Horticulturist

Horticulturist

The Toledo Zoo & Aquarium

Under direct supervision, responsible for the proper maintenance of various landscapes throughout the zoo. Installs and maintains plants in exhibits, prepares annual flower beds and landscapes, applies pesticides and fertilizers, oversees special projects using proper horticultural methods while considering conservation related programs. Reports to the Director of Plant Conservation. This position is an hourly non‑exempt position under the Fair Labor Standards Act and requires forty hours per the scheduled work week.

19.53 Hourly

• Maintains landscapes including timely pest control, watering, weeding, fertilizing and any other activity necessary for proper plant care and maintenance.
• Plans, prepares and plants annual flower beds, landscapes and turf areas for the Zoo. Maintains areas throughout the season including weeding, watering, pruning, mulching, fertilization, mowing and trimming, etc.
• Coordinates the propagation and purchase of annuals, perennials, tropical plants, and woody plants for seasonal and permanent displays and to maintain and add to plant collections. Keeps appropriate records.
• Provides training and direct supervision of seasonal employees, which involves instructing, assigning, reviewing and planning the work of others.
• Responsible for the application of pesticides and the keeping of proper records. Controls invasive plants.
• Assists in the preparation and processing of departmental records and reports.
• Maintains water features and fountains as required.
• Performs spring/fall clean‑up as well as snow removal/salt application per the snow removal plan.
• Supports the composting operation to EPA requirements including the transportation of yard waste to the compost center and other facilities.
• Assists with coordination, planning, design, purchasing, installation, maintenance, removal, and storage of more than 1,000,000 lights for the annual “Lights Before Christmas” light show. Supervises evening shift part‑time and seasonal employees.
• Communicates and interacts effectively with other departmental personnel and volunteers. Conducts/assists with educational programs and tours as requested.
• Manages IPM (Integrated Pest Management).
• Propagates plants required for browse programs. Assists with the harvest/distribution of browse as needed.
• Operates manual and automatic irrigation systems.
• Selects plant materials in landscape areas while giving consideration to all horticultural requirements and native plants that are conducive to the objectives of the project.
• Solves problems and takes action to correct any deficiencies in assigned areas.
• Assists with fuel acquisition for equipment used in horticulture.
• Plans and provides support for various departments such as Development, Marketing, Visitors Services, and Education events and programs such as the Zoo To Do, Pumpkin Path, Zoo Snooze, Weddings.
• Moves all stored horticulture materials and equipment to and from storage. Cleans and recycles growing containers.
• Provides input to Department of Facilities and Planning with plan, design, and implanting new exhibits, buildings, landscapes and facilities with zoo architectural consultants.
• Submits horticulture articles for publications, produces educational materials such as horticulture guides, plant labels, etc.

• Associates Degree in Horticulture or related field and three years of horticulture/greenhouse facility experience or an equivalent combination of education and experience that provides the required knowledge, skills and abilities.
• Horticulture supervisory experience preferred.
• Must be 21+ years old.
• Must possess or obtain Ohio Pesticide Applicators license.
• Must possess a valid driver's license and be insurable by the fleet insurance carrier.

The Toledo Zoo is a drug‑free workplace, including marijuana.

The Toledo Zoo is an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, creed, genetic information, sex, age, national origin, disability, military status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by law.