In this role you will be responsible for the following:
- Work closely with the floriculturist, outdoor, on all aspects of crop production and make daily decisions on plant culture.
- Assist the other floriculturists and nursery supervisor in all aspects of production through watering, fertilizing, pest control, transplanting, spacing, sanitation, ordering, scheduling, and inventory.
- Apply insecticides, fungicides, herbicides, and plant growth regulators on a weekly basis if needed, as determined by the senior growers.
- Work one weekend day as part of the normal work week and be responsible for all plant health and identification of any mechanical facility issues.
- Work scheduled holidays as assigned.
- Assist in the delivery of plants to grounds, flower shows, plant sales, and other special events.
- Assist with Greenhouse bio-control program.
- Generate reports from the production inventory database, do data entry, and make labels through production label system.
- Maintain a moderate level of computer literacy for the purposes of interdepartmental documentation and communication.
- Assist with tours as needed.
Key Garden competencies/behaviors desired:
- Communicates in a manner that gains the trust and support of others at all levels.
- Works effectively with others despite differences of opinion and style; builds alliances.
- Has a tolerance for opposing points of view.
- Strives for collaboration. Works cooperatively, as a positive contributor to the team.
- Demonstrates a positive attitude and shows kindness in all workplace interactions.
- Makes decisions appropriate for level of responsibility.
- Can effectively adapt to change; can shift gears comfortably; is flexible, and embraces change with a "can-do" attitude.
- Is self-aware; knows personal strengths and weaknesses; seeks feedback and is open to negative feedback as an opportunity for improvement.
- Is cool under pressure; can be counted on to hold things together during tough times; can handle stress; is not knocked off balance by the unexpected; is a settling influence during a crisis.
- Recognizes problems, constructively identifies and articulates solutions.
- Picks up garbage when it is seen regardless of position.
- Follows safety guidelines to ensure a safe working environment and consistently demonstrates safe work behaviors.
- Is welcoming of new hires.
Our ideal candidate will have the following:
- Associate's degree in horticulture or equivalent, with two years' experience in greenhouse and nursery operations.
- General knowledge of small tools and equipment.
- Basic computer knowledge required, with use of spreadsheets and inventory databases preferred.
- A valid driver's license and insurable by the Chicago Horticultural Society.
- Must have or be able to obtain an Illinois operator's license for pesticide applications.
*Chicago Botanic Garden requires all existing employees be fully COVID vaccinated by October 15, 2021; hires post this date must be fully vaccinated upon hire.*
Come work in a setting that is like no other as you : We cultivate the power of plants to sustain and enrich life. Take the first step toward being one of the employees who make the Garden one of the treasures of the Forest Preserves of Cook County. Apply today. Please note that applicants who do not meet the required qualifications will not be considered.
Disclaimer: The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities and qualifications required of personnel so classified.
The Chicago Botanic Garden is a M/F, Disabled, and Vet EEO/AA Employer.
We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and do not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of race, color, sex, age, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, status as a veteran, and basis of disability or any other federal, state or local protected class.
In accordance with Title IX of the Education Amendments Act of 1972, the Chicago Botanic Garden does not discriminate on the basis of sex in its programs or activities, including in employment or admissions. Please call (847) 835-8264 to contact our Title IX coordinator should you have questions or concerns.