Gardener

Ghost Ranch is a remote, year-round, education and retreat center located in the high desert of northern New Mexico, guided by values of sustainability, inclusivity, equity, creativity, and spirituality. Guests come from near and far to enjoy a wide variety of programs, retreats, tours, and outdoor adventures. Ghost Ranch welcomes approximately 45,000 visitors each year and, with that level of activity, dedicated landscape maintenance is essential. We are seeking a passionate and skilled Gardener to serve as the proud caretaker of our gardens to ensure they are vibrant, healthy, and welcoming to all. This role involves hands-on care, creative beautification, and collaboration with volunteers and community partners to enhance the Ranch’s outdoor spaces.

Qualifications:
? Required:

• Valid Driver’s License with three years clean driving history.
• Ability to work in various weather conditions and perform physical labor. Able to
  lift 50 lbs.
• Strong knowledge of turf, ornamental, and native plants.
• Understanding of soil composition, fertilizers, and amendments.
• Familiarity with forest dynamics, tree growth habits, and ecosystem
  management.
• Expertise in plant growth techniques, including pruning and transplanting.
• Experience with irrigation system operation and maintenance.
• Ability to work independently while also overseeing volunteers in meaningful
  ways.

? Preferred:

• Experience and knowledge in high desert ecosystems
• Experience supervising volunteers
• Experience educating the public about plants and gardens of this region

• Plan and implement projects according to the needs and requirements specific to this high desert environment.
• Maintain and manage turf areas, supporting the needs of common grasses.
• Cultivate and manage ornamental and native plants, emphasizing seasonal interest, biodiversity, and pollinator support.
• Apply knowledge of forest dynamics, which includes knowledge of native trees and their growth habits.
• Manage plant growth through pruning, reduction, removal, and transplanting.
• Apply knowledge of soil type, soil structure, and nutrient needs, adding fertilizers and amendments as necessary.
• Manage irrigation systems to ensure efficient and sustainable water use.
• Beautify and enrich the gardens, introducing plantings and features that align with the Ranch’s environmental and conservation goals.

• Operations and Maintenance:

• Operate vehicles and light machinery as needed for landscape management.
• Ensure safe and effective use of tools, equipment, and irrigation systems.

• Volunteer Engagement and Partnership Relations:

• Work in partnership with volunteer groups or individuals, including local master gardeners.
• Plan and oversee volunteer workdays and projects.
• Cultivate relationships with local nurseries and other partners to maximize donations, discounts, and support for the gardens.
• Work in partnership with the Development Department to provide garden plans and progress reports to grant funders and donors.

Details & Benefits:
The Gardener works on location in Abiquiu, NM, and may require some weekend hours. This position is a full-time, year-round, non-exempt (hourly) position between $18-21/hour, depending on experience. Ghost Ranch offers excellent benefits, including affordable health, dental, and vision insurance, and a retirement plan with employer match. There are paid holidays, annual leave, and sick leave. Student loan repayment assistance for those who qualify. Employees receive lunch during working hours plus a discount in the retail store, and are encouraged to take one workshop per year at no cost. We are committed to practicing supportive management and work/life balance.

To Apply: Please apply online with a resume. For a paper application, please call or email the Human Resources Office at 505-685-4334 or anned@ghostranch.org.