Job Tag: Conservation

The Wildlife Heritage Foundation is a statewide, 501(c)(3) land trust dedicated to protecting, enhancing, and restoring wildlife habitat on lands conserved for the benefit of future generations. WHF holds nearly 100,000 acres on over 190 conservation easements and fee title lands throughout California in both rural and urban areas. We work collaboratively with landowners, government agencies, and conservation partners to secure and manage critical landscapes for wildlife and natural resources. WHF has been accredited by the Land Trust Alliance since 2008 and is a member in good standing of the California Council of Land Trusts. You can learn more at www.wildlifeheritage.org.

POSITION SUMMARY:

The primary responsibility of the Natural Resource Manager is to manage large, natural properties held by WHF as vital habitat for plant and animal species, intact natural resources, and functional ecological systems. Most properties are managed grasslands, often with special status wildlife/plant species, water bodies, and other natural resources that are the focus of management efforts. You will report to and collaborate regularly with WHF’s Senior Wildlife Biologist.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

Provide management of WHF preserves including planning, management, annual site monitoring, and maintenance activities.
Oversee, implement, and coordinate land management activities (with particular emphasis on vegetation and grazing management) and infrastructure maintenance (e.g., repairing fences, posting signs, or irrigation systems).
Conduct simple enhancement and/or restoration activities on WHF properties.
Assess management responsibilities for preserves and determine if/when additional services are needed, including through contracted providers.
Monitor and track contractor performance.
Conduct inspections of preserves to ensure compliance with conservation easement terms and management requirements and prepare corresponding written reports.
Maintain professional, positive, and effective communication with entities and diverse stakeholders, such as project proponents, land managers, landowners, resource agencies, community members, original indigenous peoples, consultants, state and federal regulatory personnel, and other conservation organizations.
Assist in the fieldwork and preparation of land management documents for new projects.
Manage and coordinate vehicle and equipment maintenance and repair.
Assist the Stewardship team with monitoring and biotic surveys.
Other responsibilities and duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS:

Required:

Dedication to the protection and management of California’s plants, wildlife and natural resources.
Knowledge of natural resource land management practices, including, but not limited to, annual grassland and conservation grazing management. Experience conducting Residual Dry Matter measurements is a plus.
Familiarity with California grassland and woodland communities, including common invasive plant and animal species.
Ability to work efficiently to timely meet habitat management goals.
Willingness to attend training sessions or conferences to improve skills and knowledge needed to perform assigned tasks.
Openness to new management strategies and techniques.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to communicate complex information clearly and professionally to diverse audiences.
Ability to build positive relationships and navigate potentially sensitive conversations with landowners and stakeholders.
Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
Knowledge and ability to utilize hand-held GPS equipment, take photographs, and read topographical and other maps.
Competency using common land management equipment and tools such as weed eaters, chainsaws, and mowers.
Competency operating off-highway vehicles and trailering equipment.
Competence in working with common software programs, such as Word, Excel, and Adobe Acrobat, as well as email and the internet.
Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative team.
Valid California driver’s license and willingness/ability to travel throughout WHF’s service area, sometimes on short notice.
Ability to conduct fieldwork involving hiking over uneven terrain in various weather conditions.

Preferred:

Direct experience working for a land trust.
Two to five years of experience in land management and resource conservation.
Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Science, Natural Resource Management, Biology, Agriculture, or related fields. (Experience in land management and resource conservation may serve as a substitute for a bachelor’s degree.)
Proficiency with GIS software (e.g., ArcGIS).

Compensation and Benefits:

The annual wage range for this non-exempt position is $52,000 – $69,680, commensurate with experience and qualifications. Wildlife Heritage Foundation offers comprehensive employee benefits as part of our total compensation package, including health, dental, vision insurance, retirement plan contributions (SIMPLE IRA), thirteen (13) paid holidays, and an additional holiday for one’s birthday.

The Conservation Engagement Manager creates, develops and implements conservation
engagement initiatives at ZooMontana. This position sits within a new, institution-wide
approach to connect both guests and staff with ZooMontana’s mission, conservation work, and
opportunities to act for wildlife. The Conservation Engagement Manager will facilitate
interpretive and educational programs, events, facilitate and maintain conservation
partnerships, and integrate conservation initiatives throughout ZooMontana.

