Display Horticulturalist

phippsconservatory; Pittsburgh (Allegheny County); On-site; USD 42,000 - 64,000; Full time

Job summary

Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens is seeking a Display Horticulturist to deliver engaging horticultural experiences through expert plant care and sustainable practices. This role oversees display rooms and supports other areas as needed.

The position requires strong IPM knowledge, excellent communication, and the ability to lead seasonal shows while collaborating with interns and volunteers.

Qualifications

• Minimum BA/BS in plant sciences; horticulture degree preferred.
• At least two years of professional plant care experience.
• Ability to acquire PA pesticide license within six months.

Responsibilities

• Care for display rooms and gardens with watering, pruning, and IPM.
• Lead seasonal flower shows; supervise volunteers and staff.
• Monitor plant health; diagnose issues and coordinate with IPM specialist.
• Occasionally write articles, give tours, teach classes or assist events.
• Collaborate with interns for about 3 months.

Skills

Plant care

IPM knowledge

Excellent communication

Organization

Plant research

Problem solving

Independence

Customer relations

Computer skills

Education

Bachelor's degree in plant sciences

Four-year horticulture degree preferred

PA pesticide applicator license within six months

Tools

IRIS software

Argus software

Internet

Job description

Display Horticulturist

DEPARTMENT: Horticulture

REPORTS TO: Horticulture Collections Manager

GENERAL SUMMARY

The Display Horticulturist is responsible for delivering an exceptional and engaging horticultural experience for guests through expert plant care, attention to detail, and the implementation of best practices in sustainable horticulture. This position will have primary responsibility for the various display collection rooms, while also providing support to other display areas as needed.

Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to attracting and retaining a diverse staff. We strive to create a working environment that is inclusive, equitable and welcoming as we honor employee experiences, perspectives, and unique identities.

PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Carry out all horticultural duties within assigned Conservatory display rooms and/or gardens, including but not limited to watering, deadheading, planting, mulching, pruning, fertilizing and integrated pest management, using the best, most sustainable practices, keeping areas immaculately maintained with particular attention to detail.
2. Maintain room conditions, including ventilation, temperature and keeping floors clean and dry throughout the day. Wipe signs daily or as needed. Be aware of safety concerns and alert managers to any problems.
3. Must be able to work both indoors and outdoors the Conservatory along with working around the Center for Sustainable Landscapes.
4. Act as the team leader for installation of seasonal flower shows and exhibits that occur in designated Conservatory rooms or gardens. May assist in design of rooms or gardens. Assist with overall show install throughout the Conservatory. Effectively supervise volunteers, students and staff in the care of the specified display rooms or gardens.
5. Troubleshoot garden problems and prioritize garden tasks.
6. Evaluate crops with other staff to determine future feasibility for displays.
7. Monitor, diagnose and treat insect, disease, physiological and cultural conditions, working with IPM Specialist.
8. Ensure all equipment is properly operated, maintained and stored.
9. May occasionally write articles, give tours, teach classes and assist with special events.
10. Work closely with college interns for approximately 3 months to ensure their workday is productive.
11. Respond to inquiries from the public regarding plants and care; maintain excellent customer relations.
12. Maintain Pennsylvania pesticide applicator license through appropriate and timely update training, being aware of credits needed.
13. Participate in weekend and holiday watering rotation.
14. Perform other activities and duties as required.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES REQUIRED

1. Knowledge and practice of highest industry standards for planting, pruning and maintenance, incorporating sustainability in all areas.
2. Knowledge of a vast plant palette and ability to research the needs of individual crops in the employee's care. Ability to suggest suitable plants to add to displays, and ability to gather information to create an ideal environment for optimum health of displays.
3. Ability to diagnose problems that are physiologically based and/or stress related, anticipate what will occur under specific conditions (i.e., soil conditions, climate) and identify stresses and proactively implement solutions.
4. Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
5. Strong organizational and problem-solving skills.
6. Computer skills — proficiency with Internet and email software. Working knowledge of IRIS and Argus software a plus.
7. Strong attention to details.
8. Ability to prioritize and work independently.
9. Ability to work with the public and co-workers in a pleasant and courteous manner.

PHYSICAL, MENTAL AND SENSORY DIMENSIONS

1. Physical mobility: sitting, standing, bending, kneeling, walking, pushing/pulling, lifting/carrying objects up to 50 pounds, climbing up to 15 feet, manual dexterity to operate keyboard.
2. Mental effort: reading, writing, analyzing and visualizing.
3. Sensory requirement: ability to communicate and respond to staff in a friendly and fair manner.
4. Strong work ethic in all areas of job performance.
5. Ability to communicate and respond both in person and over the phone to the general public, staff, volunteers and board members in a friendly, knowledgeable and professional manner.
6. Able to work under deadlines and stress.

WORKING CONDITIONS

1. Greenhouse and garden atmosphere—hot, humid, sun-filled climate.
2. Ability to provide own transportation to perform principal responsibilities.
3. May be called upon to work all shifts, weekends and/or holidays. Overtime may be required during the two-three weeks before all major shows.
4. Will have occasion to work in or pass through any area of the Conservatory or growing houses.

MINIMUM POSITION GUIDELINES (Education, Experience and Certification)

1. Minimum of B.A. or B.S. degree in plant sciences or related field. Four-year horticulture degree preferred.
2. At least two years’ experience in growing and maintaining plants in a professional capacity, using the highest industry standards.
3. Ability to acquire Pennsylvania pesticide applicator license within six months of hire.

Revisions, additions or deletions to this job description may be made at any point.