Employment & Botanical
Garden Jobs

Welcome! We are excited to share these employment opportunities at the Garden with you.  The Garden celebrates the diversity of all people, just as we honor the diversity of plants and ecosystems in our world, with a focus on Inclusion, Diversity, Equity and Accessibility.

Garden Overview

Mission

Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden’s mission is connecting people to plants by inspiring communities to explore and conserve nature.

Vision

We are a Virginia garden of international significance leading in horticultural and educational excellence. We cultivate experiences that enhance each person’s relationship with the natural world.

Values

Responsibility, Innovation, Integrity, Hospitality and Inspiration

Founded in 1984, Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden is a nonprofit garden located in Richmond, Virginia’s Lakeside neighborhood. The Garden encompasses 82 acres, four lakes, 5,500 unique taxa of plants within 15 distinct outdoor gardens, 11 major buildings including a conservatory and greenhouse, plus an 80-acre branch site, the Lewis Ginter Nature Reserve. Annually, Lewis Ginter engages over 17,000 students in innovative and exciting educational programs. This cadre of identified learners is just a fraction of the more than 400,000 annual visitors to the Garden. In recent years, the Garden has been honored with inclusion in several top ten lists for botanical gardens in North America.

Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We do not discriminate on the grounds of race, color, religion, sex, age, disability, or national origin in the hiring, retention, or promotion of employees. We support the diversity and inclusion policy adopted by The American Public Gardens Association: to create an equitable, diverse and inclusive culture where the contributions of all community members are valued, respected, and appreciated.

Each Employee of Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden

  • Must comply with provisions of the current Employee Handbook, all published personnel policies and the requirements of their individual job descriptions.
  • Must conduct herself or himself and perform all duties in a manner consistent with a public garden serving multigenerational and multicultural individuals and families, and in accordance with directed practices and procedures.
  • Must be aware of surroundings and vigilant to threats to the safety of visitors, volunteers, and staff or to the security of their property, ensuring that all concerns are reported promptly.
  • Must report all mishaps, injuries, and incidents immediately and ultimately in writing to supervisor(s) and to Human Resources.
  • Must ensure compliance with all applicable federal and state laws and regulations.
  • Must perform other duties as assigned by supervisor.
  • Have proof of a COVID-19 vaccine.

Full-Time Openings

 

Salary Range: $15.00 - $20.00 per hour

Job Description

The Exhibits and Programming Coordinator is responsible for the development, coordination, and implementation of programmatic initiatives that invite, welcome, and celebrate individuals from diverse communities. This includes, but is not limited to, Garden-wide special events, indoor and outdoor exhibits, interpretive signage, and off-site programs. The Exhibits and Programming Coordinator will co-create programming with the community, building external relationships and strengthening existing partnerships.

The successful candidate will be smart, intuitive, creative, resourceful, innovative, team-oriented, and forward thinking with a proven record of success in designing and managing events, projects, or programs. The position is full time (Category 1), and contributes to the advancement of the Garden’s educational mission and excellence in guest services.

Responsibilities

  • Develops and implements programs and events that are mission appropriate, innovative, experiential, cost-effective and co-created with our diverse community partners.
  • In collaboration with the Exhibitions Manager, researches, plans, and coordinates exhibits with local and regional artists.
  • Serves on the cross-departmental Programming and Interpretation Committee, which is responsible for creating a three year Garden-wide plan for exhibitions, programs, and events.
  • Assists Exhibition Manager with the installation and de-installation of Garden-wide exhibitions, including but not limited to, moving and handling art, coordinating staff and volunteer support, and installing exhibit components such as labels, sign holders and barricades.
  • Coordinates with external partners, artists, and vendors, including negotiating and writing MOUs/agreements, processing purchase orders, and facilitating day-of details.
  • Ensures the design, content, and production of interpretation-related materials for exhibits and programming including, but not limited to, written program descriptions, interpretive signage, blog posts, and promotional signage.
  • With staff and volunteer support, coordinates and facilitates off-site programs and events with community partners.
  • Collaborates with the Marketing department on promoting events and programs through social media platforms.
  • Fosters teamwork and mentors staff and volunteers by modeling best practices alongside them.