Essential Functions:
• Develop and coordinate conservation engagement activities at ZooMontana to connect
staff members, zoo guests, and community members to nature. Activities include guest
and/or community programs, behavior change campaigns, citizen science projects, and
special events.
• Facilitate and develop communication that engages both internal and external audiences
in the stories and achievements of ZooMontana’s conservation initiatives.
• Create physical, digital, and visual materials that aid in conservation interpretation.
• Collaborate with other departments within ZooMontana regarding program initiatives.
• Foster meaningful partnerships and sustain relationships with other related conservation
organizations to further ZooMontana’s commitment as a leader in local conservation.
• Travel throughout the state of Montana and/or greater to increase conservation
engagement impact and reach underserved communities.
• Coordinate and participate in local field work opportunities and/or collaborations.
• Develop ways to further advance ZooMontana sustainable practices.
• Develop and conduct facility-wide conservation impact assessments.
• Seek grants and other funding opportunities to support conservation programs and
activities both on and off-site.
• Maintain records and files related to conservation work and programs.
• Maintain a clean and safe work environment within ZooMontana.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Requirements:
• Must be able to work a flexible schedule. This may include, but is not limited to weekends,
evenings, overnights, and holidays.
• Must be able to work independently while understanding the need for internal and
external communication about work efforts.
• Must be willing to utilize technology including, but not limited to: Microsoft Office
programs, Canva, video editing technology, video conferencing technology, and more.
• Must be able to perform quality work within deadlines with or without direct supervision.
• Maintain a clean driving record for safe operation of zoo vehicles and possess and maintain
a state of Montana driver’s license.
• Must be willing to travel long distances independently or as a team.
• Must have excellent interpretation skills, be comfortable with public speaking, and be able
to improvise when needed.
• Must be able to work with all members of the public.
• Must be able to stand for extended periods of time.
• Must be able to withstand typical outdoor Montana climate

Experience Required

A bachelor’s degree in any natural, environmental or other related biologic science, or the equivalent in experience is preferred. Two or more years of relevant experience in a conservation focused non-profit facility is ideal. Strong public speaking skills and the ability to improvise are a must. Applicant must possess both strong collaboration and individual work skills.
Salary

$37,000

The Horticulturist is a full-time, non-exempt status position, working within the Historic Preservation and Collections Department under the direct supervision of the Curator of Historic Gardens and Landscapes. The Horticulturist supports the overall mission of the Mount Vernon Ladies’ Association and the Department to preserve, care for, and interpret the Association’s historic, cultural, and natural resources. The Horticulturist helps care for the estate’s historic gardens. Responsibilities include planting, pruning, harvesting, applying soil amendments, water management, weed, and pest control.

Expected Hours:
Monday-Friday, 6:30 a.m.-3:00 p.m. Must be available to work occasional weekends, evenings, and holidays.

Essential Functions:

Areas of responsibility include the Botanic Garden, Sundries Field and Slave Cabin Garden, and Grist Mill. The incumbent will collaborate with Historic Trades staff to provide interpretive support for activities at the Farm site and will also assist with projects in the Upper and Lower Gardens, Fruit and Nursery Garden, and the historic and non-historic landscape as needed.
The tasks include daily inspection, planning, planting, harvesting, pruning, applying soil amendments, water management, debris removal, weed and pest control, mulching, and assisting with invasive plant management.
Uses current best practices and responsible stewardship when performing the tasks outlined above.
Work with other team members to identify and control insects, diseases, and weeds. Apply insecticides, fungicides, and herbicides safely and properly, and maintain pesticide records.
Understands basic soil structure and soil health and the relationship to plant health.
Operates and maintains equipment and power tools as needed.
Maintains records of work activities and submits information for monthly reports.
Responsible for staying up-to-date and informed on the latest horticultural practices and pesticides.
Interacts positively with visitors, answering questions and giving directions.
Practices and maintains safety standards and procedures in all work areas and assures others’ work safety as well.
Works independently and with minimum supervision, however, certain tasks require individual to work closely with other horticulture staff in a team setting.
Behaves and communicates in a manner that promotes and fosters a culture of teamwork and cooperation, within the Horticulture department and throughout the Estate, with co-workers, management, and volunteers.
Conducts all work in accordance with the Mount Vernon Ladies’ Association’s procedures and guidelines.
Performs other related duties as requested by immediate supervisor and carries out the completion of special assignments.
This position is classified as essential and the incumbent must be able to participate in ice and snow removal as well as storm damage clean-up as needed.

