Horticulturist

Posted Thursday, January 8, 2026 at 11:00 AM | Expires Friday, January 23, 2026 at 10:59 AM

San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance is a nonprofit international conservation leader, committed to inspiring a passion for nature and creating a world where all life thrives. Empowering people from around the globe to support our mission to conserve wildlife through innovation and partnerships, we support cutting‑edge conservation, and bring the stories of our work back to our two world‑famous front doors — the San Diego Zoo and San Diego Zoo Safari Park — giving millions of guests, in person and virtually, the opportunity to experience conservation in action.

The deep and extensive knowledge gained from more than a century of experience in wildlife care, health, veterinary services, nutrition and conservation makes us invaluable in the global effort to save species. Our team members play a crucial role in driving our conservation efforts forward and bringing us closer to a world where all life thrives.

The Horticulturist performs all job assignments with a positive attitude that supports San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance’s mission and vision of saving species worldwide by uniting our expertise in wildlife care and conservation science with our dedication to inspiring passion for nature. The Horticulturist under direction performs routine horticultural, grounds maintenance, and tree related work of assigned area; develops new area when necessary.

This position reports to a Lead/Supervisor. This class is distinguished from the next higher class, Senior Horticulturist, in that the Senior Horticulturist works under minimal supervision and its duties require more horticultural skills and knowledge. The Horticulturist class performs a wide range of standard duties under general supervision at the Zoo or Safari Park.

• Plant Cultivation and Care:
  
  • Plant and transplant various types of flora based on seasonal and environmental requirements.
  
  • Monitor plant growth and health, identifying biotic and abiotic disorders.
  
  • Implement appropriate fertilization, mulching and irrigation methods to ensure optimal plant development.
  
  • Prune, trim, and shape plants to encourage healthy growth and maintain desired aesthetics.
• Equipment Management and Safety:
  
  • Complete and adhere to required safety trainings
  
  • Effective communication with internal and external stakeholders
  
  • Operate and maintain horticultural equipment, such as lawnmowers, tractors, trimmers, and irrigation systems.
  
  • Ensure tools are cleaned, sharpened, and stored properly to prolong their lifespan.
  
  • Ensure vehicles are operated and maintained in alignment with Vehicle Code and Garage maintenance expectations.
• Soil Management and Improvement:
  
  • Conduct soil analysis to determine nutrient content, pH levels, and drainage capabilities.
  
  • Implement soil improvement strategies, such as composting, mulching, and aeration.
  
  • Recommend soil amendments and apply them as needed to optimize plant growth.
• Pest and Disease Control:
  
  • Monitor for pests and diseases, identifying early signs of infestation or infection.
  
  • Implement integrated pest management (IPM) techniques to minimize the use of chemical pesticides.
  
  • Apply appropriate pesticides or biological controls when necessary, following safety protocols and regulations.
• Environmental Conservation and Sustainability:
  
  • Promote environmentally friendly practices, such as water conservation, composting, and native plant preservation.
  
  • Educate staff, visitors, or clients on sustainable gardening techniques and the importance of biodiversity.
• Research, Record Keeping and Documentation:
  
  • Maintain detailed records of planting schedules, maintenance activities, and plant health assessments.
  
  • Create reports for management or clients on garden status, performance, and recommended improvements.

• Prior commercial plant care/landscape experience preferred

• A.A. in horticulture, botany, plant science, or other related degree preferred.
• Valid California Driver’s License Upon Hire required

Knowledge of:

• A variety of plants,…