ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Horticulture Director Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Metroparks Toledo

Horticulture Technician 1

Toledo, OH · On-site

$17.76 - $25.82/hr

Park Services Supervisor DIRECT REPORTS: None Level 1 DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: * Responsible ... Collaborate with horticultural associate organizations based at the botanical garden. * Assist with ...

Madden Brothers, Inc.

Head of Horticulture

Brainerd, MN · On-site

$19 - $24/hr

... directing and overseeing the work of the Lead Landscaper to ensure edging, mulch, rock beds, and ... Directs, schedules, and works alongside horticulture team members in daily plant care operations ...

New

Madden's on Gull Lake

Head of Horticulture

Brainerd, MN

$19 - $24/hr

... directing and overseeing the work of the Lead Landscaper to ensure edging, mulch, rock beds, and ... Directs, schedules, and works alongside horticulture team members in daily plant care operations ...

New

Metroparks Toledo

Horticulture Technician 1

Toledo, OH · On-site

$17.76 - $25.83/hr

Park Services Supervisor DIRECT REPORTS: None Level 1 DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: * Responsible ... Collaborate with horticultural associate organizations based at the botanical garden. * Assist with ...

previous page

Showing results 41-60

All JobsHorticulture JobsHorticulture Director Jobs

Horticulture Director information

See salary details

$10

$31

$71

How much do horticulture director jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 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:

What job categories do people searching Horticulture Director jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Horticulture Director jobs are:

Horticulture Director jobs near you
Infographic showing various Horticulture Director job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $65,904 per year, or $31.7 per hour.

Manager of Plant Records and Horticulture Programs

Lincoln Park Zoological Society

Chicago, IL • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 4 days ago

Job description

Lincoln Park Zoo inspires communities to create environments where wildlife will thrive in our urbanizing world. The zoo is a leader in local and global conservation, animal care and welfare, learning, and science. A historic Chicago landmark founded in 1868, the not-for-profit Lincoln Park Zoo, is a privately managed, member-supported organization and is free and open 365 days a year. Visit us at lpzoo.org.
GENERAL SUMMARY
The department of Animal Care and Horticulture is an integrated team that cares for the animals and plants that live at the Lincoln Park Zoo.
This in-person position is responsible for the management of plant records and labeling, plant health care and integrated pest management planning, plant propagation, and development of horticultural programming. This position works closely with the Director of Horticulture to develop and execute special horticulture projects and ongoing programmatic components of the horticulture team, assist with development of specialized plant collections, and siting of permanent plant materials. This position also is required, as needed, to assist hands-on in gardens and oversee horticulture operations projects and contractors, and staff seasonal after-hours events.
ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS
  • Manage the plant records, including the plant records database (irisBG), the manufacturing and installation of plant labels, and management of regular plant inventories, accession mapping, plant identification, plant toxicity evaluation list, and data validation.
  • Manage plant health care initiatives and plant quarantines under the direction of the Director of Horticulture, including indoor environmental data tracking, coordinating horticulture IPM program with Pest Control, scouting for insect infestations and exploring solutions to improve plant health across zoo gardens.
  • Manage plant propagation initiatives including propagule collection, sowing of seed, and asexual propagation.
  • Assists the Director of Horticulture in the development of specialized horticultural collections including sourcing and ordering of plant materials, and assisting in siting of permanent collection plants.
  • Assists in the development of programmatic components of the horticulture program, managing special projects as assigned including tours, classes, after-hours events, and phenology programs.
  • Assist the Director of Horticulture in programmatic information management, producing and maintaining various documents, files, and reports as requested.
  • Assists the Director of Horticulture in grant writing and donor cultivation as requested.
  • Collaborate with other departments at the zoo as a representative of the horticulture team.
  • Collaborates with external partners and seeks new opportunities for professional partnerships in plant research, conservation, public horticulture, and/or community-based projects.
  • Assists the Director of Horticulture in preparation of annual horticulture budget.
  • Represent the zoo in meetings and interactions with current and potential donors, partners, and other stakeholders. May be asked to present at zoo events or professional meetings and conferences.
  • Occasionally may be asked to develop and implement training for horticulture team and volunteers.
  • Supervise the Public Horticulture Intern and support other horticulture staff, assisting with potential research projects and interdepartmental collaboration.
  • Supports horticultural operations in zoo gardens, occasionally overseeing operational projects and horticulture contractors.
  • Ensures cleanliness, order, and safety of working environment for oneself and those in and surrounding the work site.
  • Occasionally participating in operations horticulture, including: grooming, mulching, planting, pruning, watering, weeding and other horticultural care.

ADDITIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES
  • May use electric cart and/or hand truck to transport plants and supplies
  • May use vehicle for zoo pick-ups and deliveries
  • May be asked to direct volunteers and guests in a zoo emergency
  • May be asked to participate in a Zoo Committee
  • Performs other duties as assigned

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES
  • Thorough knowledge of and ability to communicate and be understood in verbal and written business English, with an emphasis on public speaking
  • Advanced skills in computer word processing, spread sheets and database software.
  • Knowledge in plant database software (irisBG) or comparable database preferred.
  • Advanced knowledge of plant identification and growing requirements.
  • Advanced Knowledge of appropriate gardening techniques and practices to promote plant health.
  • Knowledge in integrated pest management planning and implementation.
  • Knowledge in plant propagation techniques and practices.
  • Knowledge of proper handling and use on a variety of related tools, equipment and machinery
  • Ability to train horticulture team members and volunteers in proper program practices and procedures
  • Knowledge of interpretation techniques, and ability to create tour guides and lead tours effectively.
  • Ability to effect and enforce safe work practices
  • Ability to respond calmly and productively in emergency situations be they human or animal
  • Ability to understand and carry out oral and written directions
  • Ability to organize tasks and time to ensure timely completion of all projects
  • Ability to interact courteously and respectfully with supervisors, fellow employees, volunteers, zoo visitors and general public
  • Ability to operate electric cart

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS
Associate's degree in horticulture or related field, Bachelor's degree preferred.
Three years of practical experience in applied horticulture, database management preferred. Must have proven knowledge of common landscape plants of the Midwest and plant ID skills. Experience in a public garden setting preferred. Supervisory experience also preferred.
Note: A comparable combination of education, experience or training that would provide the level of knowledge, skills and ability required may qualify individual.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
Ability to lift on a frequent basis up to 50 lbs. Ability to remain on feet for long periods of time. Ability to frequently bend, stoop, reach and climb. Ability to safely and effectively utilize the program tools and equipment. Ability to move about on sometimes slippery, muddy surfaces. Ability to work in all weather conditions. Ability to work on uneven terrain. No allergy to plants or animals which may interfere with the ability to work.
ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS
Available to work weekends, holidays and evenings as needed and assigned.
Available to work special events that may occur outside of regular work schedule as assigned.
Available to assist with emergency and storm related horticulture events as needed, including potential to be called in on days that are scheduled off or during unscheduled hours.
Must have valid driver's license with good driving record.
Excellent written and oral communication skills.
General working knowledge of small tools and equipment.
Compensation: $55,000-$59,000
Our Commitment
Lincoln Park Zoo is committed to an environment that is inclusive and welcoming. We celebrate the diverse qualities, perspectives, values, and experiences of all people. For Wildlife. For All.
LINCOLN PARK ZOO BENEFITS
In addition to such standard benefits ( Blue Cross Blue Shield) as medical, dental, vision, life, and disability coverages, and a 403(b) savings plan with an institutional match, benefits of working at the zoo include (benefits are for regular full time employees):
  • Free admission to many other Chicago cultural institutions
  • Free on-site parking anytime with access to Lincoln Park, Lakeshore Trail, and North Avenue Beach
  • Discounts on event tickets (free admission to select events), attractions, dining, and retail at the zoo
  • Quarterly staff mingle events and "LPZooU" training and educational sessions about the zoo, wildlife, ecology, and related subjects
  • Company contribution to Health Savings Account (Medical PPO only)
  • A working environment with green spaces and regularly available visits with wildlife!

Apply