Hybrid Display Horticulturist bei Pittsburgh Botanic Garden

Description

As part of the Garden’s growing team, we seek a Display Horticulturist who will ensure that Pittsburgh Botanic Garden conforms to the highest standards of garden management practices while attending to the Garden’s living plant collections and horticultural displays. The Display Horticulturist plays a key role in the appearance of the Garden through their technical skills and creativity, the quality of the horticultural exhibits, and the use of best practices for collections management. This individual will bring a high level of horticultural knowledge and professional gardening talent to the Garden, implement best stewardship practices, and lead interns and volunteers in exceptional standards for garden maintenance.  This position reports to the Horticulture Manager and works closely with other Garden staff members. 

Essential Job Functions

· Assist in creating horticultural displays and in the care of the Garden’s living collections. 

· Perform general garden maintenance such as pruning, planting, mulching, and weeding of the permanent and seasonal plantings 

· Motivate and lead by example seasonal staff, interns, and volunteers in the maintenance of gardens and landscapes, including record keeping and proper plant identification.

· Monitor pests and diseases using Integrated Pest Management (IPM) approach, apply appropriate pesticides, herbicides, and fertilizers as needed.

· Assist with special events and other non-horticultural projects that support the garden’s mission and development.

· Perform special studies, projects, and assignments as requested.

· Operate equipment such as hand tools, utility vehicles, and tractors, as well as standard garden power tools such as blowers, tillers, and chainsaws.

· Duties will include snow and ice removal. 

Requirements

· Four-year degree in horticulture or related field, or equivalent combination of training, skills, and experience

· At least three years of experience in the field of horticulture; botanic garden experience preferred 

· Knowledge and/or experience in the following areas: common ornamental landscape plants of USDA zone 5&6, arboriculture, PA native plants, and container displays 

· Demonstrated skills in creative problem-solving and conflict management 

· Strength in oral and written communication and the ability to manage multiple tasks

· A passionate commitment to the mission and purpose of the Garden

· Proficient with equipment used in the horticultural trade, including larger equipment e.g., tractors, tillers, aerators 

· Must be willing to obtain required background checks (Child Abuse Clearance; PA State Police Background Check; Fingerprint Background Check)

· Must possess a valid PA driver’s license and have or be willing to obtain a Pesticide Applicator’s license

Work Conditions

· Primarily outdoor physical work in all weather conditions with occasional work at special events

· Typically, this is a 40-hour workweek position with weekend shifts on rotation. Flexible hours will be required for Garden related functions

· Must be able to traverse moderate to difficult site conditions related to Garden topography 

· Ability to stand, kneel, or bend for extended periods and lift 50 pounds

· Exposure to biting/stinging insects, poisonous plants, petroleum products, and horticultural chemicals

· Cell phones and ear buds/headphones may not be used during work hours unless for emergencies or work purposes; this includes taking photos and listening to podcasts/music.