Skills and Abilities

  • Demonstrated knowledge of informal education principles and developmentally appropriate practices for learners of all ages.
  • Demonstrated graphic design skills including signage design and development of interpretive material.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including public speaking and group facilitation.
  • Must be able to initiate, build and sustain relationships with fellow staff, volunteers, and community partners.
  • Enthusiastic, energetic, quick-thinking, cheerful, courteous, capable, diplomatic, and solution-oriented.
  • Well-organized and detail-oriented, able to work independently as well as in a team environment.
  • Technical proficiency with computers including Microsoft Office, Adobe Creative Suite, WordPress, and Canva.
  • Access to a car on a daily basis and a valid state driver’s license or ability to transport self as needed.
  • Must be able to work varying hours, including evenings, weekends, and occasional holidays

Each employee of Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden

  • Must comply with provisions of the current Employee handbook, all published personnel policies and the requirements of their individual job descriptions.
  • Must perform all duties in a manner consistent with a public garden serving multigenerational and multicultural individuals, families in accordance with directed practices and procedures.
  • Must be aware of surroundings and vigilant to threats to the safety of visitors, volunteers, and staff or to security of their property, ensuring that all concerns are reported promptly.
  • Must report all injuries and incidents immediately and ultimately in writing to supervisor(s) and to Human Resources.
  • Must ensure compliance with all applicable federal and state laws and regulations.
  • Must perform other duties as assigned by supervisor.

Physical Demands / Working Conditions

  • Ability to carry up to 40 lbs.
  • Must be able to move throughout the 82-acre Garden property, as needed.
  • Must be able to work outdoors in all weather conditions including heat, cold, wind, and humidity.
  • Must be able to sit, stand, walk, stoop, kneel, crawl, reach, push, pull, lift, grasp, feel, and utilize repetitive motions for prolonged periods of time.
  • Must be comfortable working in immediate proximity to the general public in a safe and friendly manner.
  • Note: Duties described above, other duties, and physical demands have been identified as essential functions as required by the Americans with Disabilities Act.

Education and Experience

  • BA or BS degree; a combination of education and equivalent experience may be considered.
  • Prior experience in a botanical garden, museum, or cultural non-profit.
  • A minimum of 3 years of successful experience in managing programs, projects, or special events.
  • Demonstrated experience in reaching, welcoming, and including marginalized audiences in program development.
  • Proficiency working with graphic design software, including but not limited to Adobe InDesign, Canva, and WordPress.
  • Proficiency in conversational Spanish desirable.

To apply, please send a cover letter and resume to [email protected].

 

Salary Range
$50,000 - $60,000

Job Description

The Director of Social Responsibility is responsible for broadening the accessibility and relevance of Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden through intentional relationship building with communities that have not been robustly represented at the Garden. They will develop strategies for connecting with and engaging diverse communities, provide leadership and daily oversight of community partnership programs both on-site and off-site, and implement systems to build capacity and collaborations. Based on the Garden’s newly adopted strategic plan that includes social responsibility as one of four commitments, they will work closely with our partners, staff, volunteers and Board to build a more inclusive, welcoming, and accessible Garden.

We are committed to elevating diverse backgrounds and experiences that are not well represented on our team. We value the opportunity to work with individuals from different cultures and understand that like diverse ecosystems, diverse workplaces are needed for success. We have a strong desire for our Director of Social Responsibility to represent the diverse community we serve. We encourage candidates from underrepresented identities and experiences to apply.

Responsibilities 

  • Develop priorities, establish expectations, and set goals for community partnerships, implementing systems to build capacity and collaboration.
    • Actively participate in community networks and gatherings, listening to community needs and facilitating conversations in order to develop meaningful partnership programs.
    • Develop best management practices for partnerships, including overseeing the development of a rigorous decision making process that ensures an equitable approach to programming beyond the Garden’s walls.
    • Collaborate with staff and volunteers to manage and grow partnerships on and off-site, prioritizing community mental health and well-being.
    • Compile and maintain an inventory of partners.
    • Provide leadership and oversight for tabling at festivals and events, collaborating with the Marketing team on developing a strategic calendar.
  • Collaborate with partners, staff, volunteers, Board of Directors, and Board of Associates to grow a more inclusive, diverse, and accessible Garden.
    • Lead efforts to improve accessibility to and within the Garden; manage and build upon Garden access programs such as Museums for All and Share the Garden.
    • Collaborate with community partners in order to effectively welcome individuals of all backgrounds and abilities.
    • Lead the Garden’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion cross-departmental team.
    • Collaborate cross-departmentally to tell the history of the Garden, its land, and the Reserve with transparency.
    • Collaborate with Human Resources and leadership staff to provide training for working with and welcoming individuals from diverse communities.
  • Provide daily oversight for social responsibility initiatives.
    • Develop and implement an evaluation framework in order to measure and communicate impact and outcomes.
    • Establish, track, and maintain program budget.
    • Work closely with the Marketing department to share social responsibility and engagement initiatives on print, social media, website and other platforms.
    • Collaborate with the Advancement department to pursue funding opportunities, compile information for reports, and manage special project budgets.

Skills and Abilities

  • Strong leadership skills, including the demonstrated ability to bring together various stakeholders toward a common goal.
  • Innovative thinker, with a track record for translating strategic thinking into action plans and results.
  • Adaptability; a demonstrated positive approach to problem solving and collaborating with others.
  • The ability to foster empathy amongst colleagues and guests while working effectively and respectfully with people of diverse cultures, ages, and economic backgrounds.
  • Excellent organizational skills; ability to prioritize work and meet deadlines while juggling multiple tasks and projects, planning months in advance while responding to day-to-day demands.
  • A strong commitment to and experience with DEI practices and training.
  • Demonstrated ability to facilitate difficult conversations.
  • Excellent writing, verbal, presentation, and public speaking skills.
  • Technical proficiency with computers, databases, and Microsoft software programs.
  • Flexibility to work weekend, evening and holiday hours, as needed.

Each employee of Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden

  • Must comply with provisions of the current Employee Handbook, all published personnel policies and the requirements of their individual job descriptions.
  • Must conduct herself or himself and perform all duties in a manner consistent with a public garden serving multigenerational and multicultural individuals and families, and in accordance with directed practices and procedures.
  • Must be aware of surroundings and vigilant to threats to the safety of visitors, volunteers, and staff or to the security of their property, ensuring that all concerns are reported promptly.
  • Must report all mishaps, injuries, and incidents immediately and ultimately in writing to supervisor(s) and to Human Resources.
  • Must ensure compliance with all applicable federal and state laws and regulations.
  • Must perform other duties as assigned by supervisor.
  • Have proof of a COVID-19 vaccine.

Physical Demands / Working Conditions

  • The Director of Social Responsibility and Engagement is provided an indoor computer work station.
  • Ability to carry up to 30 lbs.
  • Ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions.
  • Comfortable working in immediate proximity to general public in a safe and friendly manner.
  • The position requires familiarity with all public areas of the 82-acre Garden property.

Note: Duties described above, other duties and physical demands have been identified as essential functions as required by the Americans with Disabilities Act.

Education and Experience

  • Bachelor’s degree.
  • A minimum of 3 years related experience.
  • Demonstrated experience in reaching, welcoming, and including underserved audiences in programming and outreach efforts.
  • Experience with DEI practices and training.
  • Demonstrated knowledge of best practices in sustainable community relationship building.
  • Broad-based knowledge of a full range of techniques for community programs development.
  • Prior experience in a botanical garden, museum, or cultural non-profit preferred.
  • Proficiency in conversational Spanish desirable.

To apply, please send cover letter and resume to [email protected].

Salary Range: $15.00 -$17.00 per hour

Job Description

Under the guidance of the Horticulture Section Leaders, the Assistant Horticulturist assists the Horticulture team with the installation and care of the display gardens and horticultural collections, both outdoors and under glass.  This position works collaboratively within a dynamic department that is responsible for creating and maintaining displays that represent the highest aesthetic standards at the Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden and the Lewis Ginter Nature Reserve.  Individuals in this position should have a keen interest in horticulture and gardening, a general understanding of horticultural principles, and the skills necessary to perform basic horticultural tasks.

