Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens offers world-class horticulture, art & nature-based exhibitions and educational programs. The 13-acre indoor and outdoor facility—situated two miles from downtown Columbus—features glasshouses including the historic John F. Wolfe Palm House; botanical gardens including the Scotts Miracle-Gro Foundation Children’s Garden and Scotts Miracle Gro-Foundation Community Garden Campus; and event venues.
JOB SUMMARY
The Conservatory Manager is a key member of the Horticulture team and is responsible for: the care, health, and long-term stewardship of the Conservatory’s interior living plant collections, the leadership, training, mentorship, and development of horticulture staff, and the operation of the Conservatory’s climate control systems. This role ensures best horticultural practices are consistently applied, oversees daily growing conditions including temperature, humidity, light, and ventilation, and works closely with engineering staff to maintain safe and reliable operations. The Manager also manages and/or assists with North Star Master Plan projects and initiatives as assigned.
The Conservatory Manager collaborates with the Production Greenhouse Manager and plant collections team to coordinate plant production in support of the Conservatory’s interior collections, including propagation planning, space assignments, acclimation processes, and integrated pest management practices. In partnership with the Associate Director of Horticulture and other department managers, this role leads horticultural project planning, supports cross-departmental coordination, and fosters staff training, mentorship, and team building while upholding the mission and values of Franklin Park Conservatory.
Additional Information: This is a full-time exempt position based in Columbus, Ohio.
This position is eligible for the Conservatory’s benefit package offered to full-time employees, which includes medical, dental and vision insurance, company paid Life/AD&D/Short-Term and Long-Term Disability insurance, participation in the Ohio Public Employees Retirement Program (OPERS), optional 457(b) Deferred Compensation plan, generous Paid Time Off (PTO), and complimentary membership to the Conservatory.
Compensation: $56,000 – $59,000 annual salary.
CREDENTIALS AND EXPERIENCE REQUIRED
Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in horticulture, plant science, greenhouse management, or a closely related field, or an equivalent combination of education and professional experience.
Minimum of 5 years of experience in horticulture, conservatory, or greenhouse operations, preferably within a public garden, botanical garden, museum, zoo, or similar visitor-focused institution.
Demonstrated experience managing and caring for diverse living plant collections, including tropical or controlled-environment collections.
Proven knowledge of plant health care practices, including integrated pest management, fertilization, pruning, and disease identification.
Hands-on experience with conservatory or greenhouse climate control systems, including temperature, humidity, lighting, and ventilation.
Supervisory experience leading horticulture staff, interns, and volunteers, with a strong emphasis on staff training, mentorship, and team development.
Experience with project planning, scheduling, and coordination across departments, including collaboration with production greenhouse, facilities, and operations teams.
Familiarity with plant records, accessioning, labeling, and collection management systems.
Valid Ohio Certified Pesticide Applicator’s License.
Valid Forklift Certification.
Valid Driver’s License with the ability to provide own transportation to and from work sites if needed.
Ability and willingness to work flexible hours including evenings, weekends, holidays and special events as needed.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES
Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to clearly convey information to staff, volunteers, leadership, and external partners.
Proficiency in the use of basic computer software, including Microsoft Word, Excel, and other standard office applications.
Experience with Iris BG plant collections database system is a plus.
Demonstrated ability to develop, implement, and communicate effective plant maintenance and care strategies that support high standards of plant health and presentation.
Strong organizational, time management, and project management skills, with attention to detail and the ability to work independently while managing multiple priorities, problem solving, meeting deadlines, delegating responsibilities, and adapting to changing priorities.
Ability to build and maintain professional, service-oriented relationships with staff, volunteers, vendors, donors, and board members.
Proven leadership skills with the ability to motivate others, foster teamwork, and promote a collaborative and inclusive work environment.
Ability to translate technical horticultural concepts into clear, practical guidance for team members with varying levels of experience.
Demonstrated ability to manage horticultural displays and collections to ensure exceptional plant health, aesthetic quality, and public presentation.
Working knowledge of budgeting principles, with the ability to manage resources responsibly and support departmental financial goals.
Ability to support staff growth and development through collaboration, mentorship, and career path support.
Physical ability to frequently lift, carry, or move materials weighing up to 50 pounds, with or without reasonable accommodation.
Ability and willingness to perform hands-on horticultural work in a variety of environmental conditions, including indoor and outdoor settings with exposure to heat, humidity, cold, wind, and rain.
Commitment to supporting and advancing the mission, values, and public-facing goals of Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens.