Horticulturist

Job Description

The Garden Horticulturist is responsible for implementing effective horticultural techniques, e.g., planting, pruning, and weed control in all assigned areas. Knowledge of plants, their cultural requirements as well as the design principles used in the Winterthur Garden and Estate is expected. They will assist in the curatorial duties of plant identification, plant selection, and documentation of design intent and also assist with plant records (documenting plant additions/deletions), labeling and yearly inventory. They will manage horticulture interns and volunteers in their areas and work with teams as needed in the Winterthur Garden and Estate. This position is responsible for ensuring all work is conducted in a manner fostering Winterthur aesthetic/environmental stewardship initiatives. The Horticulturist is considered essential personnel and will help with weather emergencies i.e. snow removal, hurricane cleanup as requested as well as work 2-3 rotating weekends a year. They will participate in Winterthur events and outreach programs such as leading tours.

About Us

Winterthur Museum, Garden & Library encompasses an unrivaled museum of American decorative arts in its mansion and galleries and a magnificent 60-acre naturalistic garden—all set on 1,000 gorgeous acres.

Winterthur employs a wide array of positions in the areas of curatorial, horticulture, education, conservation, library, maintenance, marketing, development, technology, and administration.

Winterthur offers a unique and rewarding experience that is rich in culture and natural beauty. Winterthur considers its employees and volunteers to be among its greatest assets and welcomes applications from candidates who will contribute their specific skills to its mission “to inspire, enlighten, and delight all of its visitors while preserving and enhancing [Winterthur]” and also uphold its core values of agility, excellence, innovation, integrity, inclusion, and transparency.

Duties & Responsibilities

Garden Section Management: Performs all horticultural tasks, such as pruning, mowing, mulching and weeding/weed control for health and aesthetics of the area. Scope of work performed on woody shrubs, turf and herbaceous plants. Specific duties as they relate to a particular garden area, such as water feature maintenance or timely work in an event location. Daily/weekly path clearing maintenance including snow removal. Periodic site maintenance such as cleaning benches and signs. Work performed both individually and within a team and/or within the department. Basic knowledge of area irrigation system.
Design Aesthetic: Collaborate with management to discern and document the design intent of garden areas and prepare maintenance plans to preserve that design intent. Work to enhance the plant collection and seasons of interest within the concepts of the design intent of the area. Conduct all horticulture activities in an environmentally responsible manner.
Documentation: Participate in team/departmental planning and garden documentation. Document all garden changes using Landscape Modification Forms. Assist in yearly mapping and plant record updates. E-mail correspondence within/outside of institution.
Programming/Events: Create and present lectures, demonstrations and provide tours for Winterthur guests and other institutions. Participation in Garden/Winterthur events. Can occur outside of normal working hours.
Assisting other departments with Horticulture related inquiries as needed
Requirements

Education and Experience

Minimum Experience:
High School Diploma with 6 years horticulture-related experience.

Preferred Experience:
Bachelor’s degree in Horticulture or related field with 2 years of experience in a horticulture- related field. Experience in public horticulture is a plus.

Knowledge/Skills:
1. Strong working knowledge of plants and horticulture practices with desire for continued education and collaboration with other institutions.
2. Ability to express ideas clearly, orally and in writing; good interpersonal skills.
3. Working knowledge of Microsoft systems.

Essential Functions:
1. Ability to work with manual shift vehicles/various large and small power equipment-mower, backpack blower, weed eater, bobcat-and to stand, kneel, and bend for long periods of time.
2.Able to traverse uneven ground/inclines.
3. Work outdoors in all temperatures/conditions.
4. Exposure to biting insects, poison ivy, herbicides and fertilizers.
5. Must possess and maintain a valid driver’s license in order to operate Winterthur vehicles.

Additional Information

Compensation: $19.72; commensurate with experience.

Benefits: Including, but not limited to, medical, dental, and vision insurance; generous paid time off plan including 10 holidays, vacation, personal, and sick time; 403b with employer match for eligible employees; discounts in the museum store and cafe; free general admission for you and your immediate family

Work Schedule: 7:00-2:30, M-F, some weekends and later times

Application Instructions

Qualified applicants are encouraged to apply by following the link provided here: https://www.winterthur.org/join-our-team/