Qualifications:

A bachelor’s degree in horticulture or a related field of study and a minimum of two years’ work experience in horticulture or a similar field or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
Experience in planting, growing, and harvesting vegetables and field crops.
Knowledgeable in the cultivation practices of native and non-native trees, shrubs, and herbaceous plants, and possess an awareness of environmental practices that enhance local ecosystems. The ability to identify invasive plants and experience with controlling them is a plus.
Ability to implement proper pruning techniques for all types of woody plants.
Experience in operating a variety of equipment, including assorted hand and power tools, chainsaws, electric and diesel gators, tractors, loaders, aerial lifts, and dump trucks is ideal.
A background in Integrated Pest Management (IPM) practices, experience, and knowledge of pesticides, including the proper application of pesticides and possession of or the ability to obtain a Virginia pesticide applicator’s license, is essential for this position.
Detail-oriented with the ability to prioritize, manage multiple tasks, and meet deadlines.
Proficiency in the use of Microsoft Office suite such as Word, Excel and PowerPoint.
Ability to perform strenuous work in a variety of weather conditions, including extreme high and low temperatures.
Work requires frequent walking, standing, bending, stooping, squatting, kneeling, and the ability to navigate uneven terrain.
The incumbent will frequently handle objects weighing up to 30 pounds (occasionally 50 pounds) unassisted. On a regular basis, drag, lift, and carry heavy debris and watering hoses and load or unload heavy items from powered and hand-operated carts.
Must be available to work occasional weekends, holidays, and evenings.
Valid driver’s license.

We are currently hiring one Seasonal Salt Marsh Stewards Coordinator to work with our New York Coastal Resilience program on Long Island, NY. In 2025, Audubon will pilot a NY Salt Marsh Stewards Program. This program will assist conservation scientists with managing and monitoring our salt marsh restoration project locations and provide hands-on conservation experience to students from underserved communities. The Program will enroll 5-10 high school students from Title 1 schools annually each summer to participate in conservation action (habitat restoration, monitoring, and outreach activities). The Coordinator will assist the Senior Manager of Coastal Resilience in managing this Program.

The Coordinator will also be responsible for implementing pre-restoration monitoring (SHARP (Saltmarsh Habitat and Avian Research Program) surveys, habitat, wildlife, and rare plant surveys, and water quality monitoring) and outreach at the salt marsh restoration project sites. The Coordinator will work with other Audubon staff and volunteers to monitor and survey salt marsh habitat at Sunken Meadow State Park (Smithtown, NY), Crab Meadow Marsh (Huntington, NY), and other locations as needed.

This Salt Marsh Stewards Coordinator position is a seasonal, part time position taking place 4 days a week (35 hours/week) for 11 weeks from June through August 2025. Some weekend and holiday work may be required. Travel to and from field sites with a personal vehicle will be reimbursed. The position will be based out of the Theodore Roosevelt Sanctuary & Audubon Center in Oyster Bay, NY. The NY Senior Manager of Coastal Resilience will be the direct supervisor for this position.

Compensation:

$19.00 / hour

Additional Job Description

Essential Functions

Perform pre-restoration monitoring (saltmarsh bird surveys (including Saltmarsh Sparrows, Clapper Rails, American Black Duck, Black Rail), fish and diamondback terrapin surveys, water quality, etc.) and outreach at salt marsh sites

Mentor and guide 5-10 high school students from our Salt Marsh Stewards Program in habitat restoration and monitoring efforts (invasive plant control, planting native plants, remove trash from sensitive areas, fish and terrapin surveys, bird surveys, water quality) and during outreach events

Work with staff and volunteers in pre-restoration monitoring projects

Organize data and track restoration, monitoring, and outreach project/program metrics

Organize pictures, stories, and quotes for applicable newsletters, social media posts, etc. and provide them Communications staff as needed

Maintain monitoring equipment and inventory items

Assist Senior Manager of Coastal Resilience and Director of Coastal Resilience as needed.

