Browse Horticulturist - Seasonal - San Diego Zoo Safari Park

San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance•Escondido, CA

21h•$31 - $31•Onsite

About The Position

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. 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.

Requirements

Prior commercial plant care/landscape experience preferred
A.A. in horticulture, botany, plant science, or other related degree preferred.
Valid California Driver’s License Upon Hire required
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

Responsibilities

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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.