Plant Care & Garden Tech — Entry Level

Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens; Jacksonville (FL); On-site; USD 45,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens in Jacksonville, FL, is seeking a hands-on Plant Care / Garden Specialist to provide professional care of diverse plantings, manage gardens and greenhouse spaces, and engage guests through tours and talks. The role emphasizes safety, conservation, and collaborating with teams across the zoo.

We value flexibility and a passion for horticulture, with a commitment to a drug-free workplace, E-verify, and accommodations as needed.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Familiarity with Microsoft Office and willingness to learn new software.
• Strong passion for horticulture and desire for long-term growth.
• Ability to compile a plant list within 90 days.

Responsibilities

• Provide excellent care of plants through planting, pruning, mulching, weeding, watering, fertilizing and pest management.
• Identify plants on the property and understand regional growth needs.
• Care for trees, shrubs, grasses, perennials, annuals, tropicals, palms, succulents, aquatics, turf, and groundcover.
• Maintain gardens and green spaces to be aesthetically pleasing and functional.
• Safely use tools (pruners, shovels, rakes, mowers, landscape equipment) for garden upkeep.
• Maintain the greenhouse, nursery, and shop area.
• Engage with staff and guests, contributing to an inclusive and safe environment.
• Collaborate with teams to share information and support guest experiences.
• Assist with recruitment, training, and mentoring of new staff, volunteers, and interns.
• Identify and mitigate safety hazards, reporting issues promptly.
• Protect plants, animals, and habitats; transplant and plant materials properly.

Skills

Plant care

Garden maintenance

Guest engagement

Safety awareness

Education

High School diploma or equivalent

Microsoft Office familiarity

Interest in horticulture

Tools

MS Office Suite

Job description

Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens in Jacksonville, FL, is seeking a hands-on Plant Care / Garden Specialist to provide professional care of diverse plantings, manage gardens and greenhouse spaces, and engage guests through tours and talks. The role emphasizes safety, conservation, and collaborating with teams across the zoo.

We value flexibility and a passion for horticulture, with a commitment to a drug-free workplace, E-verify, and accommodations as needed.