Science Technology Conservatory Manager
About The Position
The Science Technology Conservatory Manager leads the creation, installation, and long-term care of dynamic botanical science exhibits within the Rose Hills Conservatory. This role blends environmental science expertise and public engagement to develop living plant collections as immersive, hands-on exhibits that inspire families to appreciate and practice plant science. The Manager ensures that all exhibits reflect the highest standards of scientific integrity and educational effectiveness. Working collaboratively with Huntington staff, outside advisors, and specialized vendors, the Manager helps shape meaningful, accessible, and innovative science experiences for a diverse public audience. In addition to exhibit oversite of public facing facilities the manager will oversee day-to-day operations of the conservatory Through innovative living exhibits and thoughtful stewardship of botanical collections, the Science Technology Conservatory Manager plays a vital role in advancing plant science literacy, environmental awareness, and hands-on learning for families and visitors of all ages. S/he/they will demonstrate a background of working directly with people from diverse racial, ethnic, geographic and socioeconomic backgrounds, using a welcoming, inclusive, and accessible approach.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Science, Plant Biology, Horticulture, Ecology, or related field (Master’s preferred).
- Strong background in environmental science and public-facing biology.
- Demonstrated experience developing science-based exhibits or educational programming.
- Minimum 5 years supervisory experience
- Knowledge of environmental control systems and plant care technologies.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
- Scientific rigor and interpretive clarity
- Strategic project management
- Leadership and team development
- Cross-functional collaboration
- Public engagement and science communication
- Operational excellence and attention to detail
Nice To Haves
- Experience working in a museum, botanical garden, or informal science education environment.
- Familiarity with interactive exhibit design and visitor engagement strategies.
- Experience managing budgets and vendor contracts.
Responsibilities
- Exhibit Development & Scientific Leadership Design, implement, maintain and repair living botanical exhibits that communicate core principles of environmental science, plant biology, and sustainability.
- Translate complex scientific concepts into engaging, family-friendly, hands-on learning experiences.
- Ensure exhibits are accurate, current, and aligned with institutional mission and interpretive goals.
- Evaluate exhibit effectiveness and make data-informed improvements.
- Conservatory Operations & Plant Collection Management Ensure the Conservatory is prepared and safe for daily visitors.
- Coordinate exhibit installations, seasonal rotations, and maintenance schedules.
- Monitor environmental systems and collaborate on conservatory technology enhancements.
- Collaboration & External Partnerships Partner with cross-departmental Huntington staff including botanical, education, facilities, and communications teams.
- Consult with scientific advisors, educators, designers, and external vendors to maintain high-quality exhibit standards.
- Manage vendor relationships, contracts, and project timelines related to exhibit fabrication and technology systems.
- Staff Supervision & Leadership Supervise conservatory technicians and on-call staff.
- Provide training in exhibit maintenance, visitor engagement, and safety protocols.
- Foster a collaborative, professional, and inclusive team culture.
- Develop staffing schedules and oversee performance management.
- Visitor Experience & Safety Maintain a safe, welcoming, and professional environment for visitors, staff, and volunteers.
- Ensure compliance with safety standards and public-facing operational policies.
- Support staff in delivering exceptional visitor engagement experiences grounded in public-facing biology and environmental literacy.
- May perform other related duties as assigned
Benefits
- Medical, Dental, Vision
- 403(b) retirement plan and matching retirement plan with an outstanding employer match
- Hybrid remote work schedule available for applicable positions
- Considerable paid time off, including annual leave, sick leave, and holidays
- Discounts for staff in The Huntington Store and restaurants
- Free admission to various museums and cultural institutions
- Free passes each month to welcome family and friends to visit the grounds
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Manager
