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.

Full-Time Openings

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Salary: $15.00 to $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 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 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 regulations.
  • 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 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.
  • 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

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 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

  • 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 functions as required by the Americans with Disabilities Act.

Education and Experience

Required

  • One year of experience as a professional gardener or groundskeeper.
  • Virginia Pesticide Applicators 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.

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 hr@lewisginter.org.

Salary: $15.00 per hour

Job Description

The Custodial Assistant is responsible for assisting in day-to-day functions of the Garden with a primary focus on custodial and cleaning duties necessary to create an exceptional guest experience.  A successful candidate must have the ability to communicate effectively with staff of all levels and interact with Garden visitors and volunteers in a cheerful and positive manner. They must be able to work independently without supervision as well as alongside other members of the Operations team, in assisting with setup and breakdown of tables, chairs and other items required for Garden events.

Responsibilities:

  • Clean and maintain facilities including, but not limited to, cleaning and sanitizing restrooms and public areas, vacuuming, dusting, cleaning of windows, collecting recycling, emptying trash cans, floor cleaning and maintenance, and deep cleaning as requested
  • Clean facilities, rental spaces, classrooms and equipment between programs and event
  • The ability to operate floor finishing equipment
  • Police outdoor areas for litter and general cleanliness
  • Keep all storage areas clean, organized and stocked
  • Respond to requests of all departments/staff members for custodial and operations support, as directed by supervisor
  • Set and maintain high standards for the appearance of the interior and exterior of all buildings and public areas on a daily basis
  • Perform duties efficiently and effectively to include proper and safe use of cleaning supplies
  • Apprise supervisor of maintenance issues, repairs and supplies needed in a prompt manner
  • Use departmental communication tools effectively and correctly including radios, clock in computers and task list schedules

Required:

  • Good organizational, interpersonal, and communications skills
  • Evening, weekend, and holiday shifts are often required
  • Strong analytical skills and a self-motivated performer
  • Reliable mode of transportation
  • Related work experience

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 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).
  • Must ensure compliance with all applicable federal and state laws and regulations
  • Must perform other duties as assigned by supervisor

Physical Demands / Working Conditions

  • Must be able to walk the Garden’s campus in most weather conditions daily
  • Bending, stooping, climbing stairs, transporting supplies by hand or by cart
  • Must be able to lift objects up to 50 lbs. repeatedly
  • Must be comfortable working safely using step ladders

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

Education and Experience

  • High School diploma or equivalent

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.

Please submit a cover letter and resume to Human Resources at [email protected]

Part-Time Openings

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Salary: $15.00 per hour

Job Description
The Facility Events office coordinates over 300 events a year at the Garden in 12 different venues and gardens,
which includes corporate/nonprofit clients as well as private events and weddings. Proceeds from facility rentals directly support the Garden’s mission as being a primary resource for learning about the botanical world. This
position serves as a representative of the Garden to all event clients and guests for questions and coordination
needs during events and demonstrates our core value of hospitality by ensuring that customer service is first and
forem0st. We achieve this by providing a welcoming and helpful experience to all guests, and demonstrating a
positive and supportive environment for staff, guests and volunteers.

Responsibilities:
Day of Event –

  • Posts temporary event signage based on booked events/venues.
  • Inspects event venue(s) to ensure the physical event setup is complete and accurate and venue is ready for
    guests.
  • Supports the Food and Beverage provider for event setups and needs.
  • Works closely with client to ensure room or site setup is correct and assist with any AV setup.
  • Supports operations and custodial teams with last minute adjustments or needs.
  • Directs guests to appropriate parking areas and event entrances.
  • Greets and checks-in guests and provide event and/or basic Garden information as needed.
  • Assists late guests to venue and monitor venue for possible noise conflicts due to multiple events in the
    Garden.

Additional Responsibilities for Wedding Events –

  • Directs vendors to appropriate venue(s) based on vendor information form(s) and in compliance with rental
    contract terms and conditions.
  • Serves as liaison to bridal party or wedding planner upon arrival and during their set up, direct musicians as
    appropriate to ceremony or reception site location. Direct guests to appropriate parking areas and event
    entrances.
  • Ensures other FESA’s are in place as needed, if needed.
  • Monitors ceremony venue(s) for compliance with mandatory ceremony start time and rental term requiring
    acoustical ceremony music.
  • Direct guests from ceremony to reception venue and be accessible for guest questions.
  • Monitors reception music at Bloemendaal House to ensure compliance with rental term related to reception
    music start time and Henrico County noise ordinance.

