Penn State Job Catalog

Additional levels that exist for this job profile can be seen below.

The defined natural career progression within or between job profiles.

Arboretum Operations

The Arboretum Operations Specialist oversees the day-to-day operations of the Arboretum. This role coordinates maintenance activities, facilities, on site teaching, and research activities; assists in the planning and oversight of special projects; directs horticultural and facilities maintenance; responsible for the development of new gardens and collections via landscape design and plant selection as well as curatorial oversight of plant collections documentation.

• 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

Level:

– Intermediate Professional

Base Description:

– Completes activities, tasks, and/or projects of a functional nature.

Level Summary:

– Demonstrates ability to perform intermediate tasks in defined skill areas. Demonstrates intermediate knowledge of internal procedures. Works under general supervision, performing assignments that may be varied and sometimes difficult. Supports team decisions and follows through with team responsibilities. Interprets and communicates information clearly and accurately. Demonstrates intermediate problem–solving skills.

Supervisory Responsibilities:

– May serve as direct supervisor for part–time, student, and/or temporary workers or volunteers

Fiscal Responsibilities:

– May validate and pay invoices

Problem Solving:

– Encounters generally routine problems; occasionally faces more complex and/or varied problems
– Typically follows recommended course of action and procedures to resolve problems
– Applies knowledge of larger unit goals, priorities, and related procedures in determining course of action

Independence of Action:

– Work is generally monitored by supervisor
– Detailed instructions and procedures are generally provided
– Uses available guidelines to make appropriate adaptations to routine situations and refers other situations to supervisor

Communication and Collaboration:

– Communicates internally within working unit and/or the University
– May communicate with external audiences
– Collaborates closely with team members
– Interprets and communicates information, ideas and instructions clearly and accurately both verbally and in written materials intended for distribution

• Comp Grade – 5
• Minimum – $38,300.00
• MidPoint – $46,900.00
• Maximum – $55,500.00