Horticulture Technician

Indianapolis Zoo • Indianapolis, IN

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About The Position

The Horticulture Technician cares for, maintains, and presents plant collections throughout the Indianapolis Zoo, including White River Gardens and the Hilbert Conservatory. Working with the Horticulture team, this hands-on role supports healthy landscapes, conservation efforts, guest experiences, and Zoo operations. The position involves working outdoors with plants and equipment and collaborating with a team. It is a full-time, 40-hour-per-week position that requires availability for weekends, holidays, and overtime as needed.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution, preferably in horticulture, forestry, life sciences, or a related field.
• At least one year of related horticulture, landscaping, or grounds experience.
• Valid driver's license and ability to operate Zoo vehicles as needed.
• Strong communication skills and a team-oriented attitude.
• Ability to work independently, identify problems, and make sound decisions.
• Comfort working near animals and in animal-adjacent environments.
• Ability to work outdoors in varied conditions, including heat, cold, rain, snow, wind, and high humidity.
• Ability to perform physically demanding work, including lifting, moving, transporting, and positioning materials and equipment.
• Ability to safely navigate ladders, steps, uneven terrain, and other outdoor environments.
• Ability to obtain required certifications, including pesticide applicator, chainsaw, and skid steer/Bobcat certifications, as needed.
• Availability for a 40-hour workweek, including some weekends and holidays based on operational needs.

Nice To Haves

• Strong plant identification skills.
• Experience with irrigation systems, power equipment, and/or machinery.

Responsibilities

• Perform daily horticultural tasks, including watering, weeding, mowing, trimming, mulching, planting, and soil preparation.
• Monitor plant health and identify pests, diseases, and other concerns.
• Identify plants and maintain knowledge of the Zoo's plant collections.
• Collect and prepare browse for animal departments as needed.
• Support conservation programs, public tours, chats, and educational interactions as requested.
• Work collaboratively with coworkers, volunteers, vendors, and other Zoo departments.
• Follow Zoo safety procedures, PPE requirements, emergency procedures, and chemical-handling guidelines.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time