Lead Gardener assists the Park Manager in managing daily horticulture operations in the Outdoor Gardens, working with staff and/or volunteers in planting, weeding, pruning, and landscape maintenance. This position involves overseeing seasonal tasks (planting/winterizing), maintaining irrigation systems, operating machinery, and ensuring high-quality, safe, aesthetically pleasing gardens. Candidates must work effectively in a team environment with park staff and volunteers, represent the park district positively, and communicate clearly with park visitors and program participants.

Rate of Pay: $15-20 per hour, commensurate with experience.

Hours: Up to 39 hours per week, late April through late October. 

Interested applicants should apply and submit a résumé by Friday, April 17, 2026.
Requirements

Completion of secondary education (high school diploma or GED). Two years of college in the field of natural resources, education, environmental science, or a related field is preferred. Must possess a valid Ohio driver’s license and complete a background check. Lorain County Metropolitan Park District policy prohibits hiring new employees who are tobacco users.

1. Excellent visitor service, communication, and interpersonal skills.
2. Coordinate daily tasks, supervise staff/volunteers, and ensure adherence to safety protocols and horticultural standards
3. Execute and oversee planting, pruning, mulching, watering, weeding, and fertilizing of trees, shrubs, annuals, and perennials.
4. Monitor for pests and diseases, applying treatments as necessary.
5. Maintain irrigation systems and safely operate/repair landscaping machinery such as blowers, mowers, and power tools.
6. Prepare beds in spring, maintain areas through summer, and perform fall cleanup and winterization.
7. Strong knowledge of plant identification, plant care, and horticultural practices.
8. Ability to perform heavy manual labor, such as lifting 50+ lbs, digging, and working in various weather conditions.
9. Ability to operate and maintain equipment like tillers and blowers.
10. Willingness to work outside in all types of weather.
11. Ability to lift up to 30 lbs. and walk up to 5 miles in a day.
12. Ability to work well with others and individually, performing duties as assigned, as a member of the Miller Nature Preserve team.

Must possess a valid Ohio driver’s license and complete a background check. Lorain County Metropolitan Park District policy prohibits hiring new employees who are tobacco users. Lorain County Metro Parks is an equal-opportunity employer.