Chief Curator: Horticulture, Grounds & Environmental Services

PEORIA PARK DISTRICT; Keller (IL); On-site; USD 85,000 - 110,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Paid sick days

Vacation days and holidays

Longevity and wellness programs

Pension and retirement programs

Health plan

Life Insurance

Disability Insurance

Free admission to select facilities

Equal opportunity employer

Job summary

Peoria Park District seeks a Curator of Horticulture, Grounds, and Environmental Services to lead the design, planning, and maintenance of the Peoria Zoo and Luthy Botanical Gardens. The role directs multiple departments, manages budgets, and drives horticultural programs with a focus on safety and conservation.

The ideal candidate has 5+ years in landscape maintenance and supervisory experience, with deep IPM knowledge and strong collaboration skills to engage staff, volunteers, and the

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Horticulture or related field; Master’s preferred.
• Minimum five years in landscape maintenance, greenhouse management, and landscape design.
• Three years of supervisory experience including personnel and facility management.
• Strong knowledge of IPM and pesticide safety.
• Excellent communication and collaboration with staff and volunteers.

Responsibilities

• Direct design, planning, construction, and maintenance of garden and zoo facilities.
• Manage budgets and long-range plans for horticulture.
• Supervise horticulture, custodial departments, and contractors.
• Plan and install plant displays; oversee IPM and chemical applications.
• Coordinate events, tours, and educational programs.
• Maintain plant records in botanical software and garden interpretation.

Skills

Supervisory experience

Budgeting knowledge

IPM knowledge

Plant identification

Communication skills

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Horticulture or related field

Master’s degree preferred

Tools

ZIM's Botanical program

Job description

Peoria Park District seeks a Curator of Horticulture, Grounds, and Environmental Services to lead the design, planning, and maintenance of the Peoria Zoo and Luthy Botanical Gardens. The role directs multiple departments, manages budgets, and drives horticultural programs with a focus on safety and conservation.

The ideal candidate has 5+ years in landscape maintenance and supervisory experience, with deep IPM knowledge and strong collaboration skills to engage staff, volunteers, and the