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Botany Jobs in Goodyear, AZ (NOW HIRING)

SENIOR HORTICULTURIST

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$23.70 - $27.44/hr

Bachelor's degree in Horticulture, Agriculture, Botany, or equivalent degree or experience/knowledge, or combination of experience with a technical certificate preferred. * Knowledge or experience ...

Requires a basic knowledge of botany, knowledge of perishability and seasonality of products, proper product conditioning and handling, and safety and sanitation procedures. * Requires strong ...

Botany information

See Goodyear, AZ salary details

$30.8K

$50.1K

$87.9K

How much do botany jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for botany in Goodyear, AZ is $50,112.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $36,600.00 and $67,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a botanist do?

Botanists are scientists who study plants, including their structure, properties, and biochemical processes. They may work in a variety of fields such as agriculture, conservation, environmental consulting, or education. Their work often involves researching plant growth, genetics, diseases, and interactions with the environment. Botanists play a crucial role in improving crop yields, conserving endangered plant species, and understanding ecosystems. They may also contribute to developing new medicines, biofuels, and other plant-based products.

What are some common challenges botanists face when conducting fieldwork, and how can these be managed?

Botanists often encounter challenges during fieldwork such as adverse weather conditions, difficult terrain, and the need to access remote or protected areas. Additionally, accurate identification and collection of plant specimens can be complicated by seasonal variations or environmental changes. To manage these challenges, botanists typically plan field trips carefully, ensure they have appropriate permits, use specialized equipment, and collaborate closely with local experts or conservation authorities. Flexibility and adaptability are key skills for overcoming unexpected obstacles in the field.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a botanist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Botanist, you need a solid background in plant biology, ecology, and research methodologies, usually supported by a degree in botany or a related field. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, GIS software, and statistical analysis tools is commonly required. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication skills make someone stand out in this role. These competencies are crucial for conducting accurate research, publishing findings, and contributing to environmental conservation efforts.

What is the difference between Botany vs Plant Science?

AspectBotanyPlant Science
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Botany, Biology, or related fieldsBachelor's or Master's in Plant Science, Biology, or related fields
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, universities, botanical gardens, fieldworkResearch labs, agricultural settings, universities, fieldwork
Industry UsageAcademic research, conservation, educationAgriculture, horticulture, biotechnology, research
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding botanical careers, research rolesApplying plant knowledge in practical settings

Botany focuses on the scientific study of plants, including their structure, classification, and ecology. Plant Science covers a broader range of applied and research-based work related to plants, often emphasizing agricultural and technological applications. While both fields share similar credentials and work environments, Botany is more research and taxonomy-oriented, whereas Plant Science leans toward practical applications in agriculture and industry.

Are botanists in high demand?

Botanists are in moderate demand, primarily in research institutions, environmental agencies, and agriculture. Employment opportunities depend on funding, environmental policies, and scientific advancements, with a need for specialized skills in plant identification, ecology, and laboratory techniques.

Do botanists make good money?

Botanists' salaries vary depending on experience, education, and employment sector, with median annual wages around $50,000 to $70,000. Those working in research, academia, or government agencies tend to earn higher salaries, especially with advanced degrees and specialized skills. Entry-level positions may pay less, while experienced botanists or those in managerial roles can earn significantly more.

What jobs can you do in botany?

Botany offers various career opportunities including plant biologist, horticulturist, conservation scientist, plant pathologist, and botanical researcher. These roles often require knowledge of plant taxonomy, ecology, and laboratory or fieldwork skills, and may involve working in research institutions, botanical gardens, or environmental organizations.

What cities near Goodyear, AZ are hiring for Botany jobs?

Cities near Goodyear, AZ with the most Botany job openings:

Infographic showing various Botany job openings in Goodyear, AZ as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 69% Full Time, 27% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,112 per year, or $24.1 per hour.

