements to volunteer program and development of volunteer training materials
MINIMUM EDUCATION, WORK EXPERIENCE & REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS
Bachelor's Degree 1+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience accepted Required Certifications: None
This is a full-time position working an average of 40 hours per week with the possibility of some longer weeks during the main growing seasons of March–October.
Preferred Qualifications:
Ability to learn and use new computer programs a must, as is an eye for detail when entering scientific data.
This position requires an individual who can work independently both in the office and in the field once initial instruction is given.
BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES
This position requires the following clearances in addition to applicable background checks: PA State Police Criminal Background Check, PA Child Abuse History Clearance Form, Federal (FBI) Fingerprint Criminal Background Check, and the National Sex Offender Registry Clearance (NSOR). Additional clearances may be necessary if you resided outside of Pennsylvania in the past five years.Penn State does not sponsor or take over sponsorship of a staff employment Visa. Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S.
SALARY & BENEFITS
The salary range for this position, including all possible grades, is $38,300.00 - $55,500.00.
Salary Structure - Information on Penn State's salary structure
Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional well-being. In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans and substantial paid time off which includes holidays, vacation and sick time. One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children. For more detailed information, please visit our Benefits Page.
CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS
Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here.
EEO IS THE LAW
Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473.
Penn State is committed to and accountable for advancing equity, respect, and belonging. We embrace individual uniqueness, as well as a culture of belonging that supports equity initiatives, leverages the educational and institutional benefits of inclusion in society, and provides opportunities for engagement intended to help all members of the community thrive. We value belonging as a core strength and an essential element of the university’s teaching, research, and service mission.