Chief Operating Officer

Salary Range

80,000 – 100,000/ year

Job Summary

The Chief Operating Officer provides visionary leadership of Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden to support daily operations for visitation, events and guest amenities. As a member of the Garden’s Leadership Team, the COO works collaboratively to advance the organizational culture of the Garden in alignment with the mission, vision, and goals. The COO oversees the Guest Services Departments, including Admissions, Garden Shop, Facility Event Rentals, Public Safety, and Food and Beverage offerings. This proactive, empathetic leader ensures support staffing and department structures to amplify an excellent guest experience, as well as accomplish revenue goals critical to supporting the organizational mission.

Responsibilities

Leadership

• Serves on Leadership Team and participates in strategic planning to advance the accessibility and relevance of our Garden for the Community.
• Demonstrates collaboration with other Garden Departments for progressing our culture of Guest Services, Safety, Leadership, and Communication.
• Proactively anticipates needs of their team, ensures Guest-facing divisions have the resources needed to excel at their role, and plan for future growth.
• Actively participates with the Board of Directors, Board Committees, Garden sponsors, and constituents.
• Partners with the Advancement Team for fundraising and stewardship initiatives in support of Garden priorities.
• Fosters collaboration with Marketing Team to share and promote Garden/Reserve accomplishments and aspirations.
• Serves our local community through meaningful engagement opportunities.
• Pursues leadership opportunities in regional and national cultural associations, societies, and/or groups.
• Serves as a champion and advocate for volunteers participating in guest-facing divisions.

Guest Services

• Provides leadership to Guest Services, Public Safety, Facility Events, and Garden Shop Staff and Volunteers to ensure the highest level of guest service indicative of a nationally recognized botanical garden.
• Promotes and implements best practice standards of Guest-Centric Hospitality.
• Provides KPIs for Admissions, Garden Shop, Facility Rental, and Public Safety, using available databases to ensure Garden wide access for reporting, communications, and strategic planning purposes.
• Oversees Free Community Days planning logistics and staffing needs.
• Oversees the Gardens food and beverage services, communicating with CEO/CFO on subsidy/agreement terms impact on the budget, and serves as POC for guest and rental client issues.
• Represents the Guest Services Departments during the planning and execution of Garden-wide events and exhibitions (like GardenFest) in order to elevate the guest experience and achieve revenue goals.
• Participates in Garden Gatherings as needed and appropriate to the subject matter.
• Provides support for oversight of public safety efforts and manager-on-duty needs.
• Leads and supports efforts to drive Garden-wide efficiency of systems, processes, and procedures.

Administration

• Supports staffing needs that allow for the strategic growth and resourcing of the Guest Services Departments, including interviewing, hiring, training, supervising, and performance assessment, with the ability to coach counsel and transition staff.
• Supports volunteer management efforts by appropriately assisting with placement, training, coaching, and transitioning, as well as developing meaningful ways to nurture and recognize volunteers on an ongoing basis.
• Empowers directors/managers in the recruitment and development of their teams within their sections.
• Works collaboratively with directors/managers to determine annual budget needs, authorize expenditures, manage assigned budgets, and provide reports.
• Creates a positive work environment through effective and regular communication, being an approachable leader, and actively seeking input and suggestions.

Skills and Abilities

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Excellent interpersonal, negotiation, and conflict-resolution skills.
• Proactive and responsive, ensuring anticipation of Departmental needs to benefit Garden operations.
• Well-organized, detail-oriented, possessing an intuitive understanding of guest interactions and expectations, pedestrian traffic flow, and event and program logistics.
• Able to work independently as well as in a team environment.
• Technical proficiency with computers, databases, and Microsoft software programs (including Microsoft Outlook, Teams, Excel, Word, and PowerPoint).

Physical Demands / Working Conditions

• Able to move between periods of sitting at a desk and computer work to standing for long periods of time and walking from facility to facility and around an 82-acre Garden property.
• Able to lift 15-20 pounds as needed.

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

Required:

• BS in Business Administration and management, hospitality, or a related field is preferred.
• Minimum of 7 years of relevant experience managing staff and volunteers in a diverse, multi-faceted visitor-based environment.
• Experience overseeing multiple departments, able to work as part of a team, and interact well, calmly, and cheerfully with visitors, customers, volunteers, and staff.
• Demonstrated experience working in a fast-paced environment, multi-tasking, and making quick decisions.
• Comfortable working with people, often in large group settings.

Please submit a cover letter and resume to hr@lewisginter.org.

Assistant Horticulturist

Salary Range

Commensurate w/ Experience

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 principals, 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 Reserve.
• 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 ATV’s, 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 regulations.
• Participate in group projects with other horticulture staff and in cross-departmental projects.
• Assist with the care of our natural areas including our meadows and woodlands.
• Work with Horticulture Volunteers.
• 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.
• 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.
• Willing to work weekends, evenings, and holidays, when needed.

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 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.

To apply, please submit a cover letter and resume to hr@lewisginter.org.

Exhibit Lighting Coordinator

Salary Range

$15-$20 per hour

Job Description

The Exhibit Lighting Coordinator leads the design, planning, installation, and de-installation of indoor and outdoor displays for GardenFest of Lights and other major seasonal Garden exhibits. They are responsible for developing and implementing the design plan, will serve as a Manager on Duty during the exhibition, and will supervise the volunteers who assist with light fabrication and installation/de-installation. The Exhibit Lighting Coordinator supports seasonal exhibition planning, installation, and de-installation year-round in addition to providing visual display and lighting support for other events.

The Exhibit Lighting Coordinator will be forward thinking, innovative, team-oriented, and adaptable, with a proven record of success in designing and managing lighting displays and/or exhibitions. The successful candidate will be current with visual trends and will be willing to travel to network and learn from other light shows.

Responsibilities

• Designs the indoor and outdoor displays for GardenFest of Lights:
  • Travels to other light displays, buying markets, and vendors for lighting design inspiration, training, and purchasing.
  • Coordinates with vendors and community partners, including negotiating and writing agreements, processing purchase orders, and supervising projects.
  • Collaborates cross-departmentally with staff and volunteers who assist with the design of spaces and vignettes.
• Coordinates the year-round planning and logistics:
  • Develops a timeline and schedule that reflects staff, volunteer, and partner/vendor resources.
  • Develops and maintains the design plan and the records of the display collections.
  • Responsible for the physical inventory and storage of lights, display collections, and exhibition infrastructure.
• Supervises and manages the fabrication and implementation of the exhibition:
  • Provides staff and volunteer training for installation/de-installation tasks.
  • Leads the installation and de-installation process in the Garden, fostering teamwork by modeling best practices alongside our staff and volunteers.
  • Serves as one of the evening Managers on Duty for GardenFest and other relevant exhibitions throughout the year.
• Supports the Exhibitions Manager with planning and implementing seasonal changing exhibitions year round:
  • Provides lighting and visual display support for other exhibits and special events.
  • Participates in the weekly cross-departmental logistics meeting.

Skills and Abilities

• Excellent volunteer management and group facilitation skills.
• Must be able to initiate, build and sustain relationships with fellow staff, volunteers, and community partners.
• Communicates effectively with diverse ages, backgrounds and all abilities.
• Highly organized and detail-oriented.
• Ability to productively switch between multiple tasks/types of work within a single day.
• Ability to handle day-to-day operations while also planning months ahead.
• Works well independently as well as thrives in a team environment; adaptable and solution-oriented.
• Technical proficiency with computers including Microsoft Office and Excel.
• 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.

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

• A minimum of 2 years of successful experience in managing light displays, exhibitions, or events.
• Demonstrated knowledge of lighting design with a dedication to keeping current with visual trends. Experience with electrical infrastructure preferred.
• Associates degree or technical training; a combination of education and equivalent experience may be considered.
• Prior experience in a botanical garden, museum, or cultural non-profit preferred.

To apply, please submit a cover letter and resume to hr@lewisginter.org.

Public Safety Manager

Salary Range

$25 – $30 per hour

Position Type

FT – 37.5 hours per week weekends/nights required (schedule based on visitation and events)

Job Summary

The Public Safety Manager supports all aspects of the Garden’s operational safety and security functions to ensure the health and safety of guests, staff, and volunteers. This position works collaboratively with the Garden’s Leadership Team and the Manager on Duty (MOD) to establish, review and maintain safety procedures to mitigate hazards and provide emergency support when necessary. The Public Safety Manager is a working supervisory position responsible for the development of safety procedures, training, recruitment and direction of support staff that ensure a culture of safety and security of all Garden areas and assets during daily programs, events and exhibitions.

This position exemplifies our core value of hospitality and responsibility to ensure a world-class guest experience to all and ensures all tasks are performed in alignment with Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden’s core values and strategic plan

Job Responsibilities

• Develops and leads Gardens Safety protocols, procedures and trainings.
  • Plans, updates and provides ongoing Garden Safety Protocol training for staff to include lost children/adults, weather emergencies, power outages and community safety concerns.
  • Co-leads Garden Safety Committee to identify, assess and report maintenance, operational or safety concerns and issues.
  • Serves as the liaison to local and state agencies to provide current safety communications, trainings, and facilitate tabletop exercises for staff, including CPR/First Aid/AED certifications.
  • Works with VP of Facilities to update, test, and maintain Fire Alarms, Campus Wide Security Monitoring Systems, etc.
  • Supervises emergencies in coordination with appropriate staff; reports to location of incident, dispatches staff to assist in directing emergency vehicles, etc. and ensures all reports/documents of incidents are complete and communicated to the proper departments.
• Supervises Public Safety Associates/Safety Contractors.
  • Oversees all activities of the Public Safety Department, ensures work aligns with organizational goals, and team members are demonstrating the Garden core values at all times.
  • Cultivates and expands a sense of purpose and connection of Public Safety team to Garden mission and activities.
  • Responsible for efficient scheduling of support staff for daily/nightly activities to ensure public safety presence whenever we have guests at the Garden including weekends, heavy visitation periods, and special exhibitions.
  • Successfully manages all department team members including interviewing, hiring, training, supervising and performance assessment, with the ability to, coach, counsel, and if necessary, terminate staff.
  • Responsible for appropriate procurement/purchasing responsibilities and managing departmental budget.
  • Attends meetings to ensure thorough understanding of events, visitation and hours of planned activity on campus and transition needs from day operations to evening events.
  • Ensures proper safety/security coverage of PS team, through communications with Garden staff/contracted service providers.
• Communicates openly and has a visible presence for all staff and guests during all Garden activities.
  • Maintains a comprehensive understanding of all daily activities, seasonal and annual programs and events.
  • Carries a dedicated security cell phone and two-way radio at all times during work hours.
  • Walks the Garden campus, engages with guests, staff, students, volunteers, food service contractor, staying in close proximity to activities, ensuring safety measures are in place, and teams are prepared for emergencies.
  • Monitors/reports inclement weather conditions that may affect the safety of guests, staff and v0lunteers and participates with VPOF/VPOH/MOD for any preparation needs or post event safety assessment and clean up needs.
  • Stays knowledgeable of and coordinates with Garden Leadership in the execution of the Gardens Disaster Preparedness Plan.
• Manages Garden parking, security and closure.
  • Monitors parking demands during highly attended events, manages traffic and directs vehicles to available parking areas and coordinating outsourced HPD support as needed.
  • Sweeps Garden of all guests at closing time in a friendly and courteous manner.
  • Secures Garden entry and exit gates for closure.
  • Ensures security of facilities and activation of alarms at end of business.
  • Turns off campus lighting breakers as needed.

