Greater Philadelphia Cultural Alliance

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.

Winterthur offers 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 Grounds Management Intern will learn and apply professional turf and grounds care techniques while working closely with Winterthur’s Grounds staff to preserve the beauty and function of the Winterthur Estate. The intern will gain hands-on experience in all aspects of turf management and site maintenance, with occasional opportunities to assist with horticultural tasks throughout the historic garden.

Compensation: $15.45/hour

Benefits: Including, but not limited to, 403b with employer match for eligible employees; discounts in the museum store and cafe; free general admission for you and your immediate family. Limited free housing available on site.

Work Schedule: This is a seasonal position expected to last from May 19 – August 14, 2026. Monday through Friday, 7:00 am to 2:30 pm (35 hours/week plus optional 5 extra hours). Start and end dates may be flexible.

Responsibilities:

1. Turf & Grounds Maintenance: Learn and perform all tasks necessary for the health and appearance of turf and grounds areas, including mowing, trimming, aeration, fertilization, irrigation management, and equipment operation.

2. Site Maintenance: Assist with the care and upkeep of estate infrastructure including paths, roads, signs, benches, walls, and vehicles, following safe and established procedures.

3. Horticultural Support: Work alongside horticulture staff as needed to support planting, mulching, pruning, and general garden maintenance activities across the estate.

4. Environmental Stewardship: Develop an understanding of Winterthur’s approach to land management, sustainability, and ecological responsibility as they relate to turf and grounds care.

5. Continuing Education: Participate in a variety of training sessions including turf care demonstrations, equipment operation, plant identification, and field trips to broaden understanding of the wider field of public horticulture and grounds management.

Minimum Experience: Enrolled student or recent graduate of an accredited college or university with one semester of completed coursework in turf management, horticulture, or a related field. Three months of practical, hands-on experience in turf management, horticulture, or a related field.

Preferred Experience: One year of experience in horticulture or landscape maintenance. Two years of completed coursework preferred.

Knowledge/Skills:

1. Ability to operate horticultural hand-tools and power equipment safely.

2. Ability to execute oral and written directions.

3. Basic knowledge of gardening techniques and terminology.

4. Ability to express ideas clearly, orally and in writing.

5. Basic knowledge of computers.

6. Basic knowledge of I.P.M and plant taxonomy and anatomy.

Essential Functions:

Exposure to pesticides, safe operation of hand-tools and motorized garden equipment.
Must be able to lift 50 lbs.
Exposure to insect bites and poison ivy.
May be asked to work in inclement weather or emergency situations.
Have adequate hearing and sight in order to be aware of nearby guests and staff when the employee is using or is around equipment such as mowers, weed-eaters, blowers and sprayers.
Ability to push mowers, blowers and walk over rough terrain.
Must possess and maintain a valid drivers license in order to operate Winterthur vehicles

*At the time of application, you will be required to submit a cover letter and resume. Should you advance in the interview process, we will require a copy of your most recent transcript and two letters of recommendation.

The deadline for applications is March 20, 2026. Searches may close once a suitable candidate has been identified or may continue beyond the deadline if suitable candidates have not been identified. Please note: Winterthur is currently unable to consider applicants from countries outside the United States.