Horticulture Director

Charlotte, North Carolina, Position Number: 002730 Department: College of Science (Col) Employment Type: Permanent - Full-time Months Per Year: 12 Essential Duties and Responsibilities: Develop and implement plans associated with the daily, seasonal, and annual management of outdoor horticultural displays, collections, and natural areas. Provide hands-on support for all operations. Effectively manage, deploy, and assist the horticulture team, which includes volunteers and student workers as well as full- and part-time employees. Provide a safe environment for staff and visitors. Provide input into all aspects of the planning and operations of the UNC Charlotte Botanical Gardens. Directly or indirectly supervise horticulturists, temporary staff, student workers, and volunteers who care for the outdoor gardens. Institute best horticultural practices to optimize plant health (water management, including automated irrigation, fertilization, pest identification and control, etc.) while balancing these practices with responsible environmental stewardship. Direct and participate in the planning, design, and implementation of routine maintenance activities, as well as diverse special projects. Special projects may include such tasks as securing outside contractors for special jobs, Acquisition of specialized materials and supplies, training and supervision of staff and students, and evaluating and reporting on the outcomes of these many tasks. Establish and meet completion schedules for garden projects; supervise on-site contractors for safety and quality control. Participate in community outreach, including but not limited to: plant sales, garden tours, classes, and media interviews (radio, podcasts, TV). Partner with the administrative team for donor cultivation, stewardship events, and community networking. Maintain professional relationships across the campus and resolve issues with a solution-oriented mindset. Minimum Experience / Education: Bachelor's degree in horticultural science, with at least three years of applied horticulture experience and one year of supervisory experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Preferred Education Skills and Experience: Extensive experience: eight or more years in the horticultural or botanical industry, with four years of supervisory experience Must have skills in proper horticultural practices, including plant installation, irrigation, fertilization, maintenance, and propagation. Must have working knowledge (including routine use of scientific names) of native and cultivated plants that can be grown in this region of the Southeast. Must be able to carry out these tasks in all weather conditions. The ability to identify common pests, diseases, and deficiencies and know how to take action early to combat problems. The ability to communicate clearly through both written and verbal means while maintaining a professional manner and calm demeanor. Fosters strong team dynamics through respectful collaboration, positive interactions, and effective communication with coworkers, volunteers, and visitors. Knowledge of basic computer programs such as Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.