Job Summary:
Develops, implements and manages the South Carolina Aquarium’s horticultural projects including internal exhibits, external exhibits, off-site nursery and other plant displays.
Essential Functions:
- Adhere to South Carolina Aquarium policies and procedures.
- Demonstrate a love of working with South Carolina native plants.
- Assist Curator in developing the horticulture program for the South Carolina Aquarium.
- Oversee the daily care and aesthetics of all plant displays including all aspects of plant culture, rotation of plant material, management of animal interaction with plant material, etc.
- Participate in research, design, modification and development of new exhibits/systems at the SCA and nursery.
- Establish and cultivate relationships with local and regional plant resources.
- Acquires and/or propagates all Aquarium plant material.
- Manage off-site nursery facilities.
- Develop and maintain off exhibit plant propagation and holding area (nursery) through normal nursery practices.
- Maintain accurate records and reports.
- Develop, execute and provide knowledge and expertise for field projects involving the use of existing or installed native plant material for habitat reclamation and enhancement.
- Liaison with the City of Charleston for horticultural activities on National Park Service property adjacent to the Aquarium.
- Helps develop and maintain budget for horticultural needs.
- Manage the pest management program for SCA.
- Assist with special projects as requested by the Curator.
- Provide coverage for other animal care positions as required.
- Be flexible with work schedule, being able to work weekends, holidays and evenings.
- Work unsupervised and make decisions consistent with the team philosophy.
- Train and supervise horticulture volunteers and interns, providing mentorship and support for the Aquarium’s internship program.
- Adhere to all South Carolina Aquarium policies and procedures.
- Assist aquarium staff and visitors as needed in a pleasant, professional and courteous manner.
Other Duties and Responsibilities:
- Support the mission by participating in Aquarium sponsored programs and events on a regular basis.
- Maintain inventory of supplies and equipment used in horticultural operations.
- Cross-train in other areas of animal care.
- Respond to visitor and telephone inquiries.
- Keep abreast with current related literature.
- Attend and makes presentations to professional conferences and meetings.
- Participate in cross-functional activities like conducting tours, educational programs, member programs, committees, etc.
- Work with and supervise outside contractors.
- Liaison with the owners of nursery location.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
- Strong knowledge of the practices and principles of horticulture in a botanical garden setting and in botanical/zoological mixed species exhibits.
- Knowledge of the flora and fauna of the Southeastern U.S., especially as it pertains to South Carolina native plant communities.
- Skilled in all aspects of plant culture including watering, fertilization, pruning, pest management, plant propagation, etc.
- Good organizational, communication and interpersonal skills.
- Knowledge of organic/natural pesticide and fungicide control.
Education and Experience Required:
- Bachelor’s degree in Horticulture, Botany or related field, or the equivalent to a degree in experience
- Minimum of three years' experience in a related field
Licenses & Certifications Required:
- Valid Driver’s License
- South Carolina pesticide license (or ability to acquire)
Supervision of Others:
- Horticulture and other Animal Care volunteers
- Interns
Physical Requirements:
Requires average walking, standing, bending, stooping, and crouching, climbing ladders, sitting, kneeling, balancing, pushing and pulling, crawling, working with tools, computer tasks and phone usage; should be able to lift/carry at least 50 lbs.; requires driving Aquarium vehicles.
Hazardous Requirements:
Average exposure to minor or severe cuts; falls; falling objects; hazards to eyesight, hearing and sense of smell; and tight spaces. Often requires use of personal protective equipment due to exposure to chemicals, hazardous materials, ozone, and handling of animals.
Working Conditions:
This position requires works in both an office environment and outdoors, sometimes in extreme weather including both hot and cold; requires weekend and late-night work as needed; requires contact with customers, the general public, and outside vendors; requires carrying a cell phone and radio; requires occasional travel.
