Rose Kennedy Greenway Conservancy

Title: Gardener

Type of Position: Full-time, non-exempt

Reports to: Horticulture Operations Supervisor

Department: Horticulture

Salary: $23.32 hourly

Application Deadline: Applications are considered on a rolling basis. For priority consideration, apply by January 16, 2026.

Description

The Rose Kennedy Greenway Conservancy, the non-profit responsible for the management and care of The Rose Kennedy Greenway, seeks a Gardener to join our team. The Conservancy’s team of horticulture professionals care for nearly 17 acres of vibrant green space and extensive gardens including formal gardens, meadows, and native plantings, in the heart of downtown Boston using ecological and organic practices. The Conservancy has been a pioneer in ecological horticulture; among the first in the nation to care for a public park completely organically.

The Greenway Conservancy is committed to providing a park environment that is welcoming to racially, culturally, and economically diverse residents and visitors. You can read more about our mission, vision, and commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion on our website.

Responsibilities

The Gardener uses best organic and ecological practices to maintain The Greenway. The primary responsibility of the Gardener is to assist the Horticulturists with their daily work plan. The position reports to the Horticulture Operations Supervisor and supports the Director of Horticulture’s vision for gardens and landscape.

Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

• Support and assist the Horticulturist during daily operations, including ecological management, and volunteer engagements; contribute to weekly and seasonal planning.
• Perform general horticultural maintenance, including: planting, pruning, weeding, watering, mulching, irrigation repairs, etc.
• Follow safety policies and promote an overall culture of well-being and good health.
• Help to keep tools and equipment organized and in good working order.
• Maintain clean and organized work spaces and vehicles.
• Support accurate plant record keeping.
• Help to maintain the nursery area and plants.
• Engage with visitors and support a positive experience on The Greenway.
• Communicate effectively with others.
• Collaborate with and support other departments.
• Additional tasks as requested to help maintain the park and landscape.

Skills and Preferred Qualifications

• Previous work experience in garden or landscape maintenance, minimum of one-year in the field; two-years preferred.
• Horticulture or related education, training or certification is helpful; development opportunities are available.
• Basic plant knowledge is helpful.
• Ability to work productively independently, and as part of a team.
• Effective communication skills.
• Experience working with volunteers and effectively engaging and supporting diverse audiences and/or workplaces is a plus.
• Computer proficiency, especially in Google for Work (Drive, Docs, Sheets, Slides, Gmail) and Microsoft (Excel, PowerPoint, Word) is preferred. Training is available. 
• Must have a valid driver’s license and ability to drive Conservancy vehicles in downtown Boston to move event supplies. Vehicle training will be provided.
• The accepted candidate will be required to have a successful completion of a CORI and motor vehicle background check.
• We strongly encourage all incoming employees to be COVID-19 vaccinated.

Logistics

• Full-time, on-site position. Work week is Monday through Friday, 7:30 am - 3:30 pm; with paid 15-minute morning and 45-minute lunch breaks. Communications outside of regular shifts can be expected.
• Must be able to work outside in all types of weather; rain and winter outfitting is provided.
• Must be able to safely lift up to 50 lbs.
• May be stationary and experience changes in position for periods of time.
• Safely ascending to various heights is part of the work experience.
• Recording observations are included in daily operations.
• We strongly encourage all incoming employees to be COVID-19 vaccinated.

Compensation and Benefits

• The starting hourly compensation for this position is $23.32 per hour; scheduled overtime (1.5 x rate/hr) to support work plans is possible on weekends, evenings and holidays.

The Greenway Conservancy offers competitive benefits including: 

• Commuter stipend of $50 per week for employees who commute to the office five days per week and do not have hybrid work flexibility. Currently, this benefit is provided to our Horticulture, Maintenance, and Ranger staff.
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance: 80% of medical and dental premiums and 100% of the medical deductible are covered by the Conservancy. 
• Short- and long-term disability, life, and AD&D insurance: 100% of premiums covered by the Conservancy.
• Paid time off: 16 vacation days, 14.5 holidays, and 7 sick days annually.
• Retirement Savings: Simple IRA with 4% employer match after 2 years of employment.
• Commuter Benefits: Pre-tax commuter program for public transit and rail parking, plus free onsite office parking.
• Branded workwear is provided, including short and long-sleeved shirts, hats, sweatshirts, winter jacket, and rain gear.
• Professional development: Role-specific training and growth opportunities encouraged and supported.
• Additional Perks: Free/discounted admission to 50+ cultural organizations in New England; eligibility as a qualified employer for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.