Write an end of the season report to document seasonal work.

Maintains and fosters culture of safety.

Qualifications and Experience:

Bachelor’s Degree/Associate’s degree (or significant course towards a degree) in Biology, Ecology, Environmental Science, Conservation, Ornithology, or related subject

Must be comfortable walking long distances, lifting heavy equipment, and working outside in harsh conditions (heat, mud, insects)

Must have experience with field work

Must have experience working with teenagers in the classroom or field setting

Must be comfortable working with groups and giving presentations (formally or informally)

Experience with Microsoft Office software, specifically Word, Excel, PowerPoint. Experience with YSI equipment preferred but not required.

Comfortable driving a large, 15-person passenger van.

Valid driver’s license required and access to a personal vehicle.

Commitment to Audubon’s organizational values of care, collaboration, change, integrity, impact, and innovation.

Experience fostering inclusive and collaborative work environments is valued.

The Cleveland Museum of Natural History, founded in 1920, is located in the heart of University Circle, five miles east of downtown Cleveland, Ohio. For more than a century, the Museum has inspired visitors to connect with the wonders of science and nature. Today, we continue that legacy—and remain committed to sharing our resources to promote a healthy future for both humans and the planet.

As Ohio’s largest natural history museum, we use our vast collections and state-of-the-art facilities to contribute to scientific understanding worldwide. Our scientists conduct research across a variety of disciplines, making groundbreaking discoveries about early human ancestors, ancient Ohio, animal and plant life around the world, and more. We steward more than 12,500 acres of wild habitats through our Natural Areas Program, working to protect the environment of northern Ohio and the diverse species that call it home.

The Museum is seeking a dedicated professional to join our Wildlife team.

Job Summary:

The Wildlife Specialist plays a key role in the daily care, health, and well-being of our diverse wildlife collection. This collection includes a variety of species such as amphibians, reptiles, mammalian carnivores, and birds of prey. This position is responsible for maintaining high standards of animal husbandry, including feeding, cleaning, and monitoring the physical and behavioral health of the animals. The Specialist will also design and implement enrichment activities and training programs to support the animals’ mental and physical stimulation.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities: (Must be able to perform the essential functions of this position with or without reasonable accommodation)

Regularly feed and provide water to animals according to established schedules and feeding instructions
Prepare animal medications, diets, and supplements as prescribed
Monitor animal health and report any concerns or abnormalities; collect and record data on animal size, condition, treatments, and food intake
Design and implement enrichment activities, training routines, and exercise plans to promote animal well-being
Conduct daily upkeep of indoor and outdoor animal enclosures, including ponds, exhibits, and associated equipment
Install, maintain, and repair animal care facility equipment such as lighting, feeding devices, and enclosures
Present live animal programs to the public, providing accurate information about animal behavior, habits, breeding, and facility programs
Train and oversee interns and volunteers involved in animal care
Perform other related duties as assigned

Education/Experience:

Bachelor’s degree in Natural Sciences or a related field and 2-3 years of related experience required; or equivalent combination of education and related experience.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

Knowledge of safety and compliance regulations related to wildlife resources and AZA standards
Proficient in handling and training live animals, preferably native wildlife species
Ability to monitor and maintain the health and well-being of live animal collections
Proficient knowledge of Microsoft Office applications
Ability to communicate effectively both written and verbally
Excellent organizational and problem-solving skills
Ability to work a flexible schedule, including weekends and holidays

Working Conditions:

This position includes working indoors and outdoors in all weather conditions. May require sitting, walking, and standing for prolonged periods of time. Must be able to lift 50lbs, and work at elevated heights through ladders and lifts with or without reasonable accommodation.

