Manager of Plant Records and Horticulture Programs

Essential Job Functions

• Manage the plant records, including the plant records database (irisBG), the manufacturing and installation of plant labels, and management of regular plant inventories, accession mapping, plant identification, plant toxicity evaluation list, and data validation.
• Manage plant health care initiatives and plant quarantines under the direction of the Director of Horticulture, including indoor environmental data tracking, coordinating horticulture IPM program with Pest Control, scouting for insect infestations and exploring solutions to improve plant health across zoo gardens.
• Manage plant propagation initiatives including propagule collection, sowing of seed, and asexual propagation.
• Aids the Director of Horticulture in the development of specialized horticultural collections including sourcing and ordering of plant materials, and assisting in siting of permanent collection plants.
• Aids the Director of Horticulture in the development of programmatic components of the horticulture program, managing special projects as assigned including tours, classes, after-hours events, and phenology programs.
• Aids the Director of Horticulture in programmatic information management, producing and maintaining various documents, files, and reports as requested.
• Aids the Director of Horticulture in grant writing and donor cultivation as requested.
• Collaborates with other departments at the zoo as a representative of the horticulture team.
• Collaborates with external partners and seeks new opportunities for professional partnerships in plant research, conservation, public horticulture, and/or community-based projects.
• Aids the Director of Horticulture in preparation of annual horticulture budget.
• Represents the zoo in meetings and interactions with current and potential donors, partners, and other stakeholders. May be asked to present at zoo events or professional meetings and conferences.
• May be asked to develop and implement training for horticulture team and volunteers.
• Supervises the Public Horticulture Intern and supports other horticulture staff, assisting with potential research projects and interdepartmental collaboration.
• Supports horticultural operations in zoo gardens, occasionally overseeing operational projects and horticulture contractors.
• Ensures cleanliness, order, and safety of working environment for oneself and those in and surrounding the work site.
• Occasionally participates in operations horticulture, including: grooming, mulching, planting, pruning, watering, weeding and other horticultural care.

Additional Responsibilities

• May use electric cart and/or hand truck to transport plants and supplies.
• May use vehicle for zoo pick-ups and deliveries.
• May be asked to direct volunteers and guests in a zoo emergency.
• May be asked to participate in a Zoo Committee.
• May be asked to develop and implement training for horticulture team and volunteers.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift on a frequent basis up to 50 lbs.
• Ability to remain on feet for long periods of time.
• Ability to frequently bend, stoop, reach and climb.
• Ability to safely and effectively utilize the program tools and equipment.
• Ability to move about on sometimes slippery, muddy surfaces.
• Ability to work in all weather conditions.
• Ability to work on uneven terrain.

Compensation

$55,000 - $59,000

Benefits

• Standard benefits (Blue Cross Blue Shield) as medical, dental, vision, life, and disability coverages, and a 403(b) savings plan with an institutional match.
• Quarterly staff mingle events and “LPZooU” training and educational sessions about the zoo, wildlife, ecology, and related subjects.
• Company contribution to Health Savings Account (Medical PPO only).
• Free admission to many other Chicago cultural institutions.
• Free on-site parking anytime with access to Lincoln Park, Lakeshore Trail, and North Avenue Beach.
• Discounts on event tickets (free admission to select events), attractions, dining, and retail at the zoo.
• Special events that may occur outside of regular work schedule as assigned.
• Emergency and storm related horticulture events as needed, including potential to be called in on days that are scheduled off or during unscheduled hours.