Non-Exempt Temporary or Casual

Rooted in plant science and community, we grow knowledge and inspire action to support thriving ecosystems and our vital relationship with nature.
The Minnesota Landscape Arboretum, part of the University of Minnesota's College of Food, Agricultural and Natural Resource Sciences (CFANS), is a public garden, research center, and horticultural education institution. Located in Chaska, Minnesota, the Arboretum spans over 1,200 acres of gardens, woodlands, prairies, and
trails. Since its founding in 1958, it has served as a community hub and living museum, promoting environmental stewardship, plant conservation, and horticultural excellence. Welcoming over 500,000 visitors annually, the Arboretum advances the University's land-grant mission through research, education, and public engagement.
The Arboretum serves a broad and diverse public audience, offering employees the opportunity to be part of a mission-driven organization that connects people and plants in meaningful ways. Depending on the role, team members may engage with visitors, members, donors, community partners, or volunteers- whether through formal responsibilities or everyday interactions. Volunteers, in particular, are essential collaborators, bringing energy and support to programs, operations, and events. Working at the Arboretum means joining a passionate community dedicated to environmental stewardship, education, and creating an inclusive, welcoming space for all

Responsibilities
* Customer Service
Greet customers, take orders accurately, and address inquiries or concerns.

* Order Fulfillment
Prepare food and beverage orders, assemble meals, and ensure correct food presentation.

* Payment Processing
Operate cash registers or POS systems, handle cash and credit card transactions, and provide change.

* Workstation Maintenance
Keep the work area clean and organized, performing tasks like sweeping, mopping, and trash removal.

* Inventory & Stocking
Restock workstations

* Various duties as assigned by the manager
All employees at any given time may be expected to handle food and beverage including but not limited to the following: meat, beef, pork, chicken, fish, dairy products, nuts, vegetables, etc. Employees will be expected to follow safety, quality, and customer service standards. Any of the assigned duties may take place at various dining locations across the Arboretum campus (i.e. Farm at the Arb, Rootstock Restaurant, etc.).

Qualifications
* Food Safety: Basic understanding of food sanitation and cleanliness.
* Communication: Strong communication skills for interacting with customers and team members.
* Customer Service: A positive, friendly, and enthusiastic attitude to ensure customer satisfaction.
* Efficiency: Ability to work quickly and efficiently in a fast-paced environment.
* Attention to Detail: Accuracy in taking orders, handling payments, and preparing food.
* Basic Math Skills: For handling cash and calculating bills.
* Teamwork: Ability to collaborate with other team members.

Preferred Qualifications
* 1 or more years of customer service experience
* Food service experience

Rootstock is the Arboretum's own restaurant located on the second floor of the Oswald Visitor Center. Operating since Summer of 2024, Rootstock is a 'plant forward, meat supported' restaurant focusing on local and seasonal vegetables and meats, providing fresh, comforting dishes throughout the year.

Pay Range: $18.00; depending on education/qualifications/experience.

Retirement plan options are available for Civil Service, Faculty, Labor-Represented, Professional & Administrative, and Temp Casual classifications. Learn more about retirement plans.

The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission. The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.

The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. To learn more about diversity at the U: http://diversity.umn.edu

Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment.

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC)

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC), is among the largest public research universities in the country, offering undergraduate, graduate, and professional students a multitude of opportunities for study and research. Located at the heart of one of the nation's most vibrant, diverse metropolitan communities, students on the campuses in Minneapolis and St. Paul benefit from extensive partnerships with world-renowned health centers, international corporations, government agencies, and arts, nonprofit, and public service organizations.

At the University of Minnesota, we are proud to be recognized by the Star Tribune as a Top Workplace for 2021, as well as by Forbes as Best Employers for Women and one of America's Best Employers (2015, 2018, 2019, 2023), Best Employer for Diversity (2019, 2020), Best Employer for New Grads (2018, 2019), and Best Employer by State (2019, 2022).