Historic Garden Horticulturist

CW Talent; Williamsburg (VA); On-site; USD 23,000 - 34,000; Full time

Job summary

The Colonial Williamsburg Foundation is seeking a skilled gardener to join the Landscape Department, maintaining historic gardens to the highest horticultural standards and ensuring a pristine, safe environment.

You will assist the Lead Horticulturist with planting, pruning, soil management, weed control, and coordinating with interns and volunteers. The role requires flexibility, capable communication with visitors, and adherence to CW policies. Overtime and emergency response may be required.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED plus four years of direct garden/landscape maintenance experience, or a two-year degree in horticulture with two years of maintenance experience.
• Experience in landscape and garden maintenance at large institutions where fine gardening is practiced.
• Knowledge of landscaping tools, equipment, and horticultural practices.
• Must obtain Virginia pesticide applicator certificate within 90 days of employment.
• Valid Virginia driver's license and acceptable driving record.

Responsibilities

• Maintain the health and appearance of gardens and landscapes in assigned areas.
• Plant, prune, weed, and soil amendment; manage various hardscapes and diverse plantings.
• Attend daily briefings; prioritize work and operate with minimal supervision.
• Interact with visitors and give talks/tours to garden clubs and guests.
• Coordinate with IPM Specialist for pest management and safe chemical use.
• Operate large equipment as needed (tractors, loaders, etc.).
• Guide interns/volunteers in daily gardening activities and safety.
• Maintain tool inventory and train others on tool use and safety.
• Conduct research on CW properties and 18th-century gardening methods.
• Follow CW policies and safety procedures; be prepared for emergencies.

Skills

Public speaking skills

Communication skills

Reading/writing reports

Fast learner

Education

Diploma/GED + 4 years garden/landscape maintenance OR 2-year horticulture degree + 2 years experience

Experience at large institutions with fine gardening

Virginia Commercial Pesticide Applicator’s Certificate (within 90 days)

Virginia driver’s license with acceptable driving record

Tools

Microsoft Word

Microsoft Office

Job description

The Colonial Williamsburg Foundation is seeking a skilled gardener to join the Landscape Department, maintaining historic gardens to the highest horticultural standards and ensuring a pristine, safe environment.

You will assist the Lead Horticulturist with planting, pruning, soil management, weed control, and coordinating with interns and volunteers. The role requires flexibility, capable communication with visitors, and adherence to CW policies. Overtime and emergency response may be required.