Skills and Abilities

  • Excellent customer service and effective communications skills with people at all levels and in various
    settings via multiple communication tools.
  • Comfortable working face to face with guests.
  • Presents oneself with a professional, yet friendly attitude and appearance.
  • Proven ability to work with others in a cooperative and collaborative manner.
  • Ability to understand and differentiate priority of job responsibilities and customer requests.
  • Ability to multi-task in a fast-paced environment.
  • Works well under pressure, is able to problem solve quickly, and can respond to difficult situations and a
    kind and courteous manner.
  • Knowledgeable about facility rental terms and conditions, especially key terms that may affect multiple
    events.
  • Willingly integrates work of department with the efforts of other departments (particularly guest/visitor
    services, operations, and catering).
  • Make recommendations for facility rental event logistics.

Physical Demands / Working Conditions

  • Must be able to lift 20 pounds intermittently.
  • Must be able to work outdoors in all seasonal extremes.
  • Must be able to walk quickly between all garden venues.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

  • 2 years post high school education preferred.
  • 1-2 years customer service experience in food service or hospitality field.
  • General understanding of event coordination.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.

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 a cover letter and resume to [email protected]

Salary: $15.00 per hour

Job Description

The Custodial Assistant is responsible for assisting in day-to-day functions of the Garden with a primary focus on custodial and cleaning duties necessary to create an exceptional guest experience.  A successful candidate must have the ability to communicate effectively with staff of all levels and interact with Garden visitors and volunteers in a cheerful and positive manner. They must be able to work independently without supervision as well as alongside other members of the Operations team.

Responsibilities:

  • Clean and maintain facilities including, but not limited to, cleaning and sanitizing restrooms and public areas, vacuuming, dusting, cleaning of windows, collecting recycling, emptying trash cans, floor cleaning and maintenance, and deep cleaning as requested
  • Clean facilities, rental spaces, classrooms and equipment between programs and event
  • Police outdoor areas for litter and general cleanliness
  • Keep all storage areas clean, organized and stocked
  • Respond to requests of all departments/staff members for custodial and operations support, as directed by supervisor
  • Set and maintain high standards for the appearance of the interior and exterior of all buildings and public areas on a daily basis
  • Perform duties efficiently and effectively to include proper and safe use of cleaning supplies
  • Apprise supervisor of maintenance issues, repairs and supplies needed in a prompt manner
  • Use departmental communication tools effectively and correctly including radios, clock in computers and task list schedules

Required:

  • Good organizational, interpersonal, and communications skills
  • Ability to work nights and weekends
  • Strong analytical skills and a self-motivated performer
  • Reliable mode of transportation
  • Related work experience
  • Mechanical understanding and knowledge

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 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 the
  • Must ensure compliance with all applicable federal and state laws and regulations
  • Must perform other duties as assigned by supervisor

Physical Demands / Working Conditions

  • Must be able to walk the Garden’s campus in most weather conditions daily
  • Bending, stooping, climbing stairs, transporting supplies by hand or by cart
  • Must be able to lift objects up to 50 lbs. repeatedly
  • Must be comfortable working in elevated situations using step ladders and lifts

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

Education and Experience

  • High School diploma or equivalent

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

Salary: $16.00 - $18.00 per hour

Job Description:

The Lead Exhibitions Assistant proactively supports the installation and de-installation of seasonal exhibitions, and provides lighting support for events with a primary focus on the Garden’s holiday light show.  This includes leading volunteers and staff assigned to support the installation and de-installation of the light show. It also includes providing any logistical or personnel support needed during run of show.   This position requires a flexible schedule and the availability to work outdoors, in all weather conditions, on evenings, and weekends.

