Conservatory Manager

Career Opportunities with Franklin Park Conservatory

Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens offers world‑class horticulture, art & nature‑based exhibitions and educational programs. The 13‑acre indoor and outdoor facility—situated two miles from downtown Columbus—features glasshouses including the historic John

F. Wolfe Palm House; botanical gardens including the Scotts Miracle‑Gro Foundation Children’s Garden and Scotts Miracle‑Gro‑Foundation Community Garden Campus; and event venues. The Conservatory is home to the largest collection of Chihuly glass in a botanical garden and Light Raiment II by internationally renowned artist James Turrell. Committed to the community, the Conservatory strives to provide an accessible and welcoming experience to all.

As a premier botanical garden destination, we connect people to nature and create life‑enhancing experiences.

Envision a world that celebrates nature as essential to the human experience.

The Conservatory Manager is a key member of the Horticulture team and is responsible for the care, health, and long‑term stewardship of the Conservatory’s interior living plant collections; for the leadership, training, mentorship, and development of horticulture staff; and for the operation of the Conservatory’s climate control systems. This role ensures best horticultural practices are consistently applied, oversees daily growing conditions including temperature, humidity, light, and ventilation, and works closely with engineering staff to maintain safe and reliable operations.

The Manager also manages and/or assists with North Star Master Plan projects and initiatives as assigned.

The Conservatory Manager collaborates with the Production Greenhouse Manager and plant collections team to coordinate plant production in support of the Conservatory’s interior collections, including propagation planning, space assignments, acclimation processes, and integrated pest management practices. In partnership with the Associate Director of Horticulture and other department managers, this role leads horticultural project planning, supports cross‑departmental coordination, and fosters staff training, mentorship, and team building while upholding the mission and values of Franklin Park Conservatory.

This is a full‑time exempt position based in Columbus, Ohio. This position is eligible for the Conservatory's benefit package offered to full‑time employees, which includes medical, dental and vision insurance, company paid Life/AD&D/Short‑Term and Long‑Term Disability insurance, participation in the Ohio Public Employees Retirement Program (OPERS), optional 457(b) Deferred Compensation plan, generous Paid Time Off (PTO), and complimentary membership to the Conservatory.

$56,000 - $59,000 annual salary.

Oversees plant health care programs in coordination with Senior Horticulturists and external contractors.

Researches, develops, and shares plant knowledge, including identification and cultural care requirements.

Provides information related to plant accessions, removals, transfers, labeling, and signage, ensuring accuracy and quality control.

Determines and monitors optimal growing conditions within each biome in collaboration with horticulturists and adjusts climate control systems as needed.

Coordinates with department leadership and cross‑functional teams on the design, installation, and removal of seasonal displays, exhibits, and permanent installations, including projects that impact the guest experience.

Manages hortic employees, volunteers, and interns, including scheduling and assignment distribution.

Fosters a collaborative, team‑oriented work environment that encourages communication and shared responsibility.

Works with contractors, artists, and vendors as needed to execute operational and horticultural plans.

Collaborates with the Associate Director of Horticulture Operations to develop and implement comprehensive, individualized training programs for staff.

Leads the interior conservatory volunteer program in partnership with the…