Responsibilities

  • Assist with the hands-on maintenance of annuals, perennials, shrubs, trees, and tropical plants in a manner consistent with the horticulture standards of the Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden and the Nature Reser
  • Physically work in all aspects of garden maintenance and development including soil preparation, planting & transplanting, mulching, watering, weeding, fertilizing, pruning, propagating, potting, raking, sweeping, and blowing.
  • Utilize hand tools effectively and safely.
  • Operate push mowers, weed-whackers, backpack blowers, push blowers, garden ATVs, tractors, pickup trucks, and other power equipment in accordance with LGBG safety protocols and regulatory standards (training will be provided).
  • Participate in weekly group maintenance tasks such as blowing walkways, replenishing supplies, and caring for tools and equipment
  • Apply pesticides and herbicides in accordance with IPM protocols and in accordance with all federal, state, and local regulation
  • Participate in group projects with other horticulture staff and in cross-departmental initiatives as needed (i.e. marketing, education, facilities, etc.).
  • Assist with the care of our natural areas including our meadows and woodlands.
  • Regularly work with Horticulture Volunteer
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

Skills and Abilities

  • A passion for horticulture and plant collections, and a commitment to the “public” in public horticulture
  • A thorough understanding of horticultural practices and procedures and the ability to identify frequently used woody, herbaceous, and annual landscape plants.
  • The ability to use hand and power tools effectively and safely.
  • Strong work ethic and an enthusiasm for physical work outdoors.
  • A willingness to interact with the public on an informal basis by answering questions, providing directions, etc.
  • The ability to work with a diverse staff and group of volunteers.
  • Able to work independently and collaboratively.
  • The ability to follow written and verbal instructions.
  • Must be available to work evenings, weekends, and occasional holidays, ensuring coverage for Horticulture outside the traditional work week/day

Physical Demands / Working Conditions

  • Must have the physical strength, dexterity, and coordination sufficient to perform the above functions.
  • Must be able to bend, squat, kneel, stand and walk long distances for extended periods of time.
  • Must be able to work out-of-doors and under glass in Central Virginia seasonal extremes.
  • Have the ability to push, pull and/or lift 50 pounds repeatedly
  • Note: Duties described above, other duties and physical demands have been identified as essential.

Education and Experience

  • Required
    • One year of experience as a professional gardener or groundskeeper.
    • Virginia Pesticide Applicator’s License (or the ability to obtain one within six months of hire).
    • Possession of a valid driver's licen
    • Other combinations of education/experience appropriate to the job will be considere
  • Preferred
    • An Associate's degree in Horticulture, Botany, Plant Science, or a related field.

Each employee of Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden

  • Must comply with provisions of the current Employee Handbook, all published personnel policies and the requirements of their individual job descriptions.
  • Must conduct herself or himself and perform all duties in a manner consistent with a public garden serving multigenerational and multicultural individuals and families, and in accordance with directed practices and procedures.
  • Must be aware of surroundings and vigilant to threats to the safety of visitors, volunteers, and staff or to the security of their property, ensuring that all concerns are reported promptly.
  • Must report all mishaps, injuries, and incidents immediately and ultimately in writing to supervisor(s) and to Human Resources.
  • Must ensure compliance with all applicable federal and state laws and regulations.
  • Must perform other duties as assigned by supervisor.
  • Have proof of a COVID-19 vaccine.

To apply, please submit a cover letter and resume to h[email protected].

 

Salary Range: $22.00 - $27.00 per hour

Job Description

The Horticulture Section Leader reports to the Vice President (VP) of Horticulture as part of a team who support departmental administration, finance, and planning. Under the VP’s guidance, they develop all implementation measures and schedules and execute horticultural aspirations, goals, and objectives for the Garden and the Lewis Ginter Nature Reserve. They develop a strong team of horticultural professionals by investing in the training, support, and development of their staff and volunteers while acknowledging the integrity of the gardens presented is directly connected to the passion of the team maintaining them. This specific position provides leadership for dynamic spaces within the Garden including the conservatory and greenhouses, formal outdoor gardens, outdoor nursery space, and the Kroger Community Kitchen Garden.

