Manager of Horticulture

Do you see a garden and think strategy? Do you geek out over greenhouses, rare specimens, and the science of making things bloom? We're looking for a Manager of Horticulture to lead the living, growing heart of our Zoo — shaping botanical exhibitions that stop visitors in their tracks, building a team that takes pride in every petal, and championing the sustainability practices that keep our green spaces thriving for generations to come.

Employment Status: Full-Time

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt

Starting Pay Rate: $25.65 - $32.06/hr

Minimum Experience & Education Requirements : Three (3) years of progressive experience in a formal horticulture, landscape, or grounds maintenance role, two years of supervisory experience, and a relevant associate’s degree or relevant certifications or an equivalent combination of education and experience to successfully perform the essential duties will be considered.

Department: Horticulture

Direct Supervisor: Assistant Director of Gardens and Grounds

Supervisory Responsibility: Direct (5), indirect (0), and volunteers

Primary Work Location: Zoo setting both indoors and outdoors

Certification: Valid Oklahoma driver’s license and relevant pesticide and certified applicator licenses within thirty (30) days of hire

Other: This position is safety sensitive and subject to pre-employment and/or periodic background checks and drug testing

Job Summary: The Manager of Horticulture is responsible for the strategic planning, execution, and continuous improvement of the Zoo’s horticulture operations and botanical exhibitions. The role provides leadership and direction for horticulture staff and volunteers to ensure excellence in the Zoo’s botanical presentation. Oversight includes greenhouse operations, plant procurement, cultivation/reproduction, garden maintenance and aesthetics, sustainability practices, pest control, and staff and guest safety.

Essential Job Functions

An employee in this position may be called upon to do any or all of the following essential duties:

• Plan, direct, and evaluate all aspects of plant cultivation, propagation, and presentation to align with the Zoo’s guest experience and conservation goals.
• Research, order, and procure appropriate plant material, soils, pesticides, etc.
• Oversee installation of plant material for new and existing gardens, various other landscaping, and the animal browse program.
• Be able to identify potentially toxic plants and oversee the Zoo’s toxic plant program.
• Oversee the installation and maintenance of irrigation systems.
• Develop work plans and coordinate staff, contractors, and volunteers.
• Lead project planning and execution for horticulture needs within new exhibits, renovations, and major landscaping initiatives.
• Oversee greenhouse operations for plant propagation and maintenance.
• Promote a culture of safety for guests and staff.
• Recruit new personnel for assigned areas. Develop staff by providing training opportunities, regular performance evaluations, and continual feedback.
• Collaborate with the broader Gardens and Grounds team on daily operations and initiatives.
• Work with department leadership to maintain organized and accurate records.
• Lead with patience, empathy, flexibility, reliability, and positivity. Provide quality service to both internal and external constituencies.
• Promote and contribute to the Oklahoma City Zoo’s sustainability initiatives and green practices.
• Communicate effectively regarding the status of projects as they pertain to the assigned areas of horticulture/garden and grounds maintenance.
• Communicate and collaborate with Zoo personnel and professional colleagues.
• Represent the Zoo in a professional manner.
• Complete assigned tasks in a timely manner and meet deadlines by anticipating resource needs and adjusting staffing, materials, and timelines proactively.
• Participate in conservation activities to support Zoo’s mission.
• Have or develop the technical and administrative expertise to achieve and maintain the Zoo’s botanical garden accreditation.
• Oversee the strategic management of plant records and collection data within Hortis , ensuring all botanical documentation meets industry standards

Non-Essential Job Functions

• Perform other duties as assigned.

About Us

Oklahoma City is one of the fastest-growing metros in the United States and is the 20th largest city in the nation. For nearly two decades our residents have continually invested in our community to make it a place people can find belonging, visit and call home. Our employees are at the heart of those investments–delivering essential services our residents expect and creating a strong and thriving city for all people. Visit Oklahoma City-A Great Place to Live and Work! to learn more about our city.