TITLE: Orchid Specialist

DEPARTMENT: Horticulture

REPORTS TO: Collections Manager

GENERAL SUMMARY: The Orchid Specialist is responsible for providing expert care for the orchid collection at Phipps, maintaining an exceptional display in our Orchid Room and representing Phipps on matters related to orchids. Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to attracting and retaining a diverse staff. We strive to create a working environment that is inclusive, equitable and welcoming as we honor employee experiences, perspectives, and unique identities. 

PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Carry out all horticultural duties pertaining to the orchid collection and displays, and other assigned Conservatory display rooms and/or gardens, including but not limited to watering, deadheading, planting, mulching, pruning, fertilizing and integrated pest management, using the best, most sustainable practices, keeping areas immaculately maintained with particular attention to detail.
2. Maintain garden/room conditions, including ventilation, temperature, when applicable, and keeping walkways clean and dry throughout the day. Wipe signs daily or as needed. Be aware of safety concerns and alert managers to any problems.
3. Incorporate best sustainable practices related to orchid care and other areas of the Conservatory as assigned.
4. Act as the team leader for installation of seasonal flower shows and exhibits that occur in designated Conservatory gardens/rooms. May assist in design of rooms. Assist with overall show install throughout the Conservatory.
5. Act as team leader in design, planning and installation of Phipps’ annual orchid show as well as the OSWP orchid show.
6. Effectively supervise interns, volunteers, students and staff in the care of the specified display rooms and orchid collection.
7. Troubleshoot garden problems and prioritize garden tasks.
8. Evaluate crops with other staff to determine future feasibility for displays.
9. Monitor, diagnose and treat insect, disease, physiological and cultural conditions, working with IPM Specialist.
10. Ensure all equipment is properly operated, maintained and stored.
11. Attend Orchid Society meetings and other networking events related to the orchid collection.
12. Write articles, give tours, teach classes and assist with special events.
13. May attend and speak at local, regional and national orchid conferences.
14. Respond to inquiries from the public regarding plants and care; maintain excellent customer relations.
15. Maintain Pennsylvania pesticide applicator license through appropriate and timely update training, being aware of credits needed.
16. Participate in weekend watering rotation.
17. Perform other activities and duties as required.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES REQUIRED

1. Knowledge of and experience growing a broad array of orchids in a professional setting, with an area or areas of specialty.
2. Knowledge and practice of highest industry standards for planting, pruning and maintenance, incorporating sustainability in all areas.
3. Knowledge of a vast plant palette and ability to research the needs of individual crops in the employee's care. Ability to suggest suitable plants to add to displays, and ability to gather information to create an ideal environment for optimum health of displays.
4. Ability to diagnose problems that are physiologically based and/or stress related, anticipate what will occur under specific conditions (i.e., soil conditions, climate) and identify stresses and proactively implement solutions.
5. Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including demonstrated experience with public speaking and ability to represent Phipps and Phipps orchid collection locally and nationally.
6. Demonstrated ability to write professional papers.
7. Strong organizational and problem-solving skills.
8. Computer skills — proficiency with Internet and email software. Working knowledge of IRIS and Argus software a plus.
9. Strong attention to details.
10. Ability to prioritize and work independently.
11. Ability to work with the public and co-workers in a pleasant and courteous manner.

PHYSICAL, MENTAL AND SENSORY DIMENSIONS

1. Physical mobility: sitting, standing, bending, kneeling, walking, pushing/pulling, lifting/carrying objects up to 80 pounds, climbing up to 15 feet, manual dexterity to operate keyboard.
2. Mental effort: reading, writing, analyzing and visualizing.
3. Sensory requirement: ability to communicate and respond to staff in a friendly and fair manner.
4. Strong work ethic in all areas of job performance.
5. Ability to communicate and respond both in person and over the phone to the general public, staff, volunteers and board members in a friendly, knowledgeable and professional manner.
6. Able to work under deadlines and stress.

WORKING CONDITIONS

1. Greenhouse and garden atmosphere—hot, humid, sun-filled climate.
2. Ability to provide own transportation to perform principal responsibilities. Travel may be required.
3. May be called upon to work all shifts, weekends and/or holidays. Overtime may be required during the two-three weeks before all major shows.
4. Will have occasion to work in or pass through any area of the Conservatory or growing houses.

MINIMUM POSITION GUIDELINES (Education, Experience and Certification)

1. Minimum of B.A. or B.S. degree in horticulture or related field, or equivalent experience.
2. At least five years’ experience in growing and maintaining orchids in a professional capacity, using the highest industry standards.
3. Ability to acquire Pennsylvania pesticide applicator license within six months of hire.