Manager of Plant Records and Horticulture Programs

Lincoln Park Zoological Society•Chicago, IL

30d•Onsite

About The Position

The department of Animal Care and Horticulture at Lincoln Park Zoo is an integrated team responsible for the care of the zoo's animals and plants. This in-person position manages plant records and labeling, plant health care and integrated pest management planning, plant propagation, and the development of horticultural programming. The role involves close collaboration with the Director of Horticulture to execute special projects, develop programmatic components, assist with specialized plant collections, and site permanent plant materials. The position also requires hands-on garden work, oversight of horticultural operations projects and contractors, and assistance with seasonal after-hours events.

Requirements

Thorough knowledge of and ability to communicate and be understood in verbal and written business English, with an emphasis on public speaking.
Advanced skills in computer word processing, spread sheets and database software.
Advanced knowledge of plant identification and growing requirements.
Advanced Knowledge of appropriate gardening techniques and practices to promote plant health.
Knowledge in integrated pest management planning and implementation.
Knowledge in plant propagation techniques and practices.
Knowledge of proper handling and use on a variety of related tools, equipment and machinery.
Ability to train horticulture team members and volunteers in proper program practices and procedures.
Knowledge of interpretation techniques, and ability to create tour guides and lead tours effectively.
Ability to effect and enforce safe work practices.
Ability to respond calmly and productively in emergency situations be they human or animal.
Ability to understand and carry out oral and written directions.
Ability to organize tasks and time to ensure timely completion of all projects.
Ability to interact courteously and respectfully with supervisors, fellow employees, volunteers, zoo visitors and general public.
Ability to operate electric cart.
Associate’s degree in horticulture or related field, Bachelor's degree preferred.
Three years of practical experience in applied horticulture, database management preferred.
Must have proven knowledge of common landscape plants of the Midwest and plant ID skills.
Available to work weekends, holidays and evenings as needed and assigned.
Available to work special events that may occur outside of regular work schedule as assigned.
Available to assist with emergency and storm related horticulture events as needed, including potential to be called in on days that are scheduled off or during unscheduled hours.
Must have valid driver’s license with good driving record.
Excellent written and oral communication skills.
General working knowledge of small tools and equipment.
Ability to lift on a frequent basis up to 50 lbs.
Ability to remain on feet for long periods of time.
Ability to frequently bend, stoop, reach and climb.
Ability to safely and effectively utilize the program tools and equipment.
Ability to move about on sometimes slippery, muddy surfaces.
Ability to work in all weather conditions.
Ability to work on uneven terrain.
No allergy to plants or animals which may interfere with the ability to work.

Nice To Haves

Knowledge in plant database software (irisBG) or comparable database preferred.
Experience in a public garden setting preferred.
Supervisory experience also preferred.

Responsibilities

Manage the plant records, including the plant records database (irisBG), the manufacturing and installation of plant labels, and management of regular plant inventories, accession mapping, plant identification, plant toxicity evaluation list, and data validation.
Manage plant health care initiatives and plant quarantines under the direction of the Director of Horticulture, including indoor environmental data tracking, coordinating horticulture IPM program with Pest Control, scouting for insect infestations and exploring solutions to improve plant health across zoo gardens.
Manage plant propagation initiatives including propagule collection, sowing of seed, and asexual propagation.
Assist the Director of Horticulture in the development of specialized horticultural collections including sourcing and ordering of plant materials, and assisting in siting of permanent collection plants.
Assist in the development of programmatic components of the horticulture program, managing special projects as assigned including tours, classes, after-hours events, and phenology programs.
Assist the Director of Horticulture in programmatic information management, producing and maintaining various documents, files, and reports as requested.
Assist the Director of Horticulture in grant writing and donor cultivation as requested.
Collaborate with other departments at the zoo as a representative of the horticulture team.
Collaborate with external partners and seek new opportunities for professional partnerships in plant research, conservation, public horticulture, and/or community-based projects.
Assist the Director of Horticulture in preparation of annual horticulture budget.
Represent the zoo in meetings and interactions with current and potential donors, partners, and other stakeholders.
May be asked to present at zoo events or professional meetings and conferences.
Occasionally may be asked to develop and implement training for horticulture team and volunteers.
Supervise the Public Horticulture Intern and support other horticulture staff, assisting with potential research projects and interdepartmental collaboration.
Support horticultural operations in zoo gardens, occasionally overseeing operational projects and horticulture contractors.
Ensure cleanliness, order, and safety of working environment for oneself and those in and surrounding the work site.
Occasionally participate in operations horticulture, including: grooming, mulching, planting, pruning, watering, weeding and other horticultural care.
May use electric cart and/or hand truck to transport plants and supplies.
May use vehicle for zoo pick-ups and deliveries.
May be asked to direct volunteers and guests in a zoo emergency.
May be asked to participate in a Zoo Committee.
Perform other duties as assigned.

Benefits

Medical coverage (Blue Cross Blue Shield)
Dental coverage
Vision coverage
Life insurance
Disability coverage
403(b) savings plan with an institutional match
Free admission to many other Chicago cultural institutions
Free on-site parking
Discounts on event tickets, attractions, dining, and retail at the zoo
Quarterly staff mingle events
"LPZooU" training and educational sessions
Company contribution to Health Savings Account (Medical PPO only)
A working environment with green spaces and regularly available visits with wildlife!