Horticulturalist

Wake Forest University; Reynolda Village (NC); On-site; USD 42,000 - 54,000; Full time

Job summary

Wake Forest University is seeking a Horticulturist to maintain designated garden areas in Reynolda Gardens. You will work with leadership to uphold horticultural standards, manage volunteers, and contribute to an active education program through tours and articles.

The role requires an Associate’s degree in Horticulture or related field, an NC pesticide license or ability to obtain, and strong skills in plant care, IPM, and program coordination.

Qualifications

• Associate’s degree in Horticulture or related field required.
• Active NC pesticide applicator’s license or ability to obtain within one year.
• Valid driver’s license with good driving record; must be insurable.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, Google Workspace, and related computer programs.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks with strong organizational and time‑management skills.
• Ability to research and write horticultural articles for publication.
• Ability to conduct tours, give classes, and workshops on horticultural topics.
• Ability to work with and organize volunteers.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills and professional demeanor.
• Follow all university policies and procedures.

Responsibilities

• Plan, plant, and maintain assigned garden areas as directed.
• Prepare planting beds and install woody/herbaceous plants, perennials, annuals, and bulbs.
• Prune, propagate, transplant, fertilize, and apply IPM practices.
• Support seasonal displays, events, and garden projects.
• Coordinate with volunteers; train, schedule, and manage volunteers.
• Assist with education program: classes, tours, articles for Reynolda Gardens.
• Operate and maintain grounds equipment (mowers, edgers, blowers).
• Transport materials with trucks/tractors as required.
• Follow university policies and procedures.
• Work flexible hours, weekends, holidays, and special events.

Skills

Horticulture knowledge

Plant identification

Volunteer management

Written communication

Tour presentation

Education

Associate’s degree in Horticulture

Tools

Microsoft Office

Google Workspace

Job description

Overview

The Horticulturist will work closely with the Director, Gardens Manager, and Reynolda Gardens staff to maintain designated garden areas to high horticultural standards befitting a regionally recognized institution. Knowledge of plants, their cultural requirements, and basic design principles is expected. The role includes managing volunteers, student workers, and interns within the broader Reynolda Gardens team.

Responsibilities

• Plan, plant, and maintain assigned areas in the 4 acres of the Formal Gardens and the 130 acres of the Greater Gardens as directed.
• Prepare planting beds and install woody and herbaceous plants, perennials, annuals, and bulbs.
• Prune, propagate, transplant, fertilize, and apply Integrated Pest Management (IPM) practices.
• Support seasonal displays, special events, and garden enhancement projects.
• Coordinate with the Reynolda Manager of Tours and Volunteers, train, schedule, and manage volunteers.
• Assist with the education program, presenting classes, giving tours, and writing articles for Reynolda Gardens publications.
• Operate and handle various grounds maintenance equipment (e.g., power mowers, edgers, power blowers).
• Operate light or medium weight trucks to pick up and deliver materials and supplies; operate light or medium weight tractors and attachments as required.
• Follow all university policies and procedures.
• Work flexible hours, including weekends, rotational schedules, special events, and holidays.

Qualifications

• Associate’s degree in Horticulture or related field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Active NC pesticide applicator’s license required or ability to obtain one within one calendar year.
• Valid driver’s license with a good driving record; must be insurable.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, Google Workspace, and related computer programs.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks using effective organizational and time‑management skills.
• Ability to research and write horticultural-related articles for publication.
• Ability to conduct tours, give classes, and workshop on various horticultural topics.
• Ability to work with and organize volunteers.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills, strong interpersonal skills, and a professional demeanor.
• Ability to follow all university policies and procedures.

Accountabilities

• Recruit, train, and schedule volunteers.
• Report to the Manager of Reynolda Gardens.

Physical Requirements

Ability to pick up or lift 40 lbs.

Environmental Conditions

Work occurs both indoors and outdoors, subject to environmental conditions.

Employment Type

Full time

Note to Applicant

This position profile identifies the key responsibilities and expectations for performance. It cannot encompass all specific job tasks that an employee may be required to perform. Employees are required to follow any other job‑related instructions and perform job-related duties as may be reasonably assigned by their supervisor.

Equal Opportunity Statement

The University is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes all qualified candidates to apply without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, genetic information, disability, and military or veteran status.

Accommodations for Applicants

If you are an individual with a disability and need an accommodation to participate in the application or interview process, please contact [e-mail] or (336) 758‑4700.