1

Horticulture Director Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The horticulture director helps advance our strategic goal of positioning the Garden as an industry leader by elevating the department's expertise, increasing the visibility of its work, and ...

The horticulture director helps advance our strategic goal of positioning the Garden as an industry leader by elevating the department's expertise, increasing the visibility of its work, and ...

The horticulture director helps advance our strategic goal of positioning the Garden as an industry leader by elevating the department's expertise, increasing the visibility of its work, and ...

Director of Horticulture

MD · On-site

$95K - $125K/yr

The Director is responsible for planning and coordinating the daily activities of the horticulture staff and volunteers; develop, plans and implements planting designs; establishes and adheres to an ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Horticulture Director information

See salary details

$10

$31

$71

How much do horticulture director jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for horticulture director in the United States is $31.68, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.79 and $33.65 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Horticulture Director, you need expertise in plant science, garden and landscape management, and personnel supervision, typically supported by a degree in horticulture or a related field and substantial industry experience. Familiarity with horticultural management software, greenhouse and irrigation systems, and relevant certifications such as a pesticide applicator license are often required. Strong leadership, communication, and project management skills help you effectively lead teams and coordinate with stakeholders. These skills are essential to ensure healthy, sustainable plant environments while achieving organizational and operational goals.

What does a Horticulture Director do?

A Horticulture Director oversees the planning, development, and maintenance of gardens, landscapes, and green spaces. They manage teams of horticulturists, coordinate plant care programs, and ensure environmental sustainability. Their role may involve budgeting, research, and collaborating with other departments to enhance plant health and aesthetics. Additionally, they stay updated on industry trends and best practices to improve horticultural operations.

What are some common challenges faced by Horticulture Directors, and how can they be managed?

Horticulture Directors often face challenges such as managing a variety of plant species in diverse environmental conditions, balancing budgets, and addressing unexpected issues like pest infestations or extreme weather. Effective planning, staying up to date with the latest horticultural practices, and strong team leadership help mitigate these challenges. Directors also need to be adaptable and proactive, working closely with staff, vendors, and other departments to ensure smooth operations. By fostering a collaborative environment and encouraging continuous learning, Horticulture Directors can successfully navigate these complexities while maintaining thriving landscapes.

More about Horticulture Director jobs
What cities are hiring for Horticulture Director jobs? Cities with the most Horticulture Director job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Horticulture jobs? The most popular types of Horticulture jobs are:
What states have the most Horticulture Director jobs? States with the most job openings for Horticulture Director jobs include:
Infographic showing various Horticulture Director job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 98% Full Time, and 1% Temporary. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $65,904 per year, or $31.7 per hour.
Horticulture Director

$71K - $72K/yr

Full-time, Part-time

Posted 7 days ago


The University Of North Carolina At Charlotte rating

6.6

Company rating: 6.6 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

434th of 544 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Position Information
General Information
Position Number
002730
Vacancy Open to
All Candidates
Working Title
Horticulture Director
Position Designation
EHRA Non-Faculty
Employment Type
Permanent - Full-time
Months per Year
12
Work Schedule
Monday through Friday 7:30 am - 4:30 pm, with occasional weekend and evening responsibilities.
Hours per week
40
FLSA Status
Exempt
Division
Academic Affairs
Department
College of Science (Col)
Work Location
Botanical Gardens
Salary Range
$71,121 - $72,000
Primary Purpose of Department
The goal of the Botanical Gardens is to promote the knowledge and appreciation of plants for educational, environmental, and aesthetic purposes within a university setting. The Botanical Gardens are composed of the McMillan Greenhouse, the Susie Harwood Garden, and the Van Landingham Glen. The Gardens are funded through a combination of state monies, endowments, and donations.
Primary Purpose of Position
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.
Summary of Position Responsibilities
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 Education/Experience
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, Knowledge, Skills and Experience
  • Extensive experience; eight or more years in a horticultural or botanical industry with four years of supervisory experience
  • Must have skill 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.

Necessary Certifications/Licenses
Must be willing to acquire and maintain a pesticide applicator's license.
Preferred Certifications/Licenses
Special Notes to Applicants
  • The finalist will be subject to a Criminal Background Check and/or a Motor Vehicle Report
  • The Search Committee will not contact references without first verifying permission with the finalist
  • Please ensure your resume reflects the knowledge, skills, abilities, and experiences to support your answers to the supplemental questions.
  • UNC Charlotte Benefits Information: https://hr.charlotte.edu/benefits/benefits-overview/

Posting Open Date
06/29/2026
Posting Close Date
07/25/2026
Open Until Filled
No
Proposed Hire Date
09/01/2026
If time-limited please indicate appointment end date
Contact Information

What The University Of North Carolina At Charlotte employees say

Pay

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom