Horticulturist
Location
San Diego, California, United States
Work type
Onsite
Employment
Full Time
Experience
2-2 years
Compensation
$64.8K - $64.8K per year
Posted
3d ago
Summary and responsibilities
Role overview
Summary
The Horticulturist at San Diego Zoo Safari Park performs routine horticultural, grounds maintenance, and tree-related work, including plant cultivation, soil management, and pest control. This role supports the organization's mission of saving species worldwide through dedicated wildlife care and conservation efforts.
The Horticulturist supports San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance’s mission of saving species worldwide by performing routine horticultural, grounds maintenance, and tree-related work at the Zoo or Safari Park under the direction of a Lead or Supervisor. The position is responsible for planting and transplanting a variety of plants according to seasonal and environmental requirements, monitoring plant growth and health, identifying biotic and abiotic disorders, and applying appropriate fertilization, mulching, and irrigation methods. Duties include pruning, trimming, and shaping plants to promote healthy growth and maintain desired aesthetics, managing soils and substrates, conducting soil analysis, improving soil through composting, mulching, and aeration, and recommending or applying appropriate soil amendments. The Horticulturist monitors plants for pests and diseases, identifies early signs of infestation or infection, and uses integrated pest management practices while applying pesticides or biological controls when necessary in accordance with safety protocols and regulations. The position promotes sustainable horticultural practices such as water conservation, composting, and native plant preservation and may educate staff, visitors, or clients on sustainable gardening and biodiversity.
The Horticulturist will operate and maintain horticultural equipment including lawnmowers, tractors, trimmers, irrigation systems, power machinery, and other industry tools, ensuring equipment is cleaned, sharpened, stored, and maintained properly. Vehicles must be operated and maintained according to Vehicle Code and Garage maintenance requirements. The employee must complete required safety training and communicate effectively with internal and external stakeholders. Responsibilities also include maintaining accurate records of planting schedules, maintenance activities, plant health assessments, and other horticultural work, as well as preparing reports and recommendations regarding garden or landscape conditions. The position may research plant species and provide specialized care for plant collections.
Two years of experience in landscaping, horticulture, botanical gardens, community gardens, commercial plant care, or a related field is highly preferred. An A.A. degree in horticulture, botany, plant science, or a related field is preferred, and a valid California Driver’s License is required upon hire. Candidates should have knowledge of plant materials and growth principles, horticultural soil conditions and preparation, fertilizer and insecticide application methods and precautions, tree maintenance and removal practices, proper watering techniques, work safety, and customer relations. The ability to troubleshoot basic irrigation problems, manage soils and plants in professional landscapes, maintain accurate records, research plants, safely operate industry tools and power machinery, and communicate and work effectively with others is essential.
Updated 3d ago
Candidate fit
Skills and qualifications
Additional skills
Experience
2-2 years
Certifications
How this role is positioned
Role classification
Job domains
Industries
Employment
Full Time
Contract duration
Permanent
Hiring type
Direct
Global hiring
Location specific
Offer details
Compensation and benefits
Compensation
$64.8K - $64.8K per year
Location, schedule, and role shape
Work setup
Work conditions
Bandwidth profile
Context on the employer
Company snapshot
Company
San Diego Zoo Safari Park
Team size
Growing team
Location
San Diego, California, United States
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.
Popular Domains
Explore opportunities across specialized functional areas.
Trending Industries
Discover roles in the world's most innovative sectors.
Horticulturist
San Diego, California, United States • Full Time