About Fernwood
Fernwood’s mission is to welcome and inspire all to explore, discover, and connect with nature and one another. Beautiful gardens surrounded by forest are tucked into a 105-acre landscape of cultivated and natural areas along the scenic St. Joseph River valley. Miles of trails await, and indoors, visitors may enjoy an art gallery, fern conservatory, Education Center, café, and gift shop. Fernwood offers many possibilities for learning and enrichment, including classes, workshops, lectures, field trips, camps, tours, exhibits, concerts, and special events.
Job Description
Join Fernwood this fall as a LIGHTS Installation Specialist and help bring our acclaimed LIGHTS holiday display to life. You’ll work alongside our experienced team to install dazzling light displays and custom elements throughout the gardens, utilizing hand tools and ladders under professional guidance. Training will be provided.
This is a unique opportunity to be part of a cherished community tradition while gaining handson experience in event installations and outdoor lighting. If you’re motivated, safety-minded, and eager to contribute to a magical seasonal experience, we encourage you to apply.
Reports To: Director of Horticulture
Employment Status: Seasonal, Temporary, 80 labor hours total
Schedule: Tuesday-Saturday 9 am-5 pm; October 20 - 31.
Compensation: $18/hour. $150.00 Bonus Potential for completed tour of employment and successful completion of job
Qualifications
? Ability to safely climb ladders and work in all weather conditions
? Physical stamina to perform manual labor during 8-hr. shifts/5 days a week
? Competency and comfort utilizing hand tools such as pliers, hammers, and utility knives
? Ability to lift 50 lbs
? Ability to work in an organized manner considerate of required timelines
? Ability to pilot utility vehicles in a safe and publicly conscious fashion
? Adherence to rules of conduct and guest focus as a representative of Fernwood Botanical Garden
Additional Information:
? We recommend appropriate outdoor/fall season attire, closed-toe shoes and gloves
? Inclement weather is possible/likely during installation activities
? Necessary tools and material supplies will be provided
How to Apply: Please email a letter of interest, including relevant qualifications, to Jonathon Hensley, Fernwood’s Director of Horticulture, at jhensley@fernwoodbotanical.org.
Application Deadline: October 10, 2026
