Norfolk Botanical Garden seeks a passionate and experienced Conservatory Manager to lead daily operations of the new Perry Conservatory—an innovative space where horticultural excellence, sustainability, and guest experience come together. Reporting to the Conservatory Director, the Conservatory Manager oversees plant collections, staff, and volunteers to create and maintain stunning displays that reflect the Garden’s mission.
The ideal candidate combines creative vision and leadership skills with technical expertise in tropical and desert plant care, environmental controls, and extensive knowledge of plant identification, garden design, and disease/pest recognition. This position offers the opportunity to shape a world-class conservatory that engages guests and models environmental leadership. Typical schedule would be Tuesday through Saturday or Sunday through Thursday. The schedule for this position may require some evening, weekend, and holiday work.
Essential Functions:
Efficiently oversee the day-to-day operation and care of the 26,000 square foot Perry Conservatory.
Supervise and direct the work of two or more Horticulturalists and make decisions regarding hiring, firing, and disciplining such employees.
Monitor temperature, humidity, ventilation, and light levels under the direction of an authorized user to ensure optimal plant growth conditions.
Further the Garden’s mission through teaching classes, leading tours, writing articles, giving garden club talks, participating in regional outreach events, and providing excellent customer service at all times.
Develop and expand an in-depth knowledge of plants in the Conservatory, make plant selection suggestions, and assist the Director in locating desirable additions to the botanical collection.
Assist with Garden-wide special events and other duties as assigned.
Qualifications:
Must have a valid driver’s license.
Must obtain a VA Registered Pesticide Applicator’s license within 6 months of hiring.
Must have a basic working knowledge of botanical nomenclature.
Bachelor’s Degree in Horticulture, Botany, or related field and three years’ experience working in a conservatory or greenhouse.
Preferred candidates should have knowledge of and experience working with tropicals and succulents and/or plants in a greenhouse or conservatory setting.
Availability to work occasional evenings, weekends, or holidays as needed.
