Specialist Horticulturist for Children’s Garden

Job Description

The Specialist Horticulturist is responsible for performing all aspects of garden and land management in the brand-new children’s garden to a high standard of ecological horticultural excellence under the direction of a Horticulture Manager. In this position, the employee is responsible for management and design of gardens equivalent to one acre. They will work closely with the education department to make sure the plants support the programs. They will have to be flexible and not mind working in an area of energetic children. Problem-solving skills needed due to this being a high-use area. They will need to work cooperatively with other Horticulture team members. The Specialist Horticulturist is expected to work 40 hours per week in a schedule that may include a weekend day and participate in other duties assigned including, but not limited to: snow removal, festivals and event staffing, special projects, overtime work as needed.

About Us

Lauritzen Gardens is a living museum of unique four-season plant displays, maintained to the highest standards consistent with environmental stewardship. It provides memorable educational and aesthetic experiences for all. If you feel passionate about the importance of people making connections with plants and the value of Lauritzen Gardens to the community, then we may have an opportunity for you. Lauritzen Gardens is a nonprofit, Equal Opportunity Employer that welcomes dynamic and energetic professionals to join its team.

Duties & Responsibilities

This is a hands-on job, and the candidate must be able to lift 40 pounds with or without accommodation safely, stand, squat, kneel 8 hours a day, and work safely in extreme environmental conditions.

Must be willing to use fertilizers, insecticides, fungicides and herbicides with the label stated safety precautions and attain an applicator’s license within 12 months of start date.

Operates small engine equipment safely. (golf cart, weed-eater, blower, edger, etc.).

Cleans, and uses hand tools and equipment responsibly.

Display commitment to excellence and a keen eye for garden detail.

Have the ability to apply best horticultural practices for plant health and display aesthetics.

Strong organizational, analytical, and computer skills for research, recordkeeping, and problem-solving.

Daily interaction with staff, volunteers, visitors, and management.

Excellent verbal and written communication and interpersonal skills; ability to communicate
maintenance and horticultural needs in a courteous and effective manner.

Have the ability to work collaboratively as part of a team.

Be able to understand and interpret instructions to work effectively and efficiently with minimal supervision.

Be able to supervise a diverse staff and volunteer group(s).

Education and Experience

7 years of horticultural experience

An Associates or Bachelor’s Degree in Education, Life Science, or Design

Valid driver’s license

In-depth understanding and knowledge of plant culture and best management practices to manage the plant collection(s) and environment(s) under their care to the highest standards

Plant identification and design preferred

Applicant must possess excellent soft skills such as active listening, flexibility, creativity, dependably, and empathy

Pet and disease identification and IMP management

Must have organizational, multi-tasking, and year-ahead planning skills

Be comfortable supervising horticulturists, volunteers, and interns of all ages and abilities on a daily basis

Additional Information

Benefits:
401(k)
401(k) matching
Dental insurance
Employee assistance program
Employee discount
Health insurance
Health savings account
Life insurance
Paid time off
Parental leave
Vision insurance

Schedule:
Day Shift
Monday-Friday
Weekends as Needed

Application Instructions

If you are interested, please submit your resume to Shawna Knoop at s.knoop@omahabotanicalgardens.org.