Physical Demands / Working Conditions

• Must be able to work outdoors and navigate the Garden’s campus in all seasonal weather conditions.
• Must be able to lift 25 pounds intermittently.
• Must be able to walk quickly between all garden venues regularly and walk or stand for periods.
• This 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

• Bachelors’ degree or 5 years of equivalent experience working with the public in customer service capacity.
• A strong background in Public Safety and OSHA experience is required.
• Previous managerial and public safety training experience required.
• Demonstrated ability to develop and work with peers, co-workers and volunteers.
• Experience and demonstrated sensitivity in working with persons of various ethnic and economic backgrounds on staff and within our community.
• Conversational Spanish preferable.
• Other combinations of education/experience appropriate to the role.

Baseline Knowledge/Requirements

• Computer knowledge or willingness to learn systems for receiving and communicating information:
  • Microsoft Outlook, Word, Excel, Work Order Systems, Active Net, TAM.
• Experience leading safety and security trainings; CPR/First Aid/AED, Fire Alarms, Safety Protoc0l, etc.
• Excellent problem solving skills with outstanding communicati0ns (written and verbal).
• Excellent organizational skills with high attention to detail.
• Highly responsible and reliable with a professional presentation.
• Ability to work nights, weekends and holidays.
• Possesses a valid driver’s license required to operate Garden vehicles.

Please submit cover letter, resume, and Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden Job Application to hr@lewisginter.org.

Garden Shop Assistant Manager/Buyer

Salary Range

$44,500 – $50,212

Job Summary

The Garden Shop is 5,000 square feet of retail space and generates revenue from the sale of books, unique gifts, pots, statuary, jewelry, clothing and holiday ornaments. Proceeds from Garden Shop directly support the Garden’s mission as being a primary resource for learning about the botanical world.

This position demonstrates our core value of hospitality by ensuring that customer service is first and foremost. We achieve this by providing a welcoming and helpful experience to all guests, and demonstrating a positive and supportive environment for staff and volunteers.

Job Responsibilities

Buyer/Visual Display:

• Assists the Manager in buying merchandise that will meet or exceed sales margin goals, tells our brands story and compliments the work of other departments, and supports the mission.
• Understands current buying trends, and the importance of finding locally sourced merchandise and attaining a diversified, inclusive resource of vendors.
• Creates visual displays that are an extension of the guest experience, tells the story of exhibits and mission, entices existing and new customers, boosts sales and increases revenue.
• Assists with restocking and reordering merchandise at manager’s direction.

General:

• Assists in running the day to day operations of the Garden Shop including, opening and closing, cash handling, daily deposits and merchandise processing.
• Is friendly, outgoing, and approachable, is positive, upbeat, motivates staff and volunteers and enjoys working with people of all ages, ethnic and economic backgrounds.
• Assists the Manager in coordinating volunteer schedules and training and serves as a point of contact as needed for returns, questions, special orders.
• Able to problem-solve quickly and report issues to manager immediately and with accurate details.
• Presents oneself with a professional, yet friendly attitude and appearance.

Marketing/Promotion:

• Works in coordination with Shop Manager on promotions, sales opportunities and shop events throughout the year.
• Partners with the Marketing Department by providing photos and descriptive language for weekly/monthly promos, blogs, new product selection.

Required

• 3 – 5 years buying/visual display experience in similar boutique retail shop.
• 3 years cashier or money handling experience in the retail industry.
• Experience with accounts payable, invoicing, pricing and creating purchase orders.
• Able to work weekends and evenings during regular season and during special events.
• Ability to work in a supervised and an unsupervised environment.

Physical Demands / Working Conditions

• Able to stand for long periods of time and walking up and down steps repeatedly.
• Able to lift 15-20 pounds as needed.

Education and Experience

• High School Graduate or equivalent.
• Associates Degree preferred but not required.
• A minimum of 4 years’ experience working with the public or in a customer service capacity.
• Demonstrated ability to develop and work with peers, co-workers and volunteers.
• Experience and demonstrated sensitivity in working with persons of various ethnic and economic backgrounds on staff and within community.

Please submit a resume to hr@lewisginter.org.

