Accounts Receivable Coordinator

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.

Membership Operations Coordinator

Level/Salary Range

$31,000 – $35,000

Job Description

The Membership Operations Coordinator’s primary function is to provide operational support for the
Membership office. Duties include but are not limited to membership processing, preparing member
mailings, managing technology for the Membership team, customer service and maintaining database
accuracy. Strong technical skills are a must.

Responsibilities

• Accurate and efficient processing of memberships.
  • Strong capacity to use and troubleshoot POS and donor software systems.
  • Enter, update and maintain constituent and gift data in donor database.
  • Execute and monitor established data transfers between POS and donor software and promptly report any exceptions or issues.
  • Process membership purchases, receipts, cards and donor acknowledgment letters using POS and donor databases in a timely manner with close attention to detail.
  • Accurately pull mailing and email lists monthly for membership renewals.
  • Maintain accuracy of biographic and demographic data for members, donors, organizations and other constituencies in accordance with data entry policies and procedures.
  • Periodic data auditing and/or cleanup projects.
  • Conduct research to update contact information, identify deceased constituents and locate other pertinent information using web-based resources.
  • Assist in managing membership volunteers, including scheduling, assigning work and making sure work is completed correctly.
• Work collaboratively within Advancement and across organizational departments.
  • Cross-train with Advancement Services to gain knowledge of reporting and financial reconciliation processes with the Garden’s Finance Department.
  • Embrace the Garden’s commitment to excellence, willingly and cheerfully integrating work with the efforts of all other departments.
• Deliver a positive guest experience for all members, donors and constituents.
  • Ensure guests have a positive impression of the Garden and staff.
  • Provide outstanding customer service to potential and current members of the Garden.

Skills and Abilities

• Must be a well-organized, proactive, seasoned, successful, intelligent, intuitive and empathetic person.
• Must communicate clearly, effectively and comfortably in written and spoken word with guests, members, staff, Board, volunteers and vendors.
• Must adhere to the highest standards of confidentiality and best practices for development professionals.
• Must actively participate in the creation of long-range plans.
• Must be goal-oriented, yet flexible and adaptable to the ever-changing requirements of our guests.
• Must possess a commitment to the Garden’s mission and its core values, particularly honesty and integrity.
• Must be a positive and motivating presence who embraces change and challenge.

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.
• Ability to walk the Garden’s campus in most weather conditions.
• Ability to work Advancement Office Special Events including lifting up to 20lbs and other physical labor.
• 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

• Excellent organizational skills, attention to detail.
• Ability to be self-motivated and disciplined.
• Computer literate in a Windows environment, including demonstrated capacity to work with POS software systems, TAM and Blackbaud (preferred) or other similar databases.
• The Garden is committed to elevating diverse backgrounds and experiences. We encourage candidates who may not have membership or advancement experience to apply.

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

GardenFest Coordinator

Job Description

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

The