Horticulturist - Full Time - San Diego Zoo Safari Park

San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance is an international, nonprofit conservation organization with two front doors: the San Diego Zoo and the San Diego Zoo Safari Park. We integrate wildlife health and care, science, and education to develop sustainable conservation solutions.

HOW YOU WILL IMPACT OUR MISSION
The Horticulturist performs all job assignments with a positive attitude that supports San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance's mission and vision of saving species worldwide by uniting our expertise in wildlife care and conservation science with our dedication to inspiring passion for nature. The Horticulturist under direction, performs routine horticultural, grounds maintenance, and tree related work of assigned area; develops new area when necessary. This position reports to a Lead/Supervisor.

This class is distinguished from the next higher class, Senior Horticulturist, in that the Senior Horticulturist works under minimal supervision and its duties require more horticultural skills and knowledge. The Horticulturist class performs a wide range of standard duties under general supervision at the Zoo or Safari Park.

WHAT YOU WILL DO

• Plant Cultivation and Care:
  • Plant and transplant various types of flora based on seasonal and environmental requirements.
  • Monitor plant growth and health, identifying biotic and abiotic disorders.
  • Implement appropriate fertilization, mulching and irrigation methods to ensure optimal plant development.
  • Prune, trim, and shape plants to encourage healthy growth and maintain desired aesthetics.

• Equipment Management and Safety:
  • Complete and adhere to required safety trainings
  • Effective communication with internal and external stakeholders
  • Operate and maintain horticultural equipment, such as lawnmowers, tractors, trimmers, and irrigation systems.
  • Ensure tools are cleaned, sharpened, and stored properly to prolong their lifespan.
  • Ensure vehicles are operated and maintained in alignment with Vehicle Code and Garage maintenance expectations.

• Soil Management and Improvement:
  • Conduct soil analysis to determine nutrient content, pH levels, and drainage capabilities.
  • Implement soil improvement strategies, such as composting, mulching, and aeration.
  • Recommend soil amendments and apply them as needed to optimize plant growth.

• Pest and Disease Control:
  • Monitor for pests and diseases, identifying early signs of infestation or infection.
  • Implement integrated pest management (IPM) techniques to minimize the use of chemical pesticides.
  • Apply appropriate pesticides or biological controls when necessary, following safety protocols and regulations.

• Environmental Conservation and Sustainability:
  • Promote environmentally friendly practices, such as water conservation, composting, and native plant preservation.
  • Educate staff, visitors, or clients on sustainable gardening techniques and the importance of biodiversity.

• Research, Record Keeping and Documentation:
  • Maintain detailed records of planting schedules, maintenance activities, and plant health assessments.
  • Create reports for management or clients on garden status, performance, and recommended improvements.

WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR

Two years of experience in landscaping, horticulture, botanical gardens, community gardens, or a related field is highly preferred.

JOB EXPERIENCE

• Prior commercial plant care/landscape experience preferred

EDUCATION AND CERTIFICATIONS

• A.A. in horticulture, botany, plant science, or other related degree preferred.
• Valid California Driver’s License Upon Hire required

SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE

Knowledge of:

• A variety of plants, plant materials and growth principles
• Horticultural soil conditions and preparations
• Methods and precautions for applying fertilizers and insecticides
• Working knowledge of tree removal and maintenance practices
• Proper watering techniques
• Work safety practices
• Effective customer relations skills

Ability to:

• Troubleshoot basic irrigation problems
• Manage soils, substrates, plants and amendments in a professional landscape
• Keep accurate records
• Research plants to provide special collections care
• Use a variety of industry tools safely and effectively
• Communicate and work effectively with others
• Operate power machinery as required

SOME OF THE REWARDS YOU WILL ENJOY AS A TEAM MEMBER

• Free admission to the San Diego Zoo and the San Diego Zoo Safari Park
• Family Passes
• Complimentary Tickets
• Free Parking at the San Diego Zoo & San Diego Zoo Safari Park
• Local and In-House Discounts
• Employee Assistance Program
• Wellness Program

IMPORTANT DETAILS

• Location: San Diego, CA
• Position Type: Hourly Full-Time Non-Exempt Union Position - If selected, there will be fees and dues to be paid to the union
• Hourly Rate: $28.51

About The Salary Ranges

The posted salary range represents the full compensation potential for this role over time. Initial hiring offers are typically made within the lower to mid portion of the range and are based on a combination of relevant experience, skills, qualifications, internal equity, and organizational considerations. Placement near the top of the range is generally reserved for individuals who demonstrate sustained performance, growth, and expanded responsibilities in the role over time.

Fraudulent Recruiting
Beware of fraudulent recruiting. Legitimate San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance contacts will use an @sdzwa.org email address. We do not request money, checks, equipment orders, or sensitive personal data during the recruitment process. San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance only conducts interviews via phone, Zoom, Teams or in-person.

If you have been asked for any of the above, or believe you have been contacted by someone posing as a San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance employee, please e-mail View email address on aiapply.co. If you feel that you have been the victim of fraud, please contact your financial institution(s) immediately.

At San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance, we celebrate our differences and foster a culture of belonging. Diversity strengthens our employees, enriches our guests’ experiences, deepens our connection to our community, and supports the wildlife we serve.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, national origin, disability, veteran status, or other legally protected status.

If you require a reasonable accommodation to complete an application, please email your request to View email address on aiapply.co and provide the job title and location to which you are applying.

As a Federal Contractor, San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance is required to participate in the E-Verify Program to confirm eligibility to work in the United States. We are not offering sponsorship for this position at this time.

San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance is a drug free workplace.