Zoo Horticulture Specialist II - Living Landscape Designer

Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance; Denver (CO); On-site; USD 33,000 - 41,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical benefits

403(b) Retirement Account with match

Generous paid time off

Job summary

Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance is seeking a Horticulture Specialist II to manage landscaping and living exhibits on-site in Denver, ensuring high standards of plant health and guest experience.

You will collaborate with animal care and arboriculture teams to design plant displays, and assist with irrigation, pest management, and seasonal projects. The role demands teamwork, reliability, and adaptability in a dynamic zoo environment.

Qualifications

• Associate degree in horticulture or related field, or equivalent experience.
• One year of paid full-time professional experience in forestry or arboriculture.
• Two years of experience may substitute for the degree; zoo/museum horticulture experience is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Monitor and implement horticultural care for the zoo's landscapes and exhibits.
• Collaborate with animal care teams to plant within animal exhibits.
• Collaborate with Arboriculture team to maintain tree and shrub collections.
• Participate in snow removal operations and be available weekends/holidays on-call.
• Support DZCA events and operations, including Zoo Lights.
• Maintain professional relationships with zoo staff, contractors, and volunteers.

Skills

Computer skills

Organizational skills

Written & verbal communication

Team collaboration

Education

A.S. in horticulture

Job description

Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance is seeking a Horticulture Specialist II to manage landscaping and living exhibits on-site in Denver, ensuring high standards of plant health and guest experience.

You will collaborate with animal care and arboriculture teams to design plant displays, and assist with irrigation, pest management, and seasonal projects. The role demands teamwork, reliability, and adaptability in a dynamic zoo environment.