Responsibilities

Administrative

  • Oversees designated Horticulture Section and its assigned staff, volunteers, and workforce development participants while ensuring work aligns with organizational goals and core values.
  • Supports daily work in the Garden section by leading a diverse team. This includes interviewing, hiring, training, supervising, and performance assessment, with the ability to, coach, counsel, and transition staff.
  • Oversees the ongoing maintenance of and capital improvements for the conservatory and greenhouses
  • Promote, celebrate, and model professional development for Department members.
  • Serve as a member of the Horticulture Departmental Leadership Team.
  • Collaborates with the Director of Volunteers for volunteer engagement and collaboration with Annual Plant Sales and organizing corporate volunteer groups.
  • Schedules, plans, and implements strategies for the short-term and long-term evolution of the Garden section to reflect dynamic programming within the Garden, advancement of collections, and aesthetic beauty.
  • Collaborate across departments within the Garden and serve on relevant committees.
  • Assists VP of Horticulture with planning, budgeting, coordinating, and purchasing for staffing and resources for respective Garden Section.

Horticulture, Collections, Design and Display

  • Works daily to support and maintain a diverse planting of annuals, perennials, tropical, woody and edible plants through pruning, grooming, weeding, mulching, watering, fertilizing, and scouting.
  • Monitors conservatory and greenhouse control systems and ensures suitable growing conditions are maintained
  • Develops and maintains core collections of the Garden, focusing on orchids, aroids, palms and other tropical plants in the conservatory and greenhouse
  • Coordinates the purchase and or production and staging of seasonal plant orders for the Horticulture Department
  • Diligently leads in sustainable Integrated Pest Management (IPM) strategies including biological, mechanical, and cultural controls. Coordinate scouting and control treatments with IPM Horticulturist.
  • Represents Garden interest with green industry partners by participating in shows, meetings, conferences, symposia etc.
  • Interacts with the public on an informal basis by answering questions, providing directions, etc.
  • Models safe and correct use of Garden tools and equipment.
    • Utilize shovels, trowels, fan rakes, grading rakes, spades, digging forks, pickaxes, brooms, hand shears, hand saws, loppers, pole pruners & pole saws, wheelbarrows, fertilizer spreaders, garden carts, ladders, and other hand tools to complete assigned tasks.
    • Operate push mowers, weed-whackers, backpack blowers, push blowers, garden ATVs, pallet jacks, bucket lifts, tractors, pickup trucks, and other power equipment in accordance with LGBG safety protocols and regulatory standards (training will be provided).
  • Works collaboratively with a dynamic team to achieve horticultural standards of excellence.
    • Participate in weekly group maintenance tasks such as blowing walkways, filling gas cans, and caring for tools and equipment.
    • Participate in group projects and meetings with other horticulture staff and in cross-departmental projects.
  • Must be available to work evenings, weekends, and occasional holidays, ensuring coverage for Horticulture outside the traditional work week/day.
  • Performs other duties as assigned by the VP of Horticulture or their designee.

Skills and Abilities

  • Knowledge of and experience with landscape practices and plant care appropriate to the region.
  • Strong work ethic, keen interest in Horticulture, and an enthusiasm for physical work outdoors.
  • Proficiency in conservatory and greenhouse management control technology and relevant systems including venting, shading, irrigation, sanitization
  • A demonstrated understanding of the horticultural practices and procedures required for soil preparation, planting & transplanting, mulching, watering, weeding, fertilizing, pruning, propagating, mowing, raking, sweeping & blowing, and tree & brush cutting.
  • The ability to use shovels, trowels, fan rakes, grading rakes, spades, digging forks, pickaxes, brooms, hand shears, hand saws, loppers, pole pruners & pole saws, wheelbarrows, fertilizer spreaders, garden carts, ladders, and other hand tools effectively.
  • Demonstrated experience working with and managing irrigation technologies.
  • The ability to operate scissor and articulating lifts, push mowers, riding mowers, string trimmers, backpack blowers, push blowers, garden UTVs, pickup trucks, chainsaws, and other power equipment safely and effectively.
  • The ability to follow written and verbal instructions.

