Native Plant Gardener

Friends of The Underline

Miami

Job Summary

The Underline is a bold idea to reclaim 10 miles of land beneath the Miami Metrorail and transform it into a beautiful, active green space that becomes a magnet for residents and visitors alike. We are a 120 acre park and ecological corridor spanning 10-miles within the city. Friends of The Underline (FUL) is a nonprofit organization driving the realization of an innovative multimodal trail and open space that connects Miamians.

We are seeking an experienced Gardener to join our horticulture team in supporting the maintenance and care of The Underline’s native plant gardens along the 2.7-mile (and growing) trail. This role involves hands-on garden work, collaboration with a team of gardeners, working with landscape contractors, engagement with volunteers and the public, and assisting in educational programming. The Gardener will work under the direct supervision of the Horticulturist.

Essential Function

• Perform hands-on garden maintenance: planting, pruning, weeding, watering, mulching, raking, debris removal, and blowing.
• Implement Integrated Pest Management (IPM) practices.
• Monitor and report plant health and other concerns to the Horticulture Manager.
• Collaborate with the Horticulturist to apply best practices based on field conditions.
• Lead or support educational events (e.g., tours, field trips, workshops).
• Supervise and work alongside volunteers and horticulture apprentices on garden tasks.
• Maintain all garden areas to established standards, independently or as part of a team.
• Safely operate Underline vehicles (trucks, UTVs, golf carts, e-bikes, bicycles).
• Keep supply and gardening areas clean and organized.
• Procure and transport plants from local nurseries.
• Clean, store, and maintain tools properly.
• Engage with park visitors to foster stewardship and provide garden tours as needed.
• Perform other duties as assigned.
  
  

Skills And Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in horticulture, botany, floriculture, landscape architecture, or a related field OR at least 2 years of relevant work experience (e.g., public gardens, habitat restoration, landscaping).
• Valid driver’s license and authorization to work in the U.S.
• Proficient in English (verbal and written)
• Flexible schedule, including availability for weekends and evenings.
• Knowledge of basic plant physiology and South Florida plant identification.
• Familiarity with South Florida ecosystems (e.g., Pine Rocklands, Tropical Hardwood Hammocks, Dry Prairie) and their soils.
• Understanding of xeriscaping and low-water landscaping practices.
• Comfortable interacting with the public, including volunteers and school groups.
• Professional demeanor with staff, contractors, vendors, and visitors.
• Skilled in using landscaping tools (e.g., pruners, loppers, saws, shovels, augers, blowers).
• Physically able to walk long distances, stand for extended periods, lift up to 50 lbs, and perform tasks involving bending, stooping, and reaching.
• Ability to ascend/descend ladders and traverse uneven terrain.
  
  

Preferred Qualifications

• Carpentry skills and proficiency with tools (e.g., drills, power saws).
• Enthusiasm for South Florida’s native plant communities.
• Spanish fluency.
  
  

Working Conditions

This is an outdoor position with exposure to heat, sun, rain, sharp plants, and insects. The Underline is a public park in a dense urban environment, intersecting with transit lines, roads, and a multimodal trail. The role may involve working alone in public or remote areas of the park.

Benefits

• Medical
• Dental
• Vision
• Retirement with an employer match
• Paid Time Off
• Paid Holidays
  
  

Compensation

• This is an hourly, non-exempt position.
• Salary commensurate with experience
  
  

I How to Apply

Interested Applicants, Please Send Cover Letter And Resume To

asha.bertsch@theunderline.org

Apply Now

To apply for this position, please send an email to:

asha.bertsch@theunderline.org