Nursery Horticulturist

Position Title: Nursery Horticulturalist

Department: Horticulture

Reports To: Plant Introduction Manager and Director of Collections

Position Objectives: Manage, improve, interpret, and promote Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden as a world-class horticultural institution. Provide leadership and vision to guide volunteers and staff members in propagating and growing plants for the Garden. 

ABOUT FAIRCHILD TROPICAL BOTANIC GARDEN

Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden is among the world’s best tropical botanic gardens where you fill find internationally renowned collections of palms, flowering trees, tropical fruits, vines, aroids, and endangered species, which provide a living laboratory for scientists, and the opportunities for discovery for everyone. Fairchild is also a beautiful venue for family-friendly annual events such as the award-winning light spectacular, NightGarden, Chocolate Festival, Mango Festival, and more. With its picturesque paths, vistas, and displays combined with engaging events and activations, Fairchild provides an unforgettable experience for each and every guest.

Job Responsibilities:

Horticulture & Plant Propagation

• Grow plants to the highest possible standard, maintaining the health and diversity of Fairchild’s scientific collections while maximizing aesthetic appeal.
• Work with the Horticulture team to organize plant propagation.
• The Nursery Horticulturist is responsible for advancing plant propagation, hybridization, cultivation, and documentation of plant material from Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden’s collections and beyond.

Nursery Operations & Maintenance

• Conduct regular inspections of nursery facilities and address any issues that might affect safety (e.g. slippery pathways).
• Propagate plants from collections using appropriate horticultural techniques, including cuttings, divisions, and controlled pollination
• Work closely with the Plant Records Manager to ensure all documentation of plants comply with institutional standards. 
• Coordinate propagation for sales initiatives with the Plant Introduction Manager. 
• Coordinate with the Nursery Managers and related staff to ensure plants are properly maintained and monitored for health. 
• Coordinate with the Nursery Managers to inspect irrigation, climate control, pest management, and sanitation practices within assigned growing areas.
• Contribute to storm preparation efforts prior to arrival of tropical storms or hurricanes, including triage protection measures, and cleanup activities when storm damage occurs. 

Volunteer Leadership & Supervision

• Provide hands-on supervision, training, and mentorship to volunteers working in plant propagation and nursery operations.
• Develop clear daily work plans and ensure volunteers understand horticultural best practices, safety standards, and institutional procedures.
• Foster a collaborative, inclusive, and educational volunteer environment that encourages skill development and long-term engagement.
• Model professional horticultural techniques and reinforce high standards of plant care, documentation, and nursery organization.

Education and Outreach

• Support Education, Marketing, and Special Events departments with horticultural interpretation and programming.
• Participate in Fairchild’s teaching programs, leading classes and tours for students, members, and the public.
• Assist with Fairchild’s initiatives to establish, curate, and interpret tropical plant collections in public and private landscapes throughout South Florida.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Must be at least 18 years old.
• A degree in Horticulture preferred but not required.
• Previous experience of working in a professional nursery setting is a plus.
• Must be able to commit to a flexible schedule.                                                                         

Physical Requirements:

• Prolonged periods standing.
• Must be able to push, and/or pull up to 50 pounds.
• Must be able to work outdoors in a variety of weather conditions.
• Must be able to bend, stoop, climb, reach, and lift up to 40 pounds at a time.

*Salary Commensurate with experience.

Salary : $22 - $25