SENIOR HORTICULTURIST

The Phoenix Zoo

Phoenix, AZ • On-site

$23.70 - $27.44/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 17 days ago


Job description

Description
Job Title: Senior Horticulturist
Department: Living Collections - Horticulture
Supervisor: Collection Manager of Horticulture
Supervises: None
FLSA Status: Full Time; Regular; Non-Exempt
Pay : $23.70 - $27.44
General Statement:
The Senior Horticulturist is responsible for performing the installing and maintenance of landscape materials, water features and irrigation systems, and the use and maintenance of power equipment.
Essential Duties:
1. Provide quality guest service to both internal and external guests by maintaining a WILD (friendly, helpful, positive and professional) working attitude and appearance.
2. Responsible for landscape design and installation, general grounds maintenance that includes pesticide application, basic maintenance of irrigation systems, maintenance of lakes and waterways.
3. Responsible for identifying plant needs, problems and provide appropriate solutions
4. Responsible for routine preventive vehicle and equipment maintenance.
5. Assume role as mentor to other Horticulturists by providing technical horticulture information and demonstrating positive solution-oriented approaches to problems.
6. Act as project manager for volunteer staff projects.
7. Interpret the horticulture collection to the public.
8. Serve as backup to irrigation technician when necessary.
This is by no means an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, skills, duties, requirements, efforts, or working conditions associated with the job. Management reserves the right to revise the job or to require that other or different tasks be performed when circumstances change (e.g. emergencies, changes in personnel, workload, rush jobs, or technological developments).
Requirements
Horticulturist I:
  1. High school diploma required.
  2. Minimum six months paid or one-year volunteer experience in work relevant to grounds maintenance or horticulture.
  3. Bachelor's degree in Horticulture, Agriculture, Botany, or equivalent degree or experience/knowledge, or combination of experience with a technical certificate preferred.
  4. Knowledge or experience with local plant palette desired.
  5. Ability to safely operate and maintain hand and power equipment.
  6. Strong interpersonal skills.
  7. Ability to carry out oral and written instructions.
  8. Ability to perform heavy physical labor such as lifting up to 50lbs, use of picks, breaker bars, stake drivers, ladders and boats; occasionally tree climbing and use of jack hammer.
  9. Ability to bend, stoop, crawl and walk over uneven surfaces and work in extreme weather conditions.
  10. Possession of a valid driver's license.
  11. Ability to pass pre-employment background check, drug test, DMV check and clear annual TB test.

Horticulturist II:
  1. High school diploma required.
  2. Minimum 2 years paid experience in landscape maintenance or horticulture.
  3. Bachelor's degree in Horticulture, Agriculture, Botany, or equivalent degree or experience/knowledge, or combination of experience with a technical certificate preferred.
  4. State Certification in Structural Pest Control for Turf and Ornamental preferred.
  5. Knowledge and skill in use of landscape and irrigation equipment (i.e., PVC, valves and drip irrigation)
  6. Knowledge or experience with local plant palette required.
  7. Ability to safely operate and maintain hand and power equipment.
  8. Ability to work independently and demonstrate self initiative.
  9. Strong interpersonal skills.
  10. Ability to carry out oral and written instructions.
  11. Ability to perform heavy physical labor such as lifting up to 50lbs., use of picks, breaker bars, stake drivers, ladders and boats; occasionally tree climbing and use of jack hammer.
  12. Ability to bend, stoop, crawl and walk over uneven surfaces and work in extreme weather conditions.
  13. Possession of a valid driver's license.
  14. Ability to pass pre-employment background check, drug test, DMV check and clear annual TB test.

Senior Horticulturist:
  1. High school diploma required.
  2. Minimum 5 years paid experience in landscape maintenance or horticulture.
  3. Bachelor's degree in Horticulture, Agriculture, Botany, or equivalent degree or combination of experience with a technical certificate strongly preferred.
  4. Knowledge of landscape and irrigation equipment (i.e., PVC, valves and drip irrigation)
  5. Knowledge or experience with local plant palette required.
  6. Ability to safely operate and maintain hand and power equipment.
  7. Ability to work independently and demonstrate self initiative.
  8. Strong interpersonal skills.
  9. Ability to perform heavy physical labor such as lifting up to 50lbs., use of picks, breaker bars, stake drivers, ladders and boats; occasionally tree climbing and use of jack hammer.
  10. Ability to bend, stoop, crawl and walk over uneven surfaces and work in extreme weather conditions.
  11. Possession of a valid driver's license
  12. Ability to pass pre-employment background check, drug test, DMV check and clear annual TB test.