This is an exciting opportunity to make a contribution to the conservation of water birds in South Carolina as part of the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR).

Job Duties Include:

Developing, directing and conducting projects for wading and marsh birds including nest monitoring, breeding surveys, trapping and banding, and associated vegetation surveys across South Carolina.
Conducting wading bird aerial breeding season surveys in a small airplane.
Providing public with technical assistance on wading and marsh bird protections, nuisance, and other issues.
Representing the SCDNR on enforcement and permitting issues, and other situations as required.
Developing and maintaining large multi-year databases using Excel, Access, Survey123, Bird banding lab data portal and GIS, and conducting data analysis using Program R.
Developing and managing grants, budgets, and monthly and annual reports.
Developing and disseminating information for public outreach and presenting educational programs to the public and at appropriate meetings.
Coordinating, training and supervising temporary personnel to collect data as needed.
Performing other related duties as assigned by the Bird Conservation Coordinator.

Minimum and Additional Requirements

A master’s degree in biology, chemistry or wildlife management and two (2) years of experience in fish, wildlife or marine management or research programs; or a bachelor’s degree in biology, chemistry, wildlife management or related technical area and four (4) years of experience in fish, wildlife or marine management or research programs.

Preferred Qualifications

Knowledge of wading and marsh biology and southeastern habitat management practices.
Knowledge of federal and state laws and regulatory procedures pertaining to native migratory birds.
Ability to conduct survey and monitoring projects for wading and marsh birds including the ability to identify them by sight and sound, to trap and band, to locate nests, and to use bird, water, and vegetation survey and monitoring tools.
Experience in following field protocols, data collection, and data entry. Experience developing and maintaining large multi-year databases and analyzing data. Familiarity with GIS, Program R, and Microsoft Office including Access.
Ability to efficiently organize information and manage multiple projects.
Ability to prepare monthly and annual reports, create and manage budgets.
Ability to communicate effectively in writing and verbally with peers and public on technical and non-technical subjects. Demonstrated ability to work with multiple stakeholder groups.
Demonstrated ability to work independently, with minimal supervision. Commitment to work collaboratively with co-workers, colleagues, and partners.
Ability to supervise staff effectively.
Ability to endure long hours in adverse environmental conditions including heat and exposure to insects, lift and carry equipment (30 pounds), walk up to four (4) miles carrying a day pack, swim in coastal waters and conduct annual aerial surveys in a small airplane.
Ability to work long, non-standard hours with frequent, sometimes overnight, travel.

The Bruckerhoff Freshwater Community Ecology Lab is hiring a summer research technician to help collect fish, habitat, and water quality data in Ohio streams and rivers. This position requires extensive field sampling of fish and invertebrate communities using a variety of techniques, including backpack electrofishing, seining, PIT tagging, and boat electrofishing. Fish will be identified in the field, so applicants with fish identification experience are required. When not in the field, the incumbent would help with the following: 1) otolith preparation and aging; 2) sample sorting and identification of fish and invertebrates; 3) conducting experiments; 4) data entry; 5) GIS; and 6) data analysis and writing. Opportunities will exist to help with data analysis, manuscript writing, and/or independent research, depending on experience and interest.

Required: Bachelor’s Degree or equivalent experience in biology, ecology, fisheries, or a closely related field. One year of relevant experience required. Applicants must be detail oriented and have the ability to work both as part of a team and independently with minimal supervision. The individual must be able to lift up to 50 pounds and work outside in all weather conditions. This position will require substantial time spent in or near water and handling aquatic organisms. Applicants must be at least 18 years of age and possess a valid driver’s license.

Desired: MS degree or 2 years of relevant experience preferred.

Additional Information:

Successful candidates will join a dynamic, interactive group of technicians, students, post-docs, and faculty at The Ohio State University’s Aquatic Ecology Laboratory (http://ael.osu.edu) within the Department of Evolution, Ecology, and Organismal Biology (http://eeob.osu.edu).

The College of the Arts and Sciences Department of Evolution Ecology and Organismal Biology is seeking a Research Technician. The College of Arts and Sciences is the largest college and the academic heart of the university. The College hosts 81 majors. With 38 departments, 20+ world-class research centers, and more than 2,000 faculty and staff members, students have the unique opportunity to study with the best artists, scholars, and scientists in their field.

