What are the responsibilities and job description for the Head Gardener/Horticulturist position at The Falmouth Country Club?
Head Gardener / Horticulturist
Location: Falmouth Country Club – Falmouth, Maine
Employment Type: Full-Time, Year-Round
Salary: $70,000 per year
Reports To: Director of Agronomy, GM
About the Role:
Falmouth Country Club is seeking a Head Gardener / Horticulturist to oversee the design, cultivation, and maintenance of all landscaped areas, agricultural gardens, and specialty gardens across our golf course and club property. This role requires expertise in horticulture, arboriculture, turf science, and agriculture, ensuring a beautiful, productive, and sustainable landscape that enhances both the aesthetic and functional aspects of the club’s environment.
The Head Gardener will work closely with the Club’s Landscape Architect to execute a long-term master landscaping plan, incorporating ornamental gardens, agricultural food production, orchards, and private Zen gardens. This position will also play a key role in year-round farming operations, supporting our Food & Beverage program through the cultivation of fruits, vegetables, herbs, edible flowers and cut flowers for use in club dining and member-related classes.
Key Responsibilities:
- Implement and oversee the club’s master landscaping plan in coordination with the Landscape Architect.
- Maintain and enhance ornamental gardens, native plantings, and specialty landscapes throughout the property.
- Assist in the construction, selection, and maintenance of agricultural gardens, including:
- Year-round farming capabilities utilizing greenhouses.
- Orchards for seasonal fruit production.
- Cut flower gardens/fields for decorative and event use.
- Private Zen gardens for relaxation and member enjoyment.
- Support the F&B operation by supplying fresh produce, herbs, and edible flowers for club dining.
- Develop and manage member education programs related to gardening, sustainability, and farm-to-table practices.
- Plan and execute seasonal planting schedules, including annuals, perennials, and edible crops.
- Monitor and maintain soil health, plant nutrition, pest control, and irrigation management.
- Work closely with the Golf Course Maintenance Team to integrate landscaping with turf management.
- Supervise a small team of gardeners and seasonal staff, ensuring high-quality landscape care.
- Manage inventory, procurement, and budget for plants, soil amendments, and garden supplies.
- Ensure all horticultural, agricultural, and arboricultural practices align with environmental sustainability and club standards.
Qualifications:
- A 2-year certificate or 4-year degree in Plant Sciences required.
- Acceptable fields: Horticulture, Arboriculture, Turf Science, or Agriculture.
- 3 years of professional experience in horticulture, landscape management, or agricultural operations.
- Strong knowledge of native plants, ornamental landscaping, tree care, and soil management.
- Experience with organic and sustainable farming practices, including greenhouse operations.
- Ability to operate and maintain small farm and landscape equipment, irrigation systems, and garden tools.
- Experience in educational programming or member engagement is a plus.
- Strong organizational and leadership skills, including staff supervision.
- Passion for blending aesthetics with functionality, creating landscapes that serve both visual and practical purposes.
Why Join Us?
- Work in a beautiful, outdoor setting on a premier golf course property.
- Play a key role in developing a unique farm-to-table and member engagement experience.
- Opportunity to lead and design landscape and agricultural projects that contribute to a long-term vision.
- Competitive salary of $70,000 per year with room for professional and team growth.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $70,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Dental insurance
- Employee discount
- Flexible schedule
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
- Vision insurance
Schedule:
- Monday to Friday
- Weekends as needed
Ability to Commute:
- Falmouth, ME 04105 (Required)
Ability to Relocate:
- Falmouth, ME 04105: Relocate before starting work (Required)
Work Location: In person
Salary : $70,000