Job Description
Req Id:  40863
Job Title:  Seasonal Worker - Railway Garden Attendant, Gabis Arboretum
City:  Valparaiso
Job Description: 

Job Summary

The Gabis Arboretum Railway Garden is an outdoor G-gauge model train garden that tells the amazing story of America’s steam engine history and its impact on the U.S. Civil War, expansion west, and the Industrial Revolution. The arboretum is seeking an enthusiastic, reliable, and service-orientated team member to support general operations within the Railway Garden. This role involves hands-on work with model trains, garden maintenance, facility upkeep, and event support.

 

*Students May Apply

 

Pay:

  • $13.00/hour

 

Schedule:

  • The schedule is flexible and dependent upon business needs
  • Weekends are required

 

Position Duration:

  • April 20, 2026 –October 31, 2026

Duties and Responsibilities

Model Train Operations

  • Operate the G-gauge model trains within the Railway Garden exhibit using a digital command control system
  • Support the upkeep and repair of trains, tracks, and scenic elements
  • Perform other duties as assigned

 

Garden Maintenance

  • Perform routine gardening tasks including weeding, watering, pruning, mulching, planting, mowing, trimming, and raking to maintain the Railway Garden’s appearance

 

Facility Maintenance

  • Assist with custodial tasks in the Railway Garden and Depot
  • Support end-of-day closing procedures for the Depot and Railway Garden

Education

  • High School Diploma/GED preferred

Experience

Training will be provided but the most successful candidates will have a combination of experience and skills in the following areas:

 

  • Basic mechanical aptitude for operating and maintaining model trains
  • Familiarity with small tools and garden equipment
  • Ability to push, pull, bend, lift 30 lbs., navigate and climb rocky surfaces, stand and walk for extended periods of time
  • Comfortable working outdoors in a variety of weather conditions
  • Strong interpersonal and verbal communication skills; ability to interact positively with guests of all ages
  • A positive, team-oriented attitude and willingness to assist as needed
  • Willing to work most weekends and occasional evenings for special events

FLSA Status

Non-Exempt
Posting Start Date:  2/12/26