Vice President, Horticulture

Salary Range

$35 – 52/ hr

Job Description

The Vice President (VP) of Horticulture provides visionary leadership of Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden’s Horticulture Department and the daily operations of the Lewis Ginter Nature Reserve. As a member of the Garden’s Leadership Team, the VP works collaboratively to advance the organizational culture of the Garden in alignment with mission, vision and values. The VP establishes and maintains the highest aesthetic standards for horticultural and landscape display excellence. As a connected member in the horticulture, botanic and arboretum community, the VP will expand the Garden’s professional network to curate and grow our botanical collections in accordance with our plant collections policy. The proactive, intuitive, and empathetic leader will have a passion for the natural world, love for plants, and a desire for new, innovative, and evocative garden displays that delight, heal, and celebrate diversity.

Responsibilities

• Leadership
  • Serves on Leadership Team and participates in strategic planning to advance the accessibility and relevance of our Garden/Reserve for the Community.
  • Demonstrates collaboration with other Garden Departments for progressing our culture of Guest Services, Safety, Leadership and Communication.
  • Proactively anticipates needs of their team, ensures Horticulture has the tools to excel at their role, and plans for future growth.
  • Actively participate with Board of Directors, Board Committees, Garden sponsors and constituents.
  • Partners with Advancement Team for fundraising and stewardship initiatives to amplify Horticultural, Botanical, and Sustainable priorities.
  • Fosters collaboration with Marketing team to share and promote Garden/Reserve accomplishments and aspirations.
  • Serves our local community through meaningful engagement opportunities.
  • Pursues leadership opportunities in regional and national horticultural associations, societies, and/or groups.
  • Serves as a champion and advocate for volunteers participating in the Horticulture Department.
• Horticulture, Collections, Design and Display
  • Provides leadership to Horticulture Staff and Volunteers to ensure the highest aesthetic standard indicative of a nationally recognized botanical garden.
  • Promotes and implements best practice standards of garden care and maintenance to include: modification of soil conditions, irrigation, and other environmental factors to support plant health and ecological diversity.
  • Advances our plant collections in accordance with our Plant Collections Policy and works collaboratively with other gardens, arboreta, plant societies, nurseries etc. to build and diversify collections for conservation, education, inspiration and accreditation.
  • Provides leadership to ensure excellence of plant record keeping in the Garden/Reserve including plant accessions, labels, cultivation information and their appropriate curation in our living collections database.
  • Promotes and implements integrated and regenerative environmental practices for Garden/Reserve stewardship.
  • Oversees horticultural maintenance, construction, installation, and renovation, as well as associated outsourced contractors.
  • Engages with community for lectures, workshops, classes, etc. and serves as an informed resource for horticulture regionally.
• Administration
  • Supports staffing and volunteer needs that allow for the strategic growth and resourcing of the Horticulture Department including interviewing, hiring, training, supervising, and performance assessment, with the ability to coach, counsel and transition staff and volunteers.
  • Empowers Horticulture Section Leaders and Managers in the recruitment and development of their teams within their Garden sections.
  • Works collaboratively with Horticulture Department Section Leaders to determine annual budget needs, authorize expenditures, manage assigned budgets and provide reports.
  • Creates a positive work environment through effective and regular communication, being an approachable leader and actively seeking input and suggestions.

Additional Duties

• Maintains professional privacy and confidentiality.
• Actively participates in staff training and department meetings.
• Fosters collaboration with other garden, arboreta, and horticultural leaders.
• Weekend, evening and holiday hours as needed.

Skills and Abilities

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including public speaking and group facilitation.
• Excellent interpersonal, negotiation, and conflict resolution skills.
• Proactive and responsive ensuring anticipation of Departmental needs to benefit efficient Garden operations.
• Expertise and experience with pesticide certification and ISA certification.
• Well-organized and detail-oriented, able to work independently as well as in a team environment.
• Technical proficiency with computers, databases, Microsoft software programs (including Microsoft Outlook, Teams, Excel, Word and PowerPoint)
• Ability to use Garden’s plant records system.
• Ability to manage a budget.

Physical Demands / Working Conditions

• Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and computer work.
• 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

Required:

• Master’s degree in Horticulture, landscape design, botany, biology, or closely related field. An equivalent combination of skills, education, and experience may be considered.
• Valid Driver’s License
• Minimum of seven years relevant and increasingly responsible horticulture management experience, inclusive of planning, managing a diverse team, and managing a variety of horticultural operations at a public garden or arboretum.

