Plant Collections Apprenticeship

ORGANIZATION: Mount Auburn Cemetery comprises 175 acres and is situated in Watertown and Cambridge near Boston, Massachusetts. Founded in 1831, it is a National Historic Landmark, recognized as the first “rural cemetery” and the inspiration for the American Parks Movement during the 19th century. It features 5,000 trees and more than 20,000 plants overall.

POSITION SUMMARY: The Plant Collections Department manages the mapping, labeling, and general record keeping of over 19,500 plants/massed plantings. This position includes engaging in botanic garden collections management with a focus on field-check verifications and compiling data for the Flora Mount Auburn app. The apprenticeship lasts for 9 months.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Under supervision of the Plant Records Manager, the apprentice will work with a wide range of plants using BG-Base and ESRI mapping software. The role includes fieldwork to check living specimens against the database, including photographing and tracking data. Indoor tasks involve data entry, digital mapping, plant label production, and light photo editing.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Knowledge of botanical identification and nomenclature; background in horticulture or landscape design.
• Familiarity with temperate flora of eastern North America and Asia.
• Experience with botanical GIS and ESRI software.
• Ability to take botanical reference photos and perform light digital editing.
• Organizational and communication skills.
• Valid driver’s license.

REQUIRED PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

• Ability to operate an electric golf cart or similar vehicle.
• Mobility on the grounds in variable weather conditions.
• Ability to remain stationary for long periods.

Mount Auburn Cemetery is an equal-opportunity employer.