Description

Winterthur Museum, Garden & Library encompasses an unrivaled museum of American decorative arts in its mansion and galleries and a magnificent 60-acre naturalistic garden—all set on 1,000 gorgeous acres.

Winterthur employs a wide array of positions in the areas of curatorial, horticulture, education, conservation, library, maintenance, marketing, development, technology, and administration.

At Winterthur, employment is more than just work. The Winterthur employee is offered a unique and rewarding experience that is rich in culture and natural beauty. Winterthur considers its employees and volunteers to be among its greatest assets and welcomes applications from candidates who will contribute their specific skills to its mission “to inspire, enlighten, and delight all of its visitors while preserving and enhancing [Winterthur]” and also uphold its core values of agility, excellence, innovation, integrity, inclusion, and transparency.

JOB DESCRIPTION:

The Arborist Fellow acquires, develops, and applies fundamental arboricultural concepts and skills through their active participation with Winterthur Arborist and Natural Lands staff in all aspects of tree care and arboricultural practices on the estate. The Arborist Fellow will also learn the characteristics and cultural requirements of trees, along with an understanding of the design principles of the Winterthur Garden and Estate, to assist in the planning of tree placement and replacement, aesthetic pruning, and maintenance treatments. The Arborist Fellow is considered essential personnel and will help with weather emergencies ie. snow removal, severe storm clean-up as well as work 2 – 3 rotating weekends a year.  They will participate in Winterthur events and outreach programs such as leading tours.

This fellowship is a one year, temporary position, with the potential for extension or the offer of an Arboriculture position upon completion.

Compensation: $17.00/hour

Work Schedule: In general, 35 hours per week M-F 7am to 2:30pm; occasional evening and weekend hours required

Benefits: Including, but not limited to, medical, dental, and vision insurance; generous paid time off plan including 10 holidays, vacation, personal, and sick time; 403b with employer match for eligible employees; discounts in the museum store and cafe; free general admission for you and your immediate family. Potential housing assistance is available.

Responsibilities:

1. Participate in all aspects of tree maintenance
   1. Assist and perform tree inspections and evaluations
   2. Planting, pruning (from the ground, climbing, and aerial lift), removal.
   3. Storm clean-up. Insect and disease diagnosis and treatment.
   4. Provide ground support for climber.
2. Develop and understanding of the history and design intent of the Winterthur Garden and Estate. Foster design intent through the incorporation of environmentally responsible methods or practices in assisting to maintain Winterthur’s trees.
3. Assist with equipment maintenance, including proper cleaning, sharpening maintenance and storage of job-related equipment, ie chainsaw, chipper, climbing and rigging gear.
4. Participate in arboricultural, safety, equipment, and maintenance training.
5. Assist in creating and presenting lectures, demonstrations and help provide tours for guests and other institutions. These can occur outside of normal working hours.

Requirements

JOB REQUIREMENTS:

Minimum Experience: Enrolled in an accredited arboriculture program or has successfully completed related curriculum with 6 months educational and/or field experience in the study of arboriculture or related field

Preferred Education: 2 years in an accredited arboriculture program or related field with Experience working in a public garden

Knowledge/Skills: 

1. Working knowledge of tree and arboricultural practices with the desire for continued education and collaboration with other institutions.
2. Ability to express ideas clearly orally and in writing, good interpersonal skills.
3. Working knowledge of Microsoft systems

Essential Functions:

1. Ability to operate manual transmission vehicles, heavy equipment, aerial lift truck, chainsaws, and brush chippers
2. Able to work at heights of up to 120 feet using ropes and climbing equipment.
3. Exposure to inclement weather, biting insects, poison ivy, herbicides, and fertilizers.
4. Able to stand, kneel or bend for extended periods, to traverse uneven ground, and lift 50 pounds.
5. Must possess and maintain a valid driver's license.