Assistant Horticulturalist

With general direction from the Native Plant Propagation Program Manager and Native Landscape Coordinator, the Assistant Horticulturalist is responsible for assisting with the execution, general design, and maintenance of the garden beds at Cincinnati Nature Center and Long Branch Farms. Additionally, assists with the operation and maintenance of the native plant propagation program. Manages, directs, and executes all activities with the highest standards for safety, customer service, and in keeping with the Nature Center’s Mission and Core Values.

Horticulture (50%)

• Help develop a cohesive vision for showcasing native plant species in beds, gardens, and natural areas
• Assist and as directed, lead in the design, installation, and maintenance of all gardens and beds
• Act as landscaping service provider to operational departments to ensure seasonal displays and exhibits are appropriate for upcoming events and programs
• Assist with training seasonal staff and volunteers

Nursery/Plant Propagation (40%)

• Assist with all stages of propagation: seed collection, sowing, transplanting, etc.
• Assist with the development and maintenance of infrastructure such as seed rows and hoop houses
• Assist with inventory management and tracking
• help facilitate onsite and offsite plant sales
• Lead and assist with volunteer groups including supervision of power tools, tractors, etc.
• Assist with training seasonal part-time staff and volunteers

Additional Job Responsibilities (10%)

• Conservation Team Responsibilities: Assist in prescribed fires, participate in department-wide projects, such as farm clean-outs. Assist with contract work (e.g. landscape installations)
• Special Events: Attend organizational functions/events held on evenings or weekends.

These job responsibilities represent only the essential and most significant duties of the position.

This job description does not exclude other work assignments, directives and responsibilities not mentioned herein.

SKILLS

• Working knowledge of Microsoft Office including the use of Outlook
• Willingness to learn other software as needed
• Collaborative working style utilizing strong organzational and customer service skills
• Use of landscape maintenance equipment including mowers, weedeaters, pruners, shovels, axes, and other tools
• Ability to recognize various plant species, understand their growing requirements, and provide proper care (watering, pruning, fertilizing, pest control)

ABILITIES

• Be a passionate advocate for nature to articulate the mission of Cincinnati Nature Center
• Ability to work independently

• Communicate effectively and professionally including oral, written, and listening methods
• Manage time and multiple priorities to meet deadlines
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships with internal and external contacts
• Exhibit good judgement, honesty, integrity, and responsibility

• Education in Horticulture or related field and/or previous relavant work experience in gardening, landscaping, nurseries, or botanical gardens
• Knowledge of safe handling practices for tools and chemicals

• This position requires the following physical activities: pushing, pulling, climbing, bending, stooping, kneeling, twisting, reaching, sitting, standing, walking, lifting, finger dexterity, grasping, repetitive motions, talking, hearing and visual acuity.

• Work is primarily performed on-site, indoors in an office environment and outdoors in the nature preserve. Occasional remote work acceptable.
• Local travel may be required. Some travel to regional conferences may be required. When a Nature Center vehicle is not available, the use of personal vehicle (reimbursed at IRS recommended rate) may be needed for Cincinnati Nature Center business.

• Mission Support: Inspiring Conservation through personal experiences, education, and care for the land.
• Essential Qualities: Must enjoy nature, be energized by finding creative solutions, and possess a sense of humor, creativity, and an entrepreneurial spirit.
• Background Checks: Employment is contingent upon the successful outcome of BCI and FBI background checks. Background checks are conducted in compliance with applicable federal and state law, under code 5104.013.
• CPR & First Aid: Certification must be obtained and maintained throughout employment.
• Professional Learning, Development, and Required Training: Employees shall engage in ongoing professional learning and development as well as shall complete ongoing required training relevant to safety, certification, and best business practices.
• Special Events: From time to time, employees shall be required to support special events which may fall outside of the normal work schedule including weekends/evenings.

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