The Conservatory Specialist plays a critical role in the daily horticultural care and management of the Crystal Bridge Tropical Conservatory. This hands-on position is responsible for ensuring plant health, aesthetic display standards, and ideal environmental conditions within the conservatory. The role involves supervising staff and volunteers, implementing plant care programs, supporting garden operations, and contributing to the success of exhibitions and special events.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
Oversees and participates in the daily care of plant collections, including watering, pruning, staking, deadheading, fertilizing, soil conditioning, weeding, planting, mulching, trash removal, spraying, and other horticultural tasks.
Maintains ideal growing conditions within the conservatory, including light, humidity, temperature, air circulation, water quality, and soil nutrients.
Implements and manages an Integrated Pest Management (IPM) program to keep plants pest-free.
Develops and follows fertilizer and nutrient application schedules to ensure plant vigor.
Designs and installs high-quality, seasonal, and educational plant displays for public engagement.
Coordinates and supervises daily work assignments for the indoor horticulture team and volunteers.
Assists and participates in plant collection evaluations and development.
Maintains accurate records related to plant collections and assists with plant labeling and data management.
Tracks conservatory-related expenses and provides input for budgeting purposes.
Ensures safe work practices are followed, reducing hazards and minimizing public interference.
Assists with seasonal rotations, special exhibitions, tours, events, and general public garden preparations.
Behaves in a professional, team-oriented manner that fosters a collaborative and inclusive work environment.
May assist in developing signage or written content for plant displays and public education.
Uses appropriate power tools and equipment (e.g., blowers, sprayers, saws).
Performs other duties as assigned.
Supervisory Responsibilities
Supervises one full-time Indoor Horticulturist and coordinates volunteer efforts as needed.
Education and Experience
Bachelor’s degree in Horticulture, Botany, Biology, or a related field preferred.
Minimum of two years of practical and relevant horticultural work experience.
Strong understanding of tropical and desert plants, plant care techniques, pest and disease management, and indoor environmental control.
Certificates, Licenses, and Registrations
Valid Oklahoma Driver’s License.
Ability to obtain a certified pesticide applicator’s license for indoor pest management.
Computer Equipment and Software Requirements
Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook).
Ability to use plant collection management databases (preferred but not required).
General word processing and research skills.
Skills and Abilities Required
Strong work ethic and initiative.
Excellent observation and attention to detail.
Ability to follow written and oral instructions.
Ability to lead, work independently, as part of a team, and with volunteers.
Friendly, polite, and service-oriented demeanor when interacting with the public.
Scheduling flexibility, including availability for weekends and holidays, as needed.
Clear verbal and written communication skills.
Work Environment
Primarily indoors within the conservatory; frequent exposure to heat, humidity, and moisture.
Potential exposure to pollens, insects, chemical agents (fertilizers, pesticides, herbicides), and other allergens.
Work may involve navigating slippery surfaces or uneven ground.
Occasional outdoor work and interactions with moving equipment or public traffic flow.
Some tasks may be performed at varying heights or in less-accessible locations.
Physical Requirements
Must be able to work in high heat and humidity for extended periods.
Must be able to lift, push, pull, and carry objects up to 50 pounds.
Frequent bending, twisting, stooping, reaching, and other repetitive movements.
Ability to transport and move potted plants and plant trays of varying sizes and weights.
Must be able to use stairs and navigate uneven terrain as part of daily duties.
May be required to perform tasks at elevated heights (e.g., using ladders or lifts).
