Manager, Horticulture
About The Position
South Coast Botanic Garden’s mission is to connect ALL to the wonders of nature and create offbeat experiences that inspire stewardship and sustainability. The 87-acre destination is an oasis of curated gardens and natural landscapes built atop a reclaimed landfill—serving as a powerful example of environmental renewal. From the Dorothy and John Bohannon Rose Garden to the Living Wall and immersive seasonal exhibits, the Garden offers guests unique opportunities to engage with nature through art, science, and wellness. With continued growth and exciting new developments ahead, this is an exciting time to join a dynamic and evolving organization. South Coast Botanic Garden fosters a workplace culture where strategic focus and cultural health go hand in hand. Team members are collaborative, adaptable, and committed to supporting the Garden’s mission and guest experience. Position Summary The Manager, Horticulture is responsible for the day-to-day leadership and operational oversight of the Garden’s horticulture team and living collections. This is a working manager role, balancing hands-on horticultural work with team leadership, planning, and cross-functional collaboration. This position plays a critical role in maintaining high standards of plant care, landscape presentation, and guest experience across permanent collections and seasonal exhibition spaces. This role works primarily outdoors and requires availability for early mornings, weekends, some evenings, and holidays in varying weather conditions.
Requirements
- High school diploma or equivalent required; Associate’s degree in Horticulture or related field preferred
- Valid California driver’s license and ability to safely operate Garden vehicles, with or without reasonable accommodation
- Three or more years of experience in public gardens or similar environments
- Experience leading or supervising staff or volunteers strongly preferred
- Ability to work early mornings, evenings, weekends, and holidays
- Strong leadership and team development skills
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
- Ability to work independently while following established procedures and priorities
- Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities
- Attention to detail while maintaining focus on overall mission and goals
- Intermediate proficiency in Microsoft Office and Google Workspace
- Curiosity, enthusiasm for nature, and passion for sharing knowledge
- Ability to stand, walk, and work outdoors for extended periods
- Ability to lift up to 50 pounds
- Ability to work in varying weather conditions
- Ability to safely operate vehicles and equipment
Responsibilities
- Staff Leadership & Team Development Lead, mentor, and develop Horticulture Specialists and Leads, fostering a high-performing and accountable team
- Provide clear expectations, coaching, and ongoing performance feedback
- Support recruiting, onboarding, training, and evaluation of staff
- Promote a collaborative, safety-focused team culture aligned with SCBG values
- Ensure staff are properly trained in horticultural practices and equipment use
- Horticulture Operations & Living Collections Oversee daily horticulture operations across all landscape zones and exhibition areas
- Conduct regular inspections to monitor plant health, irrigation systems, and landscape conditions
- Identify and resolve horticultural and safety concerns proactively
- Support planning and execution of plant rotations, seasonal displays, and installations
- Assist with nursery operations, seasonal installations, and special projects
- Planning, Coordination & Communication Collaborate with the Director of Living Collections on priorities, planning, and process improvements
- Partner with LA County Parks & Recreation to coordinate work across shared spaces
- Participate in organization-wide planning and project meetings
- Communicate priorities, updates, and expectations clearly to team members
- Operations, Collaboration & Guest Experience Collaborate cross-functionally with internal teams to support programs, events, and exhibits
- Provide horticultural expertise to enhance guest experience and programming
- Oversee inventory, ordering, and maintenance of tools, equipment, and supplies
- Ensure safe use and care of equipment by staff and volunteers
- Interact with guests, providing information and enhancing the visitor experience
- Model and enforce safe work practices at all times
- Operate Garden vehicles in accordance with safety guidelines
- Perform other duties as assigned
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Manager
Education Level
Associate degree
