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Botanic Garden Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Adhere to the policies of the Horticulture department and Brooklyn Botanic Garden. * Keep records, including timely submission of plant inventory control reports and label requests; keep a logbook of ...

Gardener

Washington, DC · On-site

$26.74/hr

Botanic Garden (USBG). The USBG is a public garden in the legislative branch and was established by Congress in 1820. The Garden inspires people to appreciate, study, and conserve plants to enrich ...

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Botanic Garden information

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$33.5K

$106.6K

$181K

How much do botanic garden jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for botanic garden in the United States is $106,639.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $75,000.00 and $132,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What degree do I need to work in a botanic garden?

A degree in botany, horticulture, plant science, environmental science, or a related field is typically required for many positions in a botanic garden. Relevant skills include knowledge of plant identification, cultivation, and conservation, and some roles may require additional certifications or experience in garden management or education.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the botanic garden position, and why are they important?

To thrive in a botanic garden role, you typically need a background in horticulture, botany, or environmental science, along with hands-on experience in plant care and landscape management. Familiarity with horticultural tools, greenhouse systems, and sometimes specialized certifications such as pesticide application or arboriculture are valuable. Strong organizational skills, teamwork, public communication, and a passion for environmental education make individuals stand out. These skills are crucial for maintaining plant collections, supporting educational programs, and ensuring a high-quality visitor experience.

What are the typical daily responsibilities for someone working at a botanic garden?

Daily responsibilities at a botanic garden often include caring for a wide variety of plants, maintaining garden beds and greenhouses, monitoring plant health, and assisting with pest control or irrigation systems. Staff may also participate in educational programs, lead tours, or contribute to plant research and conservation efforts. Collaboration with other horticulturists, educators, and volunteers is common, creating a dynamic and engaging work environment. This range of tasks allows you to apply both practical and scientific skills while sharing your passion for plants with the public.

What is a botanic garden?

A Botanic Garden job involves the care, maintenance, and scientific study of plants within a botanical garden. Roles can vary from horticulturists and garden curators to educators and researchers, all working to conserve plant species and educate the public. Employees may be responsible for plant propagation, landscaping, pest management, research, or organizing educational programs. The goal is to support biodiversity, sustainability, and environmental awareness through well-maintained gardens and collections.

More about Botanic Garden jobs
What cities are hiring for Botanic Garden jobs? Cities with the most Botanic Garden job openings:
What states have the most Botanic Garden jobs? States with the most job openings for Botanic Garden jobs include:
Infographic showing various Botanic Garden job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $106,639 per year, or $51.3 per hour.

Temporary Gardener

Brooklyn Botanic Garden

Brooklyn, NY • On-site

$28/hr

Temporary

PTO

Re-posted 19 days ago


Job description

Position Title: Temporary Gardener
Department: Horticulture
Reports to: Manager of Horticulture & Conservatory Foreperson
Compensation: $28 per hour
Schedule: Monday–Friday; this is a temporary position expected to start November 2026 and extend through August 2027.
FLSA Status: Full-time, Temporary, Non-Exempt


Position Description:

The temporary gardener for the Orchid and Aquatic House performs gardening and related work under the guidance of the director of Horticulture and general supervision of the Conservatory foreperson.


Responsibilities:

  • Perform all aspects of horticulture both on the grounds and in the Conservatory, including planting, cultivating, watering, fertilizing, pruning, weeding, mulching, and caring for trees, flowers, shrubs, and other plants.
  • Inspect collections to identify pest problems and treat such problems using integrated pest management (IPM) techniques.
  • Supervise assigned subordinate employees, including temporary workers and volunteers, instructing them in gardening techniques and in the proper use and care of materials and equipment.
  • Adhere to the policies of the Horticulture department and Brooklyn Botanic Garden.
  • Keep records, including timely submission of plant inventory control reports and label requests; keep a logbook of plant collections and job-related activities; submit quarterly reports to director of Horticulture.
  • As directed, perform various tasks for general grounds and Conservatory care and Brooklyn Botanic Garden events.
  • Perform other related duties or special projects as directed.

Qualifications:

  • Two years’ college study and/or associate’s degree in the field of horticulture; or

three years’ full-time, paid experience in maintenance of trees, shrubs, herbaceous plants, with a preference for conservatory plants and orchids; or satisfactory equivalent combination of education and experience

  • Holds and maintains a valid driver’s license
  • Ability to pass a physical examination by a doctor, verifying fitness to perform job functions
  • Ability to pass written examination and/or practical test
  • Ability to obtain and maintain pesticide apprentice certification
  • Preferred: Basic understanding of greenhouse and nursery mechanical systems
  • Preferred: Knowledge of indoor living collections, curation, and plant recording
  • Preferred: Experience with outdoor container gardening and indoor plant displays


Benefits:

  • BBG offers certain benefits to part-time employees including:
    • NYC Protected Time-Off: up to 56 hours of paid leave and 32 hours of unpaid leave
    • Short-term disability/New York Paid Family Leave
  • As a 501(c)3, BBG is a Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) Eligible Employer
  • Museum Pass, which provides employees the opportunity to enter many museums in New York City for free
  • Free Garden admission for employee plus one guest
  • Employee discount at BBG’s retail shop and food venues

To be considered for this position, please submit an application by clicking Apply below.  Applications submitted without a résumé and cover letter will not be considered.


No telephone calls for position inquiries, please. Applicants with disabilities who need assistance with the online system, or who may require a reasonable accommodation during the application process, should contact Human Resources at hr@bbg.org. 


Brooklyn Botanic Garden is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer.