Salary: $17.00 to $24.00 per hour

Job Description

Under the guidance of the Horticulture Section Leaders, Horticulturists implement 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

• Work 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.
• Maintain various established demonstration-quality growing strategies including in-ground plantings, raised beds, containers gardening, various vertical-growing models, companion planting, etc., plus contribute new ideas and techniques.
• Diligently tend to plant health by applying organic, ecosystem-based, sustainable Integrated Pest Management (IPM) strategies including biological, mechanical, and cultural Coordinate scouting and control treatments with IPM Horticulturist.
• Partner with Marketing for the promotion of horticulture by supporting development of blogposts, social media, etc.
• Interact with the public on an informal basis by answering questions, providing directions, etc.
• Lead and supervise Assistant Horticulturists, Seasonal Gardeners, interns, volunteers, and corporate groups. Collaborate with Manager of Volunteers.
• 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 standards of
  • 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.
• Support plant records work to advance our botanical collections.
• Work assigned schedule to include evenings, weekends, occasional holidays, and special events at the Gardens, like GardenFest.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the Horticulture Section Leaders or their designee.

Skills and Abilities

• Knowledge of and experience with edible landscapes and/or agricultural crop maintenance practices and plant care appropriate to the region.
• Strong work ethic, keen interest in sustainable agriculture and organic food production, and an enthusiasm for physical work outdoors.
• 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.
• The ability to operate 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
• Must be available to work evenings, weekends, and occasional holidays, ensuring coverage for Horticulture and for special events at the Garden, including GardenFest, outside the traditional work week/day.

Physical Demands / Working Conditions

• The physical strength, dexterity, and coordination are 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

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

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 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 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.

Note:  This position is represented by International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers, AFL-CIO, to discuss the specific needs of your group, please reach out to 804-359-4058.

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

Salary: $15.00 per hour

Job Description

The Facilities Assistant supports multiple departments to ensure an extraordinary guest experience during fluctuating visitation, seasonal work needs, rental event preparations and special event support and execution. This position assists in day-to-day functions throughout the Garden campus, including custodial cleaning duties, preparation, and coordination for private and public events and exhibits under the supervision of the Director of Operations. Visitation, event schedules, seasonal needs, and priority tasks will determine assignments and hours divided among these support departments.

Responsibilities and Requirements

• Assist in maintaining the highest aesthetic standard for the Garden by cleaning and
sanitizing Garden facilities and grounds.
• Collect and remove litter, trash, and recycling from facilities and grounds.
• Clean and disinfect restroom facilities, public spaces, and staff work areas.
• Dust and clean furniture, windows, and other surfaces.
• Performs deep cleaning tasks, such as carpet and floor cleaning, window washing, or
scrubbing hard-to-reach areas.
• Maintain cleaning and consumable supplies in facilities, working areas, storage areas, and equipment.
• Report any issues, safety hazards, or areas in need of major repairs or attention to
management.
• Assist in setting up and cleaning for events, meetings, or special functions, including set-up and breakdown of tents, tables, chairs, etc., for all ongoing events.
• Move and transport supplies and delivery items between campus facilities
• Install and disassemble garden exhibits, including: Light installation, display setup, construction for securing displays, running extension cords, etc.
• Provide information and directions to visitors and guests of the Garden or appropriately direct them to the Robins Visitors Center for assistance
• General repair and maintenance of all structures, vehicles, equipment, and utilities
• Maintain accurate maintenance records
• Assist with special construction and maintenance projects
• Use departmental communication tools effectively and correctly, including set-up sheets, scheduling task lists, clock-in computers, and radios
• Respond to requests of all departments/staff members for Operations assistance, as directed by the supervisor.
• Other job-related duties as assigned.

General Responsibilities

• Delivers excellent customer service in all facets of work.
• Ability to multi-task in a fast-paced environment with attention to detail.
• Able to move from task to task and remain flexible to changing assignments as needed.
• Required to have a flexible work schedule and willing and able to work weekends and
evenings as required by dynamic special event schedule.
• Acts as a contact person in case of emergencies and reports situation to appropriate parties, using required reporting procedures, as well as contacting 911 for assistance when needed.
• Handles difficult situations with tact and respect and reports issues to supervisor in a timely manner with accurate details.

Skills and Abilities / Core Competencies

• Familiarity with safe use of common hand tools.
• Ability to use common digital and electronic communication systems.
• Ability to work collaboratively with diverse others in a team environment.
• Ability to read and interpret product labels, operating manuals, and equipment instructions.

Physical Demands / Working Conditions

• Must be able to work for extended periods in one location, standing, bending, stooping, climbing stairs, lifting and transporting supplies by hand or by cart.
• Must be able and willing to walk the Garden grounds and move readily between buildings and outside areas.
• Must be able to lift 50 pounds repeatedly.
• Must be willing to work in all weather conditions based on given assignment.
• Must be comfortable working using ladders, lifts, scaffolding, and similar equipment
observing all safety instructions and training provided.

Note: Duties described above, other duties and physical demands have been identified as essential.

Education and Experience

• High school education or GED required
• Familiarity with standard commercial cleaning practices
• 1 year prior experience working with the public in a hospitality setting preferred
• Bilingual with a preference for conversational fluency in Spanish helpful.

Please note: This position is represented by International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers, AFL-CIO. To discuss the specific needs of your group, please reach out to 804-359-4058.