Responsibilities:

  • Support Director of Operations with conception, planning, installation, maintenance, and de-installation of lighting needs for Garden special events focusing on annual holiday light show.
  • Installs various lighting and A/V components, displays, form placement, and electrical testing. Removal and storage of same following special events.
  • Maintain organization of lighting storage areas and equipment. Keeps lighting equipment in good and safe working condition.
  • Create and maintain detailed documentation of lighting equipment.
  • Troubleshoot electrical infrastructure and hardware and conducts necessary repairs.
  • Assists with coordination and installation of decorative items, including hallway garlands, large wreaths, and other interior and exterior display elements.
  • Assist with supervising, leading, and coordinating staff and volunteers supporting fabrication, installation, and de-installation of light show.
  • Ensures all materials are inventoried, organized, and properly stored or disposed of as required
  • Rigs and operates necessary lighting equipment
  • Participate in Production meetings
  • Handles load-in and load-out procedures
  • Ensures compliance with safety protocols and electrical codes
  • Assists in training and supervising junior technicians, volunteers and other employees during installation of lighting equipment
  • Provides a wide variety of tasks needed to support run of show of annual light show including: troubleshooting electrical infrastructure, conducts necessary repairs and provide support for operational and custodial needs during setup and run of show

Skills and Abilities:

  • Prior knowledge of and experience with elementary electrical functions and rigging safety and practices
  • Experience working with and/or installing technical lighting equipment and projection systems
  • Knowledge of color theory and lighting design principles
  • Stamina necessary to complete physically active work outdoors on a regular basis
  • Excellent volunteer management and group facilitation skills
  • Technical proficiency with computers including Microsoft Office and experience with design/production software is preferred.
  • Able to work safely from an elevated level on ladders, roofs and in trees
  • Ability to productively switch between multiple tasks/types of work within a single day
  • Good interpersonal, and communications skills
  • Well-organized and detail-oriented
  • Solution-oriented and able to work independently as well as in a team environment
  • Reliable mode of transportation
  • Ability to work nights and weekends

Physical Demands / Working Conditions:

  • Must be able to lift objects up to 50 lbs. repeatedly
  • 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 able to climb stairs and stand for continuous periods of time with or without reasonable accommodation.
  • 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:

  • Associates degree or High school diploma; technical school training is preferred; a combination of experience and education will be considered.
  • Experience with electrical infrastructure preferred.
  • Familiarity with standard worksite safety practices.
  • Experience in managing light displays, exhibitions, or events preferred.
  • Prior experience in a botanical garden, museum, or cultural non-profit preferred.

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.

Please note: this position is represented by the 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 cover letter and resume [email protected]

Seasonal Openings

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Dates: August 5 - November 15, 2025

Salary: $30.00 - $35.00 per hour

Job Description

Under the leadership of the Director of Operations, the seasonal GardenFest Arborist will work closely with the Horticulture team to safely install lighting in trees for the annual GardenFest of Lights display. In addition to installing lights, this person is responsible for tracking and reporting light counts, troubleshooting lighting issues, and leading groups of staff and volunteers to light smaller trees and shrubs. The arborist will provide all necessary up to date equipment needed for tree climbing.

Responsibilities

Primary duties include:

  • Install light strands in trees both large and small using American National Standards Institute (ANSI) approved arboricultural tree climbing methods.
  • Safely climbing to any and all tips of tree branches to install lights.
  • Accurately recording hours and strand counts for specific trees.
  • Troubleshooting lighting issues during and after trees are being wrapped.
  • Other lighting projects as assigned.

Secondary duties may include:

  • Training LGBG staff climbers.
  • Testing strands on the ground for all aspects of functionality before using in tree.
  • Leading groups of garden staff or volunteers to light smaller trees, shrubs, or other lighting duties as assigned.
  • Periodic after-hours walkthrough to inspect progress at night.

Skills and Abilities

  • Ability to safely and efficiently climb and work position in all sizes of tree.
  • The Garden’s living collections are our livelihood, and care must be given to prevent damage to surrounding plant material at all times. Additionally, climbers must use non-damaging climbing methods (friction savers, SRS techniques, no gaffs/spikes).
  • New applicants may need to perform a short climbing test to demonstrate abilities and methods, to ensure they are up to the tasks as hand.
  • Prior knowledge of and experience with wrapping trees with lights is strongly preferred.
  • 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.
  • 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 consistent hours for duration of lighting projects.

