Arboretum Curator

The Curator leads the stewardship, development, and interpretation of the City of Aiken’s arboretum collections, ensuring exceptional horticultural and arboricultural standards. This role combines strategic planning with hands-on care to preserve plant health, enhance biodiversity, and elevate visitor experience. The Curator collaborates with staff, partners, and the community to design engaging landscapes, support educational programming, and advance the Arboretum’s reputation as a premier destination for science, conservation, and public enjoyment.
Examples of Duties

Oversee the care, maintenance, and long-term health of trees and plant collections across the Arboretum, including Hopelands Gardens and Rye Patch
Conduct regular inventories and condition assessments to protect collections from damage, pests, and disease
Research, source, and establish new plant material to enhance the diversity and value of the collections
Ensure accurate and comprehensive plant labelling and maintain detailed records with the collections database
Coordinate and conduct periodic verification of plant collections
Design and implement innovative plantings and seasonal displays that align with the City’s vision of integrating science, education, and visitor engagement
Contribute to the Arboretum’s development as a top-tier destination through thoughtful horticultural design and planning
Develop plans for improvements to infrastructure, landscapes, and visitor services
Collaborate with City staff and design consultants to develop and deliver interpretation of the Arboretum’s collections
Provide guided tours for diverse audiences, including students, community groups, and visitors
Deliver lectures and presentations to civic organizations and other stakeholders
Work closely with the Friends of Hopelands Gardens and Rye Patch to support and deliver programs and initiatives
Collaborate with internal departments and external partners to enhance the Arboretum’s visibility and impact
Represent the Arboretum at professional meetings, conferences, and through partnerships with other arboreta and relevant organizations
Support the planning and oversight of the Arboretum’s annual operating budget in collaboration with the Buildings & Grounds Administrator
Coordinate with the Buildings & Grounds Administrator to plan, prioritize, and oversee horticulture staff work schedules in alignment with strategic objectives
Support fundraising efforts by developing proposals and engaging with current and prospective donors

Minimum Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in horticulture, botany, environmental science, forestry, biology, or other relevant field from an accredited college or university; or any combination of education and experience which provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities
Demonstrated experience working in a collections-based public garden or arboretum, including the design and development of horticultural features
Strong knowledge of plant identification, classification systems, and best practices in horticulture and garden management
Understanding of health and safety standards
Knowledgeable in the safe use of pesticides
Experience developing written materials for general audiences, including educational resources, or public communications
Ability to support fundraising efforts
Experience teaching or delivering horticultural or botanical education programs to a range of audiences
Valid driver’s license

Preferred Qualifications:

ISA Certified Arborist
Valid South Carolina Pesticide Applicators License

Tagged as: Conservation