Director Insect Research Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

We are seeking a passionate and collaborative Plant Health Care professional to lead the Arboretum’s efforts to protect and enhance the health of our trees and living collections. This role plays a vital part in preserving the beauty, diversity, and ecological value of the Arboretum by guiding sustainable plant care practices, advancing Integrated Pest Management strategies, and reducing reliance on pesticides. Through hands-on work, staff training, and collaboration with research and community partners, this individual will help ensure a thriving landscape that supports education, conservation, and an exceptional visitor experience. 

Location: Hybrid (The Morton Arboretum, Lisle IL)  

Position Summary: 

Lead the Plant Health Care program through development and execution of a comprehensive Integrated Pest Management strategy; diagnosis and documentation of plant pest and disease problems on the Arboretum grounds; synthesis of current research in supporting Arboretum initiatives; development and implementation of plant health care training for Arboretum staff; and the design and implementation of applied research in collaboration with other Arboretum staff members and industry partners. 

Essential Functions: 

• Develop and implement plant health care program goals and future strategies for the Arboretum with an emphasis on Integrated Pest Management and reduction of pesticides dependence.
• Manage all aspects of day-to-day plant health care program, including operations, maintenance, safety, and budget. 
• Provide diagnostic analysis for various internal stakeholders, including technical laboratory tests, recommendations for treatment, and improvements in operating procedures.
• Maintain diagnostic records in the Arboretum database, support data accessibility, and facilitate Arboretum staff and volunteer participation in scouting and reporting.
• Collaborate with internal staff, academic partners, governmental agents, and other industry experts to identify current and emerging pest and disease problems in the region. Work with the director of collections and curator to identify key areas of needed research and develop applied research projects in collaboration with Arboretum researchers and industry partners. 
• Compile, analyze, and interpret data presented through internal reports, publications, presentations, and outreach/engagement activities. Leverage and expand professional networks of diagnostic clinics, universities, industry, and other relevant professionals to expand reach, collaboration, and knowledge.
• Collaborate and ensure regular communications and development of shared goals with other related Arboretum programs in Collections & Horticulture
• Provide training and technical support for staff, interns, and volunteers assisting in pest and disease scouting on Arboretum grounds, including data collection and processing
• Demonstrate alignment with the Arboretum’s employee core values.
• Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications: Bachelor’s degree required, Master’s degree in plant pathology, entomology, horticulture, urban forestry, biological sciences, or related field preferred, 3+ years professional experience in diagnosis of disease and insect pests of woody plants required. Demonstrated experience diagnosing and treating a variety of ornamental plant diseases and insects using a variety of management strategies, including biological control methods. Demonstrated knowledge of the principles of experimental design, data analysis, and ability to conduct independent research. Excellent organizational skills and a capacity to function independently and as part of an interdepartmental team required. Proven record of strong communication and collaboration skills including the ability to adapt communications to a variety of professional and lay audiences. Must possess a valid driver’s license, which is subject to insurability and an annual Motor Vehicle Record (MVR) report. Proficiency with Microsoft Office and Google applications necessary.

Success Factors: Ability to effectively work independently while also being willing to collaborate across disciplines. Capacity to work in both the lab and the field. Management strengths in prioritization, multitasking, accountability, and time management. Strong analytical skills paired with a comprehensive foundation of knowledge. Flexibility, excellent interpersonal skills, and a willingness to work well with a wide range of internal management and staff, external partners, and community members. 

Physical Demands and Work Environment: The physical demands and work environment characteristics described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these essential functions.

• Physical Demands: Requires some physical activity: walking over varied terrain, bending, limited lifting and carrying (up to 30 lbs. assisted). Manual dexterity and visual acuity to observe plants. Use of chemicals may be necessary, ability to wear Personal Protective Equipment required. Some travel required. 
• Work Environment: Office environment and Arboretum grounds. Work is performed indoors and outdoors, in a variety of weather conditions. 
• Equipment: General office equipment, field and laboratory equipment, including specialized equipment relating to a particular field of research, Arboretum pick-up truck and/or utility vehicle.

The expected hiring range for this position is $77,000-$87,000 based on experience that will be evaluated during the candidate selection process. We believe in the importance of pay equity and consider the internal equity of our current team members as a part of the final offer. 

Our benefits include:

• Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance 
• 401(k) with generous match 
• Generous vacation, floating holidays, and sick days 

And more! For a complete list of benefits, please view our competitive benefits package.

For consideration of this position, applicants are required to include both a resume and a cover letter with their application.

The Morton Arboretum is a champion for diversity, supporting a culture of inclusion that attracts, inspires, and engages people to achieve success. The Arboretum is committed to hire and develop employees based on job-related qualifications irrespective of race, religion, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, or veteran status. The Morton Arboretum is dedicated to complying with our obligations as an equal opportunity employer. All applicants are guaranteed equal consideration for employment.