The pay range for this job profile is $15.70 – $20.67. The offer for this position will fall within this range based on internal equity, unit’s available budget, and the candidate’s qualifications.

Aquarion Water Company is the public water supply company for more than 750,000 people in 72 cities and towns throughout Connecticut, as well as serving customers in Massachusetts and New Hampshire. It is the largest investor-owned water utility in New England and among the seven largest in the U.S. Based in Bridgeport, CT, it has been in the public water supply business since 1857. Across its operations, Aquarion strives to act as a responsible steward of the environment and to assist the communities it serves in promoting sustainable practices. Aquarion Water Company is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Eversource.

Job Summary

This summer internship position is with Aquarion’s Watershed and Environmental Management Department. The selected candidate(s) will get a chance to learn about and assist the department with some or all of the following areas:

Drinking Water Source Protection,

Natural Resource Management,

Outdoor Recreation Management,

Forest Management,

Environmental Compliance, and

Sustainability Reporting.

Principal Responsibilities

Watershed inspections (Source Protection)

Aquatic Invasive Species Removal (from watercraft)

Sampling of water treatment wastewater and residuals.

Conducting facility compliance inspections

Forestry inventory and boundary marking

Compilation of Sustainability metrics

Computer reporting on field activities using MS Office Suite, ArcGIS, Klir, etc.

Preferred Requirements

The selected candidate(s) will be provided with training to properly conduct many of these tasks independently.

The position requires an individual to hold and maintain a valid State of Connecticut license to operate a motor vehicle and to a minimum 21 years of age.

Company owned vehicles are available for use during field work.

Education/Certifications

Preferred candidates will be seeking or recently received degrees in Forestry, Biology, Ecology, Natural Resources, Environmental Science/Engineering or a related field.

Salary

This is a temporary full-time position. The internship typically runs from mid- to late May until the end of August, Monday through Friday, forty hours a week.

Days and Hours are Monday through Friday (7:00AM to 3:30PM)

Salary will be $18.00/hour

Successful Candidates will be based in Fairfield County

Founded in 1891 by a group of visionary volunteers, The Trustees of Reservations (The Trustees) is the nation’s premier conservation and preservation organization. The Trustees’ preserves, for public use and enjoyment, properties of exceptional scenic, historic, and ecological value in Massachusetts. Our properties are open to all, and we thrive by involving as many people as possible in all that we do.

Posting Information:

Salary: $22/hour

Hours per week: 40

Job Classification: Full-time, non-exempt

Job Type: Onsite

Location: Stevens-Coolidge House & Gardens, North Andover and The Crane Estate, Ipswich, MA

What You’ll Do:

Your Impact:

As a Horticulture Assistant, you’ll have the unique opportunity to contribute to two historic public gardens on the North Shore, each with their own distinct character. While at Stevens-Coolidge House & Gardens, you may find yourself harvesting heirloom vegetables from the walled potager garden or weeding beautiful new entry gardens. At The Crane Estate, you may be training clematis along the walled Formal Garden or working with perennials in the garden border. With a striking variety of gardens to look after, every day will bring something exciting and different! You will contribute to the Trustees’ mission by painstakingly caring for these historic and beloved public gardens and inspiring their next generation of admirers.

Stevens-Coolidge House and Gardens is a historic 91-acre property with gardens including a potager garden, formal cutting garden, Italianate rose garden, perennial garden, orchard, meadows and the newly created Entry Garden composed of a mix of introduced and native pollinator friendly plantings, the greenhouse complex, and nursery.

The Crane Estate is a 2,000-acre Country Place Era estate with a historic mansion and complimentary gardens built between 1909 and 1928. Cultivated gardens surround the mansion, garden beds surround an inn located on the property and, in addition, there is a greenhouse, a cutting garden and a holding area.