Physical Demands / Working Conditions

  • The physical strength, dexterity, and coordination sufficient to perform the above functions.
  • Must be able to bend, squat, kneel, stand, and walk for extended periods of time.
  • Must be able to work out-of-doors in Central Virginia seasonal extremes.
  • Must be able to lift 50 pounds repeatedly.

Note: Duties described above, other duties, and physical demands have been identified as essential functions as required by the Americans with Disabilities Act.

Education and Experience

  • A degree or professional certification in Horticulture, Botany, Plant Science, or a related field.
  • Five years of experience working in public gardens, parks or arboreta.
  • Conservatory experience mandatory
  • Virginia Pesticide Applicator’s License (or the ability to obtain one within six months of hire).
  • Possession of a valid driver's license.
  • Other combinations of education/experience appropriate to the job will be considered.
  • Proficiency in conversational Spanish desired.

Each employee of Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden

  • Must comply with provisions of the current Employee Handbook, all published personnel policies and the requirements of their individual job descriptions.
  • Must conduct herself or himself and perform all duties in a manner consistent with a public garden serving multigenerational and multicultural individuals and families, and in accordance with directed practices and procedures.
  • Must be aware of surroundings and vigilant to threats to the safety of visitors, volunteers, and staff or to the security of their property, ensuring that all concerns are reported promptly.
  • Must report all mishaps, injuries, and incidents immediately and ultimately in writing to supervisor(s) and to Human Resources.
  • Must ensure compliance with all applicable federal and state laws and regulations.
  • Must perform other duties as assigned by supervisor.
  • Have proof of a COVID-19 vaccine.

To apply, please send a cover letter and resume to [email protected] 

Part-Time Openings

 

Seasonal Openings

 

Salary Range: $15-$17 per hour

Job Description:

As an integral member of the Horticulture team, the Children’s Garden Seasonal Gardener is responsible for assisting and supporting full-time Horticulture staff with the installation and care of the display gardens and educational collections in and around the Children’s Garden. Individuals in this position should have a keen interest in horticulture and gardening, a general understanding of horticultural principles, and the skills necessary to perform basic horticultural tasks.

Responsibilities:

  • Participate in maintenance of horticultural displays, botanical collections and Garden natural areas.
    • Assist with the hands-on maintenance of annuals, perennials, shrubs, trees and tropical plants in a manner consistent with the horticulture standards of the Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden.
    • Physically work in all aspects of garden maintenance and development including soil preparation, planting & transplanting, mulching, watering, weeding, fertilizing, pruning, propagating, potting, raking, sweeping & blowing, tree & brush cutting, and recordkeeping.
  • Safe and correct use of Garden tools and equipment.
    • Utilize shovels, trowels, fan rakes, grading rakes, spades, digging forks, pickaxes, brooms, hand shears, hand saws, loppers, pole pruners & pole saws, wheelbarrows, fertilizer spreaders, garden carts, ladders, and other hand tools to complete assigned tasks.
    • Operate push mowers, weed-whackers, backpack blowers, push blowers, garden ATVs, tractors, pickup trucks, and other power equipment in accordance with LGBG safety protocols and regulatory standards (training will be provided).
  • Work collaboratively with a dynamic team to achieve horticultural standard of excellence.
    • Participate in weekly group maintenance tasks such as blowing walkways, filling gas cans, and caring for tools and equipment.
    • Participate in group projects and meetings with other horticulture staff and in cross-departmental projects.
    • Work collaboratively with both the Youth and Family Engagement team and Horticulture staff to plan and implement improvements to increase opportunities for hands-on teaching in the garden.
    • Work alongside youth volunteers and interns demonstrating horticultural best practices.
    • Work with Horticulture Volunteers.
  • Maintained high standards within the Children’s Garden
    • Ensure plants are health and the ChG is well-kept and welcoming for youth
    • Monitor and address safety concerns related to wildlife, insects, and invasive and toxic plants.
  • Perform other duties as assigned by Horticulture Section Lead or their designee.

