Arboretum Program Manager: Lead Campus Landscape & Trees

Illinois-Institute-of-Technolog; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 90,000 - 95,000; Full time

Job summary

Illinois Institute of Technology in Chicago invites applications for Arboretum Program Manager. This role provides leadership for the Alphawood Arboretum on campus, stewarding a diverse tree and landscape portfolio and coordinating educational and community activities.

You will manage projects, safety, budget, and collaboration with faculty, students, and external partners; a drive for sustainability and campus engagement is essential; ISA Arborist credential preferred or obtainable.

Qualifications

• Arborist credential or ability to obtain within a set period after hire.
• Experience with tree care, arboriculture, landscape management, or related area.
• Ability to identify tree and plant species in the field.
• Knowledge of tree care practices: pruning, preservation, safety, disease management.
• Strong organizational, project management, and communication skills.
• Ability to work independently while collaborating with University partners.
• Valid driver’s license.

Responsibilities

• Provide leadership and stewardship for Alphawood Arboretum and support its ongoing development as a university/resource.
• Oversee tree care, condition assessment, maintenance, and safety of the tree portfolio.
• Develop and implement proactive tree and landscape management practices.
• Plan and manage arboretum and landscape projects, including scope, vendors, schedules, and documentation.
• Maintain accurate records using information systems.
• Develop educational programs, events, and interpretive materials.
• Collaborate with faculty, students, and external partners to support educational activities.

Skills

Arboriculture knowledge

Project management

Team leadership

Communication

Safety compliance

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Forestry, Arboriculture, Natural Resource Management, Horticulture, Landscape Management, or related field

ISA Certified Arborist credential

High school diploma or GED

Tools

GIS

Tree inventory systems

Computer-aided design (CAD)

Job description

Illinois Institute of Technology in Chicago invites applications for Arboretum Program Manager. This role provides leadership for the Alphawood Arboretum on campus, stewarding a diverse tree and landscape portfolio and coordinating educational and community activities.

You will manage projects, safety, budget, and collaboration with faculty, students, and external partners; a drive for sustainability and campus engagement is essential; ISA Arborist credential preferred or obtainable.