The Role:

As Horticulture Assistant, you will conduct horticultural tasks in garden areas on the properties, greenhouse complex, and landscapes. You’ll work side by side with the site Horticulturist for these spaces, as well as with volunteers and other property staff. This position is a full-time role suited to a skilled professional gardener with an energetic, positive personality and strong work ethic. You will share your time between Stevens-Coolidge in North Andover and The Crane Estate in Ipswich and will report to each on-site Horticulturist. You will bring your professional fine-gardening skill and experience, passion for plants, attention to detail, and a positive, collaborative nature. You will work independently and as part of a team.

Specifically, you’ll:

Employ your hands-on horticultural skills and technical expertise toward the care and maintenance of plantings in the gardens. Tasks include planting, pruning, weeding, dividing, deadheading, staking, tying and training, mulching, raking, and edging.

Assist the Horticulturist with plant labeling and documentation

Assist with all aspects of greenhouse care including potting up, pinching, pest management, and watering

Assist with supplemental watering in the gardens

Ensure that all equipment is in good working order through preventative maintenance

Support volunteer sessions and positively motivate volunteers

Engage with the public in an open and positive manner

Other duties as assigned, with or without accommodation

This is a full-time, nonexempt position [40 hours per week] reporting directly to the Horticulturalists.
Requirements

What You’ll Need:

Skills and Experience:

Required:
Two or more years of formal education in Horticulture, Landscape Architecture or a closely related field of study
One to three years of hands-on experience as a professional fine gardener.
Proficient using hand tools for horticultural tasks such as pruners, soil knives, edgers, loppers, shovels, rakes etc.
Knowledge of Integrated Pest Management (IPM) practices in the care and maintenance of annuals and perennials
Experienced in the pruning of shrubs and small trees
Competent in identifying ornamental plants, weeds and invasive plants
Familiar with pests and diseases of ornamental landscape plants
Able to use power equipment for garden care such as mowers, blowers, and string trimmers
Strong communication skills
Willing and able to work in variable outdoor weather conditions
Ability to lift 40 pounds required

Preferred:
Experience supervising staff, interns, and/or volunteers preferred
Pesticide Applicator’s License preferred
Experience in the public garden field preferred.

Eligibility Criteria:

Current authorization to work in the United States – a candidate must have such authorization by his or her first day of employment.

A valid driver’s license, as well as a satisfactory driving record as outlined in The Trustees’ driving policy.
This role will driving vehicles over 10k pounds.

A satisfactory criminal background (CORI) check.

The Horticulturist is responsible for performing skilled gardening and landscape work and is involved with the operation of the greenhouse/propagation. Work is performed under the general supervision of the Botanical Gardens Manager and/or the Horticulture Specialist, with moderate latitude for independent judgment and action. Annual performance goals will be set for the Horticulturist.

Hiring Salary Range: $48,155.65 – $57,978.01

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS (with illustrative examples of work)

Maintain comprehensive program for the collection of plants and subsequent installation and maintenance of planted areas:

Provide daily care for indoor and outdoor plants and planted areas which may include conducting soil tests, fertilizing, watering, pulling weeds, removing faded and/or dead leaves/flowers, pruning dead limbs/branches, mulching, and edging.
Prepare garden beds for plantings, including amending soils, mulching, edging, planting bulbs, flowers, shrubs, and trees.
Ability to develop and maintain specific plant collections based on color schemes, families, forms, ecology, etc.
Plan and coordinate annual large scale plant installations and removals.
Identify horticultural needs and problems and initiate or recommend appropriate action.
Identify plants by common and scientific names.
Mix, maintain, and apply horticultural chemicals including fertilizers, pesticides, and herbicides; prepare and maintain appropriate records.
Use and maintain appropriate safety equipment.
Use variety of gas and electric equipment such as mowers, blowers, string trimmers, hedge trimmers, pole saws, dump trucks, and front-end loaders to perform various landscaping work.
Make minor repairs and/or adjustments to equipment.
Perform manual labor as required in all weather conditions.
Assist in care and maintenance of turf, forested, and other non-landscaped areas.
Identify, locate, and purchase plant materials consistent with the master plan and new collection development.
Ensure proper maintenance of planted landscaped and garden areas and assist with coordination of maintenance of grounds with Maintenance Supervisor.
Install and maintain micro drip and standard irrigation system.
Monitor and remove invasive plant species as needed or directed.

