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Ecological Gardener Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Ri Asla

NY · On-site

When we use these simple methods, our gardens become a feast for the senses, hosting a healthy and ... The Ecological Landscape Project Manager will work directly with Edwina von Gal helping to guide ...

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How much do ecological gardener jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for ecological gardener in the United States is $21.42, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $24.28 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an ecological gardener?

An ecological gardener is a professional who designs, plants, and maintains gardens using environmentally friendly and sustainable practices. They focus on creating landscapes that support biodiversity, conserve water, enrich soil health, and reduce the use of chemicals. Ecological gardeners often use native plants, encourage pollinators, and work to create habitats for local wildlife. The goal is to create beautiful outdoor spaces that are in harmony with nature and benefit both people and the environment.

How does an ecological gardener typically collaborate with landscape architects and property owners to design sustainable gardens?

Ecological Gardeners often work closely with landscape architects and property owners to ensure that garden designs are both aesthetically pleasing and environmentally sustainable. This collaboration usually involves site assessments, plant selection discussions, and developing maintenance plans that prioritize native species and biodiversity. Regular meetings and clear communication are key, as Ecological Gardeners provide expertise on soil health, water conservation, and habitat creation while aligning with the client’s vision and the architect’s plans. This team approach helps create resilient landscapes that support local ecosystems and meet the needs of all stakeholders.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an ecological gardener, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Ecological Gardener, you need a solid understanding of plant biology, soil health, sustainable landscaping practices, and often some formal training or certification in horticulture or permaculture. Familiarity with organic gardening tools, irrigation systems, and native plant identification apps or databases is highly valuable. Strong observation skills, environmental awareness, and effective teamwork or communication abilities help you excel in this field. These skills are crucial for creating resilient, biodiversity-friendly gardens that align with ecological principles and client or community needs.

What cities are hiring for Ecological Gardener jobs?

Cities with the most Ecological Gardener job openings:

What states have the most Ecological Gardener jobs?

States with the most job openings for Ecological Gardener jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Ecological Gardener jobs?

For Ecological Gardener jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Ecological Gardener job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 58% Full Time, 41% Part Time, and 1% Temporary. Highlights an 59% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 39% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,544 per year, or $21.4 per hour.

Gardener 2

Santa Barbara, CA • On-site

Santa Barbara Botanic Garden Inc
See more jobs at Santa Barbara Botanic Garden Incexternal

$22 - $24/hr

Full-time

Posted 26 days ago

Job description

Overview:

The Gardener 2 position is principally responsible for garden maintenance and oversight of designated sections at the Santa Barbara Botanic Garden. Under the direction of the Grounds Manager (or their designee), the Gardener 2 will manage their garden section(s) daily, and will proactively seek and aid other members of the Horticulture team to maintain a high aesthetic standard, across the Garden, for public enjoyment. 

This is a front-line position in primary plant care, including: planting and weeding (by hand and tools); manual watering and operation of irrigation systems; mulching, pruning, grooming and dead heading; trapping rodents, removal of trash and debris; and generally maintaining aesthetic standards of the Garden for members and guests. Gardeners also participate in cleaning and maintaining tools and keeping an inventory of supplies, ensuring all equipment is in safe, working order. Gardeners should understand that the Garden is a museum-curated living collection and the importance of their role in maintaining integrity of plant labeling and high-quality plant care. This is a full-time (40 hours/week), non-exempt position that reports to the Grounds Manager.

Essential Functions:

  • Provide general plant care, including: soil preparation, planting, watering, weeding, pruning, fertilizing, soil amending, mulching, and monitoring/controlling pest populations.
  • Assist with general maintenance of Garden grounds, including: trails, brush chipping, compost pile turning and seasonal weed mitigation in undeveloped sections of the Garden.
  • Participate in staff crew days outside of their section and lead volunteer work crews, when assigned.
  • Operate non-mechanical tools such as shovels, rakes, shears, saws, wheelbarrows, etc.
  • Operate mechanical power tools such as chain saws, blowers, line trimmers, electric carts, tractors, and manual vehicles.
  • Install, maintain, troubleshoot and repair irrigation systems. 
  • Conduct all assigned tasks in accordance with the Garden’s safety procedures.
  • May be assigned to perform one or more of the following:
    • Water containerized plants within the nurseries
    • Substitute to cover other Gardeners’ holidays, vacations, and sick days
    • Participate in setup for Garden events when needed
    • Train volunteers in safe and effective gardening tasks when needed
  • Proactively participates in teamwork with coworkers to ensure the Garden is maintained to a high aesthetic degree for public enjoyment.
  • Maintain positive and professional working relationships with all staff, volunteers and visitors. Assists visitors in answering questions and wayfinding as needed to ensure great customer experience. 

Knowledge and Abilities: 

  • Proficiency in MS Word and Outlook email for effective written communication in a timely manner.
  • Must manage their time and work under pressure to meet deadlines and priorities.
  • Knowledge of California plants and their cultivation preferred. 
  • Must be able to stand/walk for extended periods of time, lift and carry up to 75 lbs., bend, squat, and walk the Garden trails.
  • Tolerance of an outdoor work environment including exposure to outdoor environmental conditions, including: extreme temperature fluctuations, rain, dust, allergens, poison oak, insects, small wild animals, and sun exposure.
  • Ability to perform physically strenuous work assignments on a regular basis, 8 hours a day. 

 Qualifications and Experience: 

  • Two years of applied work experience in garden maintenance, preferably in a public garden setting.
  • College coursework in horticulture, ecology, wildlife science, and/or habitat restoration preferred.
  • Experience with ornamental garden techniques and standards preferred.

Certificates & Licenses:

  • Must have valid California driver license and maintain an acceptable driving record (this position requires driving a Garden cart and Garden vehicles).