Horticulturist

About the Position

The Horticulturist has primary responsibility for the care and maintenance of inspiring planting displays in their assigned area. This includes performing skilled horticultural work in outdoor gardens, containers, and supporting seasonal displays. The Horticulturist works under the direction of senior horticulture staff and collaborates with team members, interns, and volunteers to maintain Mt. Cuba Center's gardens to the highest horticultural standards.

Essential Functions of the Role

The following outlines key responsibilities of the role:

Gardens Care & Maintenance

• Monitor and maintain the health and care of living plant collections by performing a variety of horticultural maintenance activities including, but not limited to, site/soil preparation, planting, transplanting, mulching, weeding, watering, fertilizing, monitoring for pests and disease, herbicide/pesticide applications, pruning and hedging.
• Execute day-to-day horticultural tasks following direction from senior horticulture staff to ensure best practices are carried out to the highest horticultural standards.
• Develop horticultural skills and knowledge to effectively maintain assigned areas.
• Maintain well-groomed and safe garden pathways that are free from debris, including snow/ice removal as needed.

Support for Guest & Organizational Programs

• Work alongside volunteers in horticultural projects, supporting engagement and the overall guest experience.
• Provide horticultural support for public-facing opportunities such as tours and special events.

Horticultural Planning & Documentation

• Maintain accurate records of plant collections and ensure compliance with the Living Collection Policy.
• Collaborate with senior horticulture staff on seasonal planning and implementation.
• Support the development and execution of garden designs and renovations.

Education and Experience

Certificate in horticulture from a recognized program or associate degree in horticulture or plant science from an accredited college or university and 2+ years' experience working in a garden or landscape setting, or equivalent experience.

Qualifications and Skills

• Knowledge of plants, including identification, growth and cultural characteristics, and pest/disease/weed management.
• Proficiency in gardening techniques such as planting, pruning, hedging, mulching, and weeding.
• Self-motivated, organized, attentive to details and able to manage time effectively.
• Ability to work collaboratively as part of a team and follow direction from senior staff.
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to effectively communicate with staff, volunteers, and the public.
• Proficiency with technology and computers and various software platforms.
• Ability to safely and effectively operate and maintain a wide range of hand tools, power tools, vehicles and equipment.
• Willingness to work outdoors in a variety of weather conditions.
• Ability and willingness to work flexible hours including evenings, weekends, holidays, and special events.

About the Role: Compensation, Benefits, and Perks

• Salary commensurate with experience with a starting range of $20.00 - $23.00 per hour.
• Non-Exempt, full-time position, fully on-site.
• Generally, regular hours are: Monday-Friday, 7:00 AM to 3:00 PM with occasional evenings, weekends and early mornings depending on events.
• Candidates must have unrestricted work authorization in the U.S.
• Benefits include medical and 100% employer-paid dental & vision insurance, 401(k) with up to 8% employer contribution, 4 weeks PTO per year to start, free garden admission, and professional development opportunities.

Application and Hiring Process

To apply, please submit:

• Resume
• Responses to our application questions

Interview Process:

• Application Review
• Preferred Candidate Screening Questionnaire
• Video screen with HR
• Virtual Interview
• Final In-Person Interview with an On-Site Garden Tour

Timing:

• Application review begins September 28th on a rolling basis, with the posting closing at/or around October 5th. We recommend that interested applicants submit their applications prior to that date.
• Mt. Cuba is targeting a start date for the final candidate in early December 2026.
• All candidates will receive a status update via email after their application has been reviewed.

Commitment to Diversity: Mt. Cuba Center is committed to diversity and inclusivity. We encourage qualified candidates from all cultures and communities to apply. For accommodations or assistance, please email careers[a]mtcubacenter.org.