Assist with Garden-wide Special Events:

Work with the staff to help install seasonal light show to include winter decor.
Provide horticultural and staff support for special functions at the Korean Bell Garden.
Assist with large public events such as concerts, plant sales, and children’s events.

Supervise staff including seasonal employees and volunteers:

Promote high levels of work performance and employee morale.
Analyze and assist in the resolution of seasonal employee work issues.
Determine workload, assign priorities, schedule employees, and allocate resources for part-time/seasonal Garden Specialist staff and volunteers.
Instruct and train employees in proper landscape and gardening procedures consistent with botanical garden standards.
Inspect completed work for conformance to standards.
Enforce safety standards with all employees and the visiting public.

Perform administrative duties:

Maintain records of accessions, plant growth, chemical use, work schedules, weather conditions, and related topics.
Interview and hire applicants for part-time employment with the Botanical Gardens Manager and Horticulture Specialist.
Recruit, train, and supervise volunteers for your specific areas of responsibility.
Assist with ordering supplies and tools.

Assist with management of facility operations and maintenance:

Recommend staffing, maintenance, and development items for budget.
Assist in the implementation of the operating budget.
Monitor operation to ensure customer satisfaction.
Inspect facilities for adherence to NOVA Parks standards.
Operate facilities and fill in at all positions as needed.
Apply and interpret safety standards to ensure compliance.
Ensure security of park facilities and assets.
Identify maintenance problems and hazards.
Operate various pieces of maintenance equipment as needed and perform related work including manual labor.

Maintain and provide technical knowledge:

Provide information to the public on plant materials, horticultural practices, plant conservation, and landscape topics.
Keep up to date on horticulture and public garden standards and changes.
Advise Park management personnel on horticultural problems.
Conduct regular educational and interpretive programs in cooperation with the Recreation Program Manager.
Implement curricula and guidelines for interpretive tours, programs, classes, exhibits, and demonstrations.
Provide information as requested by the public on such subjects as plants, gardening, herbicides, and pesticides.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS (minimum)

Education: Graduation from an accredited degree program with a four-year degree preferred (two-year Associate degree required) in Horticulture, Botany or closely related field.

Physical: Non-manual and manual work with strength and dexterity necessary to perform all required tasks, including lifting, stooping, bending, and working in tiring and uncomfortable positions in outdoor settings; will perform heavy manual work in all weather conditions, lift items at or greater than 80 pounds, climb ladders, use hand tools, and operate equipment.

Experience: Three years of experience in a horticulture or public garden setting, or any equivalent combination of education, training, or experience which provides:

Considerable knowledge of plant materials with ability to identify and properly utilize.
Knowledge of interior and exterior plant scaping.
Knowledge of greenhouse operations and maintenance practices.
Knowledge of micro drip and standard irrigation systems.
Knowledge and experience in the supervision of seasonal employees.
Knowledge of materials and equipment used in horticulture and landscape maintenance.
Knowledge of computers with the ability to use a variety of software.
Considerable ability to communicate clearly and effectively with ability to prepare and present accurate reports.
Ability to maintain knowledge of current trends and developments in landscape architecture, horticulture, and public garden management.
Ability to identify and isolate problems or needs and initiate appropriate solutions.
Ability to read and understand landscape plans and other technical documents.
Considerable knowledge of potential hazards and safety precautions involved.
Ability to operate landscape equipment and make minor repairs and adjustments.
Ability to perform manual labor in unusual weather conditions.
Ability to prepare and maintain accurate records and reports.
Ability to interpret and explain NOVA Parks’ policies, rules, and procedures.
Ability to deal effectively with the general public, private vendors, and other employees.
Possession of or ability to obtain special licenses as required; must obtain a Virginia pesticide certification within six months.
Possession of or ability to obtain a driver’s license; must maintain license with safe driving record.
Availability for call in emergency situations, and to work shifts and weekends.
Certification or ability to obtain certification in CPR/first aid, and other licenses/permits as required.
Regular and predictable attendance is an essential function of the position.