Skills and Abilities:

  • A passion for horticulture and plant collections, and a commitment to the “public” in public horticulture.
  • A thorough understanding of horticultural practices and procedures and the ability to identify frequently used woody, herbaceous, and annual landscape plants.
  • The ability to use hand and power tools effectively and safely.
  • Strong work ethic and an enthusiasm for physical work outdoors.
  • A willingness to interact with the public on an informal basis by answering questions, providing directions, etc.
  • The ability to work with a diverse staff and group of volunteers.
  • Experience working with youth in an informal educational setting
  • Able to work independently and collaboratively.
  • The ability to follow written and verbal instructions.
  • Must be available to work evenings, weekends, and occasional holidays, ensuring coverage for Horticulture outside the traditional work week/day

Physical Demands / Working Conditions:

  • Must have the physical strength, dexterity, and coordination sufficient to perform the above functions.
  • Must be able to bend, squat, kneel, stand and walk long distances for extended periods of time.
  • Must be able to work out-of-doors and under glass in Central Virginia seasonal extremes.
  • Must have the ability to push, pull and/or lift 50 pounds repeatedly.
  • Note: Duties described above, other duties and physical demands have been identified as essential.

Education and Experience:

Required

  • One year of experience as a professional gardener or groundskeeper.
  • Possession of a valid driver's license.
  • Other combinations of education/experience appropriate to the job will be considered.

Preferred

  • An Associate's degree in Horticulture, Botany, Plant Science, or a related field.

Each Employee of Lewis Ginter

  • Must comply with provisions of the current Employee Handbook, all published personnel policies and the requirements of their individual job descriptions.
  • Must conduct herself or himself and perform all duties in a manner consistent with a public garden serving multigenerational and multicultural individuals and families, and in accordance with directed practices and procedures.
  • Must be aware of surroundings and vigilant to threats to the safety of visitors, volunteers, and staff or to the security of their property, ensuring that all concerns are reported promptly.
  • Must report all mishaps, injuries, and incidents immediately and ultimately in writing to supervisor(s) and to Human Resources.
  • Must ensure compliance with all applicable federal and state laws and regulations.
  • Must perform other duties as assigned by supervisor.

To apply, please send resume and cover letter to [email protected]

Internship Openings

 

MARKETING INTERN 

The Marketing Department strives to build the Lewis Ginter Botanical brand and support the mission to connect people to plants by inspiring communities to explore and conserve nature. This is a paid internship; hours are flexible but require a minimum of 150 hours per semester and 10-15 hours per week.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Assist in supporting the Garden’s social media efforts. This involves monitoring (including some weekends) and creating content.
  • Write for the Garden’s blog.
  • Help make updates to the Garden’s website.
  • Post Garden info to websites such as tourism sites and media calendars.
  • Take and upload digital photos and video of the Garden.
  • Assist with events as needed.
  • Provide general office and project support for the Marketing Department.
  • Work with the Chief Marketing Officer and Digital Content Strategist to help meet the needs of reporters and photographers.

QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Experience using social media; experience using for a business or brand is a plus. (Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn, Pinterest and TikTok.)
  • Strong writing and communication skills.
  • Ability to work on computers and use a digital camera.
  • Some simple graphic design skills and the ability to use or to learn Photoshop and WordPress.
  • Should be prepared to work in a business environment, including meeting deadlines, working alone and as part of a team, and multitasking.

INTERNSHIP TRAINING INCLUDES:

  • Social media use in a business setting.
  • Writing blog posts and optimizing content for SEO.
  • Building photography, videography and graphic skills.
  • Marketing and public relations experience in a non-profit setting

TO APPLY:

Candidates are asked to submit the following to [email protected]:

  • Resume
  • a writing sample (preferably a blog post, news article or social media post)
  • An informal cover letter detailing your interest in the specific internship and how you hope this experience will help you reach your educational and career goals. Please also let us know if you plan to pursue this internship for credit and list your scheduling availability (start/end dates, days/times available)
  • Optional: links to social media account/s
  • In addition, we ask candidates to have at least one recommendation on LinkedIn

DEADLINES FOR APPLICATIONS:

Spring Semester/December 15th
Summer/March 15th