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

  • This is primarily a tree climbing position, and involves the physical demands of that work.
  • Working at height, moving your body up into and throughout the canopy, and confidently positioning yourself for work aloft in difficult positions is all part of the day-to-day work.
  • Ability to carry up to 70 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 3 years of experience in arboriculture, or ISA Certified Arborist.
  • A minimum of 1 full year of production tree climbing experience, or ISA Certified Tree Worker.
  • Able to complete tree climbs beginning to end without assistance from outside help (setup/install of system, working climb, removal and storage of gear/system).
  • Prefer prior experience with wrapping trees with strand lights.
  • Experience with S4 brand Professional lights a strong addition.

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

Internship Openings

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Salary: $15.00 per hour

Job Description

Under the supervision of the Arboriculture and IPM Manager, the Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Intern will work closely with the Horticulture staff to implement and maintain the garden's IPM program. This internship provides hands-on experience in all aspects of IPM, including monitoring, identification, record-keeping, and environmentally responsible pest and disease management strategies. This is an excellent opportunity for a student or recent graduate interested in horticulture, plant pathology, entomology, environmental science, or a related field to gain practical experience in a beautiful and dynamic setting.

Responsibilities

  • Conduct regular scouting of garden collections to detect and identify pests, diseases, and beneficial organisms. Use various monitoring techniques, including visual inspection, trapping, and sampling.
  • Assist in identifying common plant pests, diseases, and weeds, utilizing resources such as field guides, online databases, and laboratory equipment (compound and stereo microscopes).
  • Maintain accurate and detailed records of pest and disease occurrences, treatment applications, and monitoring data. Utilizing Microsoft Teams, Forms, and Excel for data entry and analysis.
  • Assist in the implementation of IPM strategies, including:
    • Participate in horticultural practices that promote plant health and reduce pest pressure.
    • Assist with the release and monitoring of beneficial organisms.
    • Implement physical barriers, traps, and other methods to manage pests.
    • Under direct supervision, assist with the careful and judicious application of low-impact pesticides, following all safety protocols and regulations. Working toward acquiring a Virginia pesticide applicator license throughout the internship.
  • Assist with research projects related to IPM, such as evaluating new monitoring techniques or testing the efficacy of different control methods.
  • Communicate effectively with the Horticulture team, other staff, and the general public regarding pest and disease issues and IPM activities.
  • Assist with other related tasks as assigned by the supervisor. This may include assisting with general horticultural maintenance, educational programs, or other projects.

Skills and Abilities

  • Strong observational skills and attention to detail.
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a diverse team.
  • Excellent record-keeping and organizational skills.
  • Good communication and interpersonal skills.
  • Proficiency with basic computer software (Microsoft365).
  • Ability to work outdoors in Virginia seasonal extremes, as well as within a greenhouse during summer months.
  • Ability to lift 25 pounds on a regular basis

Qualifications: 

  • Prefer currently enrolled students in or recently graduated from an accredited college or university with a major in Horticulture, Plant Science, Entomology, Environmental Science, Biology, or a related field.
  • Basic understanding of plant biology, pest and disease identification, and IPM principles.
  • A genuine interest in plants, sustainable horticulture, and environmental stewardship.
  • Possession of a valid driver’s license

Preferred Qualifications: 

  • Previous experience in a horticultural setting (e.g., garden, nursery, farm).
  • Experience with IPM practices.
  • Familiarity with common arthropod pests and plant diseases in the Virginia region.
  • Pesticide Applicator's License (or willingness to obtain over the course of the internship).

Physical Demands / Working Conditions

  • Must be able to remain in a stationary position 40% of the time.
  • Must be able to traverse both paved and unpaved paths including mulch, turf, and gravel.
  • Must be able to work outdoors for 2-3 hours at a time.
  • Must be able to frequently operate a computer and other office productivity machinery, such as smart tablet, computer printer, scanner, copy machine, and camera.
  • Must possess the ability to observe details at close range (within a few feet of observer).

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

Each employee of Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden

  • Must comply with provisions of the current Employee handbook, all published personnel policies and the requirements of individual job descriptions; use tools and equipment safely & correctly.
  • 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 security of their property, ensuring that all concerns are reported promptly.
  • Must report all injuries and incidents immediately, ultimately in writing, to supervisor(s) and HR.
  • Must ensure compliance with all applicable federal and state laws and regulations.
  • Must perform other duties as assigned by supervisor.

To apply, please send 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 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