Horticulture Assistant

Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens•Buffalo, NY

2d•$16 - $17

About The Position

As a Horticulture Assistant , you’ll work alongside our incredible Horticulture team and a dedicated group of volunteers to care for, maintain , and enhance our indoor and outdoor plant collections. From lush tropicals to eye-catching seasonal exhibits, you’ll help create beautiful, inspiring garden spaces that spark WOW, WONDER, and WELCOME for every visitor. This role is ideal for someone who’s passionate about mission-driven, community-centered horticulture and enjoys working as part of a collaborative, energetic team.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent required
At least 1 year of professional gardening or landscaping experience
Basic gardening skills and a willingness to learn and grow
Someone that likes a flexible schedule that will include weekends, holidays and some evenings.
A passion for plants and people
Enthusiastic, self-motivated, reliable, and team-oriented
Positive attitude and genuine excitement for the Gardens’ mission
Basic computer skills (Microsoft applications and workflow software)
Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and work in all weather conditions
Comfortable working long periods in non-air-conditioned greenhouses and outdoors
Ability to safely operate garden and grounds equipment

Nice To Haves

Experience working with or leading volunteers is a plus

Responsibilities

Provide expert care using proper horticultural techniques for tropical plants, trees, shrubs, and seasonal exhibit plants.
Collaborate with the Horticulture team and volunteers to maintain and enhance plant collections and display gardens inside and outside.
Follow planting and maintenance schedules including watering, fertilizing, seeding, propagating, transplanting, re-potting, weeding, mulching, raking, planting, sweeping, and general garden care
Maintain high standards of cleanliness to ensure a healthy, thriving plant collection
Assist with planning, set-up, and breakdown of horticulture exhibits and events
Ensure plants are properly labeled and all spaces are tidy and safe
Serve as a friendly, knowledgeable representative of the Botanical Gardens
Build positive relationships with visitors, volunteers, vendors, and partners
Lead by example to ensure every guest has an excellent experience from arrival to departure
Work hands-on with your team and volunteers daily
Help to coordinate volunteer tasks with the Horticulturist, Collections Manager, Volunteer Coordinator, and Horticulture Coordinator
Support positive volunteer engagement and create a welcoming, inclusive experience
Assist with special events , exhibitions, and seasonal programming as needed