Conservatory Manager

Franklin Park Conservatory•Columbus, OH

6d•$56,000 - $59,000•Onsite

About The Position

Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens offers world-class horticulture, art & nature-based exhibitions and educational programs. The 13-acre indoor and outdoor facilitysituated two miles from downtown Columbusfeatures glasshouses including the historic John F. Wolfe Palm House; botanical gardens including the Scotts Miracle-Gro Foundation Childrens 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 Conservatory Manager is a key member of the Horticulture team and is responsible for: the care, health, and long-term stewardship of the Conservatorys interior living plant collections, the leadership, training, mentorship, and development of horticulture staff, and the operation of the Conservatorys climate control systems. This role ensures best horticultural practices are consistently applied, oversees daily growing conditions including temperature, humidity, light, and ventilation, and works closely with engineering staff to maintain safe and reliable operations. The Manager also manages and/or assists with North Star Master Plan projects and initiatives as assigned. The Conservatory Manager collaborates with the Production Greenhouse Manager and plant collections team to coordinate plant production in support of the Conservatorys interior collections, including propagation planning, space assignments, acclimation processes, and integrated pest management practices. In partnership with the Associate Director of Horticulture and other department managers, this role leads horticultural project planning, supports cross-departmental coordination, and fosters staff training, mentorship, and team building while upholding the mission and values of Franklin Park Conservatory. Additional Information: This is a full-time exempt position based in Columbus, Ohio. 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: $56,000 - $59,000 annual salary.

Requirements

Associates or Bachelors degree in horticulture, plant science, greenhouse management, or a closely related field, or an equivalent combination of education and professional experience.
Minimum of 5 years of experience in horticulture, conservatory, or greenhouse operations, preferably within a public garden, botanical garden, museum, zoo, or similar visitor-focused institution.
Demonstrated experience managing and caring for diverse living plant collections, including tropical or controlled-environment collections.
Proven knowledge of plant health care practices, including integrated pest management, fertilization, pruning, and disease identification.
Hands-on experience with conservatory or greenhouse climate control systems, including temperature, humidity, lighting, and ventilation.
Supervisory experience leading horticulture staff, interns, and volunteers, with a strong emphasis on staff training, mentorship, and team development.
Experience with project planning, scheduling, and coordination across departments, including collaboration with production greenhouse, facilities, and operations teams.
Familiarity with plant records, accessioning, labeling, and collection management systems.
Valid Ohio Certified Pesticide Applicators License.
Valid Forklift Certification.
Valid Drivers 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.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to clearly convey information to staff, volunteers, leadership, and external partners.
Proficiency in the use of basic computer software, including Microsoft Word, Excel, and other standard office applications.
Demonstrated ability to develop, implement, and communicate effective plant maintenance and care strategies that support high standards of plant health and presentation.
Strong organizational, time management, and project management skills, with attention to detail and the ability to work independently while managing multiple priorities, problem solving, meeting deadlines, delegating responsibilities, and adapting to changing priorities.
Ability to build and maintain professional, service-oriented relationships with staff, volunteers, vendors, donors, and board members.
Proven leadership skills with the ability to motivate others, foster teamwork, and promote a collaborative and inclusive work environment.
Ability to translate technical horticultural concepts into clear, practical guidance for team members with varying levels of experience.
Demonstrated ability to manage horticultural displays and collections to ensure exceptional plant health, aesthetic quality, and public presentation.
Working knowledge of budgeting principles, with the ability to manage resources responsibly and support departmental financial goals.
Ability to support staff growth and development through collaboration, mentorship, and career path support.
Physical ability to frequently lift, carry, or move materials weighing up to 50 pounds, with or without reasonable accommodation.
Ability and willingness to perform hands-on horticultural work in a variety of environmental conditions, including indoor and outdoor settings with exposure to heat, humidity, cold, wind, and rain.
Commitment to supporting and advancing the mission, values, and public-facing goals of Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens.

Nice To Haves

Experience with Iris BG plant collections database system is a plus.

Responsibilities

Oversees plant health care programs in coordination with Senior Horticulturists and external contractors.
Researches, develops, and shares plant knowledge, including identification and cultural care requirements.
Provides information related to plant accessions, removals, transfers, labeling, and signage, ensuring accuracy and quality control.
Determines and monitors optimal growing conditions within each biome in collaboration with horticulturists and adjusts climate control systems as needed.
Coordinates with department leadership and cross-functional teams on the design, installation, and removal of seasonal displays, exhibits, and permanent installations, including projects that impact the guest experience.
Manages horticulture employees, volunteers, and interns, including scheduling and assignment distribution.
Fosters a collaborative, team-oriented work environment that encourages communication and shared responsibility.
Works with contractors, artists, and vendors as needed to execute operational and horticultural plans.
Collaborates with the Associate Director of Horticulture Operations to develop and implement comprehensive, individualized training programs for staff.
Leads the interior conservatory volunteer program in partnership with the Volunteer Manager, including assessing needs, onboarding, training, mentoring, and supporting volunteers in horticultural practices.
Represents the Horticulture department at bi-weekly Operations Meetings or designates appropriate representation.
Participates in the development and management of the conservatory interior horticulture budget and maintains accurate records of expenditures.
Assesses staffing needs and collaborates with the Associate Director of Horticulture Operations and Human Resources to recruit, interview, and hire staff.
Manages inventory of tools, equipment, and supplies, including ordering and delivery, while adhering to budgetary guidelines.
Supports marketing and electronic media initiatives by developing content, highlighting plant collections, and participating in public outreach and media interviews.
Ensures proper use, care, and safety of equipment and compliance with state and federal regulations related to pesticide application, storage, disposal, and PPE use.
Identifies, addresses, and reports horticultural, operational, or safety concerns in a timely and appropriate manner.
Performs other duties as assigned while maintaining a strong focus on visitor experience and customer service.