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

Salary: $15.00 per hour

Job Description

The Public Safety Specialist monitors and patrols the Garden campus, remaining visible to help deter security-related incidents and provide a welcoming presence for visitors and staff. Responsibilities include conducting routine patrols, responding to safety situations as needed, and furthering efforts to create a safe experience on the entire campus.

Responsibilities

• Provide shared safety services to project a security presence, including inspecting and providing incident response services, alarm calls, service calls, maintaining communication contact with appropriate personnel to report status or incidents, or to request additional assistance or response.
• Conduct regular and random surveillance patrols on foot and in motorized vehicles throughout the Garden campus, secures its facilities and perimeter to help deter unauthorized activity and identify potential concerns.
• Monitor visitor access and secure premises to prevent unauthorized entry, including opening and closing the Garden grounds and assigned areas during maintenance and emergencies.
• Prepare reports of observations, information, suspicious activities, and incidents.
• Assist and facilitate emergency response activities and first responders during any police, fire, or EMT activity.
• Manages and directs traffic, including load-in & load-out, service road access, and parking.
• Completes on-the-job training and relevant security training programs, including CPR/First Aid/AED, Fire Alarms, Fire extinguisher usage, water rescue, and Garden safety protocols.
• Cross-trains with other departments to support Garden needs.
• Other duties as assigned.

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 the supervisor.

Physical Demands / Working Conditions

• Must be able to move throughout the 82-acre Garden property, as needed.
• Work hours vary according to Garden programming and operating hours and include evenings, weekends, and holidays.
• 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 public in a safe and friendly manner.
• Must be comfortable working solo on patrols/rounds/events.
• Lift and carry up to 30 lbs. on an occasional basis.

Note: Duties described above, other duties, and physical demands have been identified as essential.

Education and Experience

• A strong background in Public Safety or Security experience required.
• Other combinations of education/ experience appropriate to the job will be considered.

Please submit a cover letter and resume to  [email protected].

Salary: $15 per hour

Job Description

The Seasonal Facilities Assistant supports multiple departments to ensure an extraordinary guest experience during fluctuating visitation, seasonal work needs, rental event preparations and special event support and execution. This position assists in day-to-day functions throughout the Garden campus, including custodial cleaning duties, preparation, and coordination for private and public events and exhibits under the supervision of the Director of Operations. Visitation, event schedules, seasonal needs, and priority tasks will determine assignments and hours divided among these support departments.

This is a temporary position working during Dominion Energy GardenFest of Lights from September through February.

Responsibilities and Requirements

• Assist in maintaining the highest aesthetic standard for the Garden by cleaning and sanitizing Garden facilities and grounds.
• Collect and remove litter, trash, and recycling from facilities and grounds.
• Clean and disinfect restroom facilities, public spaces, and staff work areas.
• Dust and clean furniture, windows, and other surfaces.
• Performs deep cleaning tasks, such as carpet and floor cleaning, window washing, or scrubbing hard-to-reach areas.
• Maintain cleaning and consumable supplies in facilities, working areas, storage areas, and equipment.
• Report any issues, safety hazards, or areas in need of major repairs or attention to management.
• Assist in setting up and cleaning for events, meetings, or special functions, including set-up and breakdown of tents, tables, chairs, etc., for all ongoing events.
• Move and transport supplies and delivery items between campus facilities
• Install and disassemble garden exhibits, including: Light installation, display setup, construction for securing displays, running extension cords, etc.
• Provide information and directions to visitors and guests of the Garden, or appropriately direct them to the Robins Visitors Center for assistance
• General repair and maintenance of all structures, vehicles, equipment, and utilities
• Maintain accurate maintenance records
• Assist with special construction and maintenance projects
• Use departmental communication tools effectively and correctly, including set-up sheets, scheduling task lists, clock-in computers, and radios
• Respond to requests of all departments/staff members for Operations assistance, as directed by the supervisor.
• Other job-related duties as assigned.

General Responsibilities

• Delivers excellent customer service in all facets of work.
• Ability to multitask in a fast-paced environment with attention to detail.
• Able to move from task to task and remain flexible to changing assignments as needed.
• Required to have a flexible work schedule and willing and able to work weekends and evenings as required by the dynamic special event schedule.
• Acts as a contact person in case of emergencies and reports the situation to appropriate parties, using required reporting procedures, as well as contacting 911 for assistance when needed.
• Handles difficult situations with tact and respect and reports issues to the supervisor in a timely manner with accurate details.

Skills and Abilities / Core Competencies

• Familiarity with the safe use of common hand tools.
• Ability to use common digital and electronic communication systems.
• Ability to work collaboratively with diverse others in a team environment.
• Ability to read and interpret product labels, operating manuals, and equipment instructions.

Physical Demands / Working Conditions

• Must be able to work for extended periods in one location, standing, bending, stooping, climbing stairs, lifting, and transporting supplies by hand or by cart.
• Must be able and willing to walk the Garden grounds and move readily between buildings and outside areas.
• Must be able to lift 50 pounds repeatedly.
• Must be willing to work in all weather conditions based on the given assignment.
• Must be comfortable working using ladders, lifts, scaffolding, and similar equipment, observing all safety instructions and training provided.

Note: Duties described above, other duties, and physical demands have been identified as essential.

Education and Experience

• High school education or GED required
• Familiarity with standard commercial cleaning practices
• 1 year of prior experience working with the public in a hospitality setting is preferred
• Bilingual with a preference for conversational fluency in Spanish is helpful.

Please submit a cover letter and resume to  [email protected].

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 20 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