Please submit a resume to hr@lewisginter.org.

Accounts Receivable Coordinator

Salary Range

$16 – $18 per hour

Job Description

The Accounts Receivable (AR) Coordinator will provide financial, clerical and administrative support by ensuring the receipt of payments received from multiple revenue centers and the proper recording and posting are performed in an efficient, timely and accurate manner. This role requires adherence to related internal controls, processes and procedures.

Responsibilities

• Record and post multiple revenue center payments into the general ledger system from varying software platforms and departments; to include cash, check, and credit card transactions.
• Reconcile accounts receivable ledger to ensure proper accounting and posting of all payments.
• Verify account discrepancies by investigating and working with internal departments to resolve and reconcile any irregularities.
• Generate and summarize cash receipt statements daily with appropriate documentation and reports.
• Perform monthly bank reconciliations.
• Examine credit card charge backs and report to the appropriate revenue center.
• Maintain account receivable files and records.
• Assist in general financial management and analysis.
• Support other accounting and finance/administration team members.
• Protects the organizations’ value by keeping all information confidential.

Skills and Abilities

• Previous experience and working knowledge with non-profit accounting software MIP/Abila preferred.
• Familiarity with software platforms TAM, ActiveNet, and Raisers Edge/Blackbaud desired.
• Experience and working knowledge of Excel spreadsheets and Microsoft Office.
• Basic understanding and knowledge of accounting principles.
• Experience with general reconciliation processes.
• Self-manage workloads and initiate tasks.
• High degree of accuracy and attention to detail along with strong multi-tasking skills.
• Strong data entry skills.
• A desire and ability to work collaboratively with other team members and accomplish daily goals.
• Strong communication skills with relevant experience using modern communication systems, including e-mail and phone systems.

Employees 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, 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 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

• Prolonged periods of time in an office setting at a desk.
• 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

Preferred: Associates degree in Business, Accounting, or Finance.
Required: Minimum of three years in accounting/finance working role.

Please submit a cover letter and resume to hr@lewisginter.org.

Adult Guided Tour Specialist

Salary Range

$15-$17 / hour

Position Type

Regular Part-Time (average 20 hours/week)

Job Description

The part time Adult Guided Tour Specialist develops, coordinates, implements, and evaluates a diverse, equitable, accessible, and inclusive guided tour program designed for guests of all abilities to explore and understand the Garden’s collections and exhibitions. They manage a group of 15-20 guided group tour volunteers, the Garden Guides.

The ideal candidate is a skilled leader and facilitator, a detail-oriented people person, and a creative thinker with knowledge of and passion for the natural world. They possess the ability to guide content development, manage people and projects, and form productive and collaborative relationships across the Garden’s departments.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate and process adult guided tour reservations:
  • Field all adult guided tour requests.
  • Schedule tours using the Active Network database; manage payments, complete daily payment reporting, and prepare deposits.
  • Facilitate group tour package components in coordination with other departments.
  • Manage the adult guided tour presence on the Garden’s webpage using WordPress.
  • Monitor policies and procedures for group tour reservations, including advance scheduling, fee structures, cancellations, and refunds.
  • Greet adult guided tours and provide support for check-in details, when schedules allow.

• Coordinate, implement, and evaluate adult guided tour programming:

• • Collaborate with Adult Education team and Director of Volunteers to schedule tours and Garden Guides.
  • Provide registration assistance in Active Network for tour participants.
  • Greet tour participants and provide support for check-in, when schedules allow.
  • Ensure information is presented consistently and accurately using accessible and inclusive facilitation techniques.
  • Train in on tours to serve as a backup facilitator, when needed.

• Guide the ongoing growth and development of the volunteer-based Garden Guide program:
  • Work closely with Garden Guide leadership to coordinate monthly meetings, develop and evaluate interpretive content, and grow the guided tour program.
  • Oversee the continuing education of Garden Guides, including training curriculum, recruitment and orientation of new volunteers, coaching, and evaluation of tour techniques.
  • Assist in the production and promotion of the Bright Spots seasonal garden highlights document, led by a sub-team of the Garden Guides.

Skills and Abilities

• Excellent volunteer management skills.
• Strong communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Demonstrated experience, ability, and desire to build and sustain relationships with fellow staff, volunteers, and adult guided tour groups.
• Creative and innovative with the ability to make scholarly information accessible to diverse audiences.
• Demonstrated awareness of design approaches and strategies to make content accessible to people with disabilities.
• Collaborative work style with the ability to work independently.
• Desire to work in a fast-paced environment.
• Organized and detail-oriented with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Technical proficiency with computers including Microsoft Office, database management, Adobe Creative Suite, WordPress, and/or Canva.
• Proficiency in conversational Spanish is desirable.
• Must be able to work varying hours, including some evenings, weekends, and occasional holidays.

Physical Demands / Working Conditions

• Ability to carry up to 30 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 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

• Bachelor’s degree in environmental education, museum education, museum studies, social sciences, horticulture, biology, environmental science or related field; a combination of education and equivalent experience will be considered.
• Strong knowledge of guest engagement and museum education theory and practice.
• Experience in public gardens, museum interpretation, museum education, or a cultural non-profit preferred.

Please submit cover letter and resume to hr@lewisginter.org.

Seasonal Gardener

Salary Range

$14.50/ hour

Position Type

FT/Seasonal (March – October)
37.5 hours/week

Job Description

Our Horticulture staff exhibits a tireless commitment to creating new and innovative gardens and displays that delight and inspire visitors of all ages and from all backgrounds.  We are committed to demonstrating the use and cultivation of a wide palette of native and exotic plants suitable for use in Central Virginia and strive to maintain our collections to the highest standards in an environmentally responsible way. We think independently, work collaboratively, and are unified in our passion for horticulture.  We come from diverse backgrounds and celebrate different ways of being, in ourselves and in others.

As an integral member of the Horticulture team, Seasonal Gardeners are responsible for assisting and supporting full-time Horticulture staff with the installation and care of the display gardens and horticultural collections, both outdoors and under glass. 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.

Job 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.o  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 with Horticulture Volunteers.
• Perform other duties as assigned by Senior Horticulturists, Director of Horticulture or his/her designee.

Skills and Abilities

• 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 identify frequently used woody, herbaceous, and annual landscape plants by common name.
• 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.
• The ability to operate push mowers, riding mowers, weed-whackers, backpack blowers, push blowers, garden ATVs, pickup trucks, chainsaws and other power equipment safely and effectively.
• The physical strength, dexterity, and coordination sufficient to perform the above functions.
• A willingness to interact with the public on an informal basis by answering questions, providing directions, etc.
• The ability to follow written and verbal instructions.
• Possession of a valid driver’s license.

Physical Demands / Working Conditions

• Must be able to lift 50 pounds repeatedly.
• Must be able to work out-of-doors in Central Virginia seasonal extremes.
• Must be able to bend, squat, kneel, stand and walk for extended periods of time.

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

• Preferred: A two-year Associate’s degree in Horticulture or a related field, or equivalent experience, plus one year’s experience as a professional gardener or groundskeeper.
• Also considered: Other combinations of education/experience appropriate to the job.

To apply, please send cover letter and resume to hr@lewisginter.org.

Garden Shop Floor Leader

Salary Range

$13 / hour

Position Type

25 hours/week = evenings required
Now – January 29, 2023

Job Description

The Garden Shop is 5,000 square feet of retail space and generates revenue from the sale of books, unique gifts, pots, statuary, jewelry, clothing and holiday ornaments.  Proceeds from Garden Shop directly support the Garden’s mission as being a primary resource for learning about the botanical world.

This position demonstrates our core value of hospitality by ensuring that customer service is first and foremost. We achieve this by providing a welcoming and helpful experience to all guests, and demonstrating a positive and supportive environment for staff and volunteers.

Job Responsibilities

• Provides exemplary customer service to all guests, volunteers and staff visiting the Shop:
  • Must be friendly, outgoing and enjoy working with people of all ages, ethnic and economic backgrounds.
  • Leads by example by possessing a positive, upbeat presence on the sales floor that motivates others.
  • Works well in a team atmosphere alongside staff and volunteers.
• Demonstrates ability to work well under pressure while multi-tasking in a fast paced environment.
• Able to problem-solve quickly and report issues to manager immediately and with accurate details.
• Presents oneself with a professional, yet friendly attitude and appearance.
• Assists in running the day to day operations of the Garden Shop:
  • Executes opening and closing procedures, runs registers with accurate cash handling and daily deposit tasking, cleaning and stocking.
  • Providing floor coverage to assist shoppers and retrieve needed merchandise for cashiers.
  • Supports shop leadership in promotions and marketing strategies, identifies sales opportunities and executing shop events.
• Works closely with the volunteers:
  • Training and mentoring at the cash registers.
  • Serves as point of contact for volunteer questions, concerns, provides assistance with refunds, exchanges, etc.
  • Ensures volunteers are engaged, helpful, and providing excellent customer service.
• Back office tasking:
  • Ensures timely check in and processing of new merchandise.
  • Expedites product to the sales floor quickly and efficiently.
  • Maintains a well-stocked and neat sales floor on a daily basis.

Required

• Able to work weekends and evenings during regular season and special events.
• 1 – 2 years cashier or money handling experience in the retail industry.
• Basic computer knowledge or the ability to learn.
• Ability to work in a supervised and an unsupervised environment.
• Willing to take initiative and to learn.
• Fluency in conversational Spanish preferred.

Physical Demands / Working Conditions

• Able to stand for long periods of time and walking up and down steps repeatedly.
• Able to lift 15-20 pounds as needed.

Education and Experience

• High School Graduate or equivalent.
• A minimum of 2 year’s experience working with the public or in a customer service capacity.
• Experience and demonstrated sensitivity in working with persons of various ethnic and economic backgrounds on staff and within community.

Please submit cover letter and resume to hr@lewisginter.org.

Marketing Intern 

The Marketing Department strives to build the Lewis Ginter Botanical brand through all communication and concentrates efforts on publicity or “free” exposure for the Garden.  By supporting all areas of the Garden, public relations and marketing work to entice people to visit and to engage them in a relationship with the Garden.

Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden connects people through plants to improve communities.

General job duties of Public Relations Interns:

• Work with the Chief Marketing Officer and Digital Content Strategist to help meet the needs of reporters and photographers.
• Help update calendar events on the Garden’s website
• Post Garden info to websites such as tourism sites and media calendars
• Research and write basic news releases
• Take and upload digital photos of the Garden
• Assist with events as needed
• Provide general office and project support for the Marketing Dept.
• Assist in supporting the Garden’s social media efforts as needed, including filming and editing movies.
• Write blog posts and tell stories for the Garden’s blog.

Qualifications:

• Strong writing & communication skills (experience blogging is a plus)
• Ability to work on computers and use a digital camera
• Some simple graphic design skills and the ability to use or to learn Photoshop & WordPress
• Should be prepared to work in a business environment
• Ability to meet deadlines
• Should be able to work alone and as part of a team
• Should be able to multitask
• Experience using Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram and Pinterest

Internship training includes:

• Social media training & using social media to connect with the community & to pitch stories
• Press release formats and AP style
• How to write to encourage news coverage and create public interest

This internship is offered year-round. Hours are flexible but require a minimum of 150 hours per semester and 10-15 hours per week. We also welcome interns and who are not students. This is a paid internship. 

Candidates are asked to submit the following to marketing@lewisginter.org:

• Resume
• 2 writing samples (preferably blog posts, news articles or social media posts)
• 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)

In addition, we ask candidates to have at least 2 recommendations on LinkedIn

Deadlines for applications:

Fall Semester/August 15
Spring Semester/November 30
Summer/March 15