Browse Horticulturist - Part Time - San Diego Zoo

San Diego Zoo Safari Park; San Diego (CA); On-site; USD 52,000 - 76,000; Full time

Job summary

San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance is seeking a Horticulturist to join the Browse department, focusing on plant cultivation, soil management, and daily grounds maintenance at the Zoo and Safari Park. You will support animal browse delivery and off-site sites, requiring strong time management and communication skills.

The role entails maintaining plant health, implementing IPM, and documenting activities. A degree in horticulture or related field is preferred, with a California driver’s license upon

Qualifications

• A.A. in horticulture, botany, plant science, or related degree preferred.
• Valid California Driver’s License Upon Hire required.

Responsibilities

• Plant, transplant and care for flora based on seasonal and environmental needs.
• Monitor plant growth and health; identify disorders.
• Apply fertilization, mulching and irrigation to optimize development.
• Prune, trim and shape plants for healthy growth and aesthetics.
• Operate and maintain horticultural equipment and ensure tools are kept clean and sharp.
• Follow safety trainings and communicate with stakeholders.

Skills

Plant material knowledge

Soil science

Fertilizers and insecticides

Tree maintenance

Watering techniques

Record keeping

Safety procedures

Communication

Education

A.A. in horticulture or related degree

Job description

HOW YOU WILL IMPACT OUR MISSION

The Horticulturist performs all job assignments with a positive attitude that supports San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance's mission and vision of saving species worldwide by uniting our expertise in wildlife care and conservation science with our dedication to inspiring passion for nature. The Horticulturist under direction, performs routine horticultural, grounds maintenance, and tree related work of assigned area; develops new area when necessary. This position reports to a Lead/Supervisor.This class is distinguished from the next higher class, Senior Horticulturist, in that the Senior Horticulturist works under minimal supervision and its duties require more horticultural skills and knowledge. The Horticulturist class performs a wide range of standard duties under general supervision at the Zoo or Safari Park.

WHAT YOU WILL DO

Plant Cultivation and Care:

• Plant and transplant various types of flora based on seasonal and environmental requirements.
• Monitor plant growth and health, identifying biotic and abiotic disorders.
• Implement appropriate fertilization, mulching and irrigation methods to ensure optimal plant development.
• Prune, trim, and shape plants to encourage healthy growth and maintain desired aesthetics.

Equipment Management and Safety:

• Complete and adhere to required safety trainings
• Effective communication with internal and external stakeholders
• Operate and maintain horticultural equipment, such as lawnmowers, tractors, trimmers, and irrigation systems.
• Ensure tools are cleaned, sharpened, and stored properly to prolong their lifespan.
• Ensure vehicles are operated and maintained in alignment with Vehicle Code and Garage maintenance expectations.

Soil Management and Improvement:

• Conduct soil analysis to determine nutrient content, pH levels, and drainage capabilities.
• Implement soil improvement strategies, such as composting, mulching, and aeration.
• Recommend soil amendments and apply them as needed to optimize plant growth.

Pest and Disease Control:

• Monitor for pests and diseases, identifying early signs of infestation or infection.
• Implement integrated pest management (IPM) techniques to minimize the use of chemical pesticides.
• Apply appropriate pesticides or biological controls when necessary, following safety protocols and regulations.

Environmental Conservation and Sustainability:

• Promote environmentally friendly practices, such as water conservation, composting, and native plant preservation.
• Educate staff, visitors, or clients on sustainable gardening techniques and the importance of biodiversity.

Research, Record Keeping and Documentation:

• Maintain detailed records of planting schedules, maintenance activities, and plant health assessments.
• Create reports for management or clients on garden status, performance, and recommended improvements.

WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR

This Horticulturist position will be a member of the Browse department. Under general supervision, the Horticulturist will perform job duties including the maintenance of SDZWA farm sites and delivery of browse to Zoo animals. Travel to alternate off-site browse areas will be required. These reporting sites will vary from Zoo to Safari Park and the different Browse Farm sites. Maintenance, harvest, and delivery of browse material from off-site areas will require effective time management, record keeping, and communication skills, both written and verbal.

JOB EXPERIENCE

Prior commercial plant care/landscape experiencepreferred

EDUCATION AND CERTIFICATIONS

A.A. in horticulture, botany, plant science, or other related degree preferred.Valid California Driver’s License Upon Hire required

SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE

A variety of plants, plant materials and growth principlesHorticultural soil conditions and preparationsMethods and precautions for applying fertilizers and insecticidesWorking knowledge of tree removal and maintenance practicesProper watering techniquesWork safety practicesEffective customer relations skills

Ability to:

Troubleshoot basic irrigation problemsManage soils, substrates, plants and amendments in a professional landscapeKeep accurate recordsResearch plants to provide special collections careUse a variety of industry tools safely and effectivelyCommunicate and work effectively with othersOperate power machinery as required