Horticulturist

Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens is hiring! Are you a horticulturist who is passionate about plants and the environment, loves working with people, and is committed to supporting the Gardens’ IDEA (Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, and Accessibility) goals? We’re looking for an experienced horticulturist excited about inspiring meaningful connections among people, plants, and nature in one of the most beautiful settings in Maine. Our horticulture team designs, installs, and maintains healthy, biodiverse cultivated gardens across 325 acres of natural and built space. The planning, implementation, and maintenance of inspiring garden spaces will be the primary work of the horticulturist throughout the spring, summer, and fall, providing a beautiful experience for every guest. The role may involve inter‑departmental collaboration on invasive species, IDEA initiatives, and community-building. In the fall and winter, the team brings to life the popular winter light show, Gardens Aglow. Year‑round, full‑time (40 hours per week), benefits‑eligible, non‑exempt. Typical work week: Monday‑Friday, 7:30 am to 4:00 pm. Some weekend, holiday, and evening hours may be required for special events. Salary: $23.50–$26.00 per hour. Primary Functions Excellence in ornamental garden care: planting, mulching, weeding, staking, deadheading, pruning, watering, plant and pest identification, integrated pest management, and overall plant health care within assigned garden spaces and across the Gardens as needed. Recommend plant selections and design for assigned garden spaces, including annual plantings and improvements to existing beds, in coordination with the Curator of Living Collections and Horticulture Director. Maintain horticulture building and equipment, including sharpening tools and performing repairs. Collaborate on group projects within the Horticulture department. Collaborate with other departments and the community: teach classes, speak to groups, lead specialized tours, and work with student employees, interns, and volunteers. Develop a horticultural specialty, serving as a resident expert and sharing expertise with co‑workers and visitors. Provide training and mentorship to horticulture interns, seasonal gardeners, and volunteers. Engage with visitors and donors about the Gardens’ horticultural practices and leadership. Contribute to Gardens Aglow light installation, removal, and storage. Contribute to other Gardens‑wide initiatives as needed, including garden art installations and special events. Physical Requirements This position has very high physical demands. Most of the time will be spent outdoors in Maine’s temperate climate (sun, rain, cold temperatures). The approximate percentages of time spent on essential tasks are: 80% bending/stooping, squatting, reaching, kneeling, repetitive hand/finger use, fine manipulation, firm grasping, and head/neck movements. 20% sitting. Maximum load: 50 lbs. Interview Process Interview 1: Virtual interview Interview 2: In‑person (if available) Requirements Education or experience: BS in horticulture (preferred) or related plant science field, or at least 3 years of practical experience in horticulture or landscape design/maintenance. Public garden experience preferred. Familiarity with plants common in the Northeast and knowledge of regional wild flora. Enthusiasm for the organization’s mission, positive team spirit, and interest in ecological horticultural practices. Experience running and maintaining power equipment helpful; confidence on ladders required; boom lift experience a plus. Ability to work independently and as part of a team. Comfortable interacting with guests, staff, board members, and the community. Teaching or public speaking experience desired. Commitment to integrating IDEA principles into internal operations and visitor interactions. #J-18808-Ljbffr SupportFinity™