Horticulture Assistant

Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens offers world‑class horticulture, art & nature‑based exhibitions and educational programs. The 13‑acre indoor and outdoor facility—situated two miles from downtown Columbus—features glasshouses including the historic John F. Wolfe Palm House; botanical gardens including the Scotts Miracle‑Gro Foundation Children’s Garden and Scotts Miracle‑Gro‑Foundation Community Garden Campus; and event venues. The Conservatory is home to the largest collection of Chihuly glass in a botanical garden and Light Raiment II by internationally renowned artist James Turrell. Committed to the community, the Conservatory strives to provide an accessible and welcoming experience to all. MISSION As a premier botanical garden destination, we connect people to nature and create life‑enhancing experiences. VISION Envision a world that celebrates nature as essential to the human experience. JOB SUMMARY The Horticulture Assistant is an important member of the Horticulture and Exhibitions team and will be responsible for horticulture maintenance and seasonal exhibition installations working in an indoor tropical environment. The Horticulture Assistant will report to a horticulture team Manager and take direction from Senior Horticulturists for general work coordination and daily assignments. The Horticulture Assistant can work in a variety of areas to meet the needs and goals of the department. This multifaceted position will also involve assisting with preparation for volunteer horticulture work days/sessions and exhibition installations. This role supports departmental and facility goals, mission, and values with a strong emphasis on customer service. Additional Information This is a full‑time, non‑exempt position. This position is eligible for the Conservatory's benefit package offered to full‑time employees, which includes medical, dental and vision insurance, company paid Life/AD&D/Short‑Term and Long‑Term Disability insurance, participation in the Ohio Public Employees Retirement Program (OPERS), optional 457(b) Deferred Compensation plan, generous Paid Time Off (PTO), and complimentary membership to the Conservatory. Compensation $17/hour paid biweekly RESPONSIBILITIES Prepares the property for daily public visiting hours. Works hands on in cultivated gardens and natural ecosystems. This includes, but is not limited to: weeding, planting, pruning, mulching, watering, staking, dividing, and transplanting plants, path maintenance, mowing, fertilizing, pest and disease control and seasonal plant installations on FPCBG grounds. Recognizes plant health concerns. This includes, but is not limited to: nutrition deficiencies, pest infestation and damage. Assists with the quality of the plant signage program, including, but not limited to: straightening, cleaning, reporting and turning in damaged signage. Assists with installation and removal of seasonal flower displays, exhibition displays as well as lighting displays that may include prop construction/installation. Works alongside volunteers and interns providing project direction when needed. Operates equipment and tools safely and correctly to efficiently accomplish work, including but not limited to: carts, mowers, pruners, loppers, chain saws, blowers, trucks, tractors, etc. Proper use and wear of personal protective equipment (PPE). Supports offsite storage organization and transporting of props. Supports compost runs to off‑site composting facilities. Supports snow removal and clearing in the winter, requiring flexibility in scheduling. Promptly observes and reports concerns regarding horticultural displays or safety issues, or address situations when appropriate. Performs other duties as assigned and demonstrates focus on serving the visitors and guests of the Conservatory. REQUIREMENTS (Education/Experience) High School Diploma or G.E.D. 1 year of hands‑on experience in landscape/horticulture, plant maintenance, plant identification and equipment use or an associates/Bachelors degree in horticulture, botany or related field. Knowledge of basic software programs (Word, Excel and Google Workspace). Valid Driver’s License with the ability to provide own transportation to and from work sites if needed. Ability and willingness to work flexible hours including evenings, weekends, holidays and special events as needed. KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES Ability to implement effective maintenance routines with strong attention to detail. Ability to implement landscape and conservatory designs. Ability to safely operate and maintain tools and machinery such as pruners, saws, trimmers, trucks and sprayers. Ability and willingness to apply chemicals safely and correctly with supervision. Team focused with the ability to follow directions and work independently. Frequently lifts, carries, or otherwise moves materials weighing up to 50lbs to accomplish plant or exhibition installations and maintenance. Ability to operate lifts and ladders to ascend plant canopy for maintenance safely. Ability and willingness to perform hands‑on gardening and other duties in all types of weather, indoors and outdoors: heat and humidity, freezing temperatures, wind and rain. Ability to support the mission and values of Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens. EEO Statement Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens is an Equal Opportunity Employer. The Conservatory does not discriminate in its employment decisions on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, sex, pregnancy, lactation status, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, disability, veteran or military status, genetic information, or any other protected status. The Conservatory values diversity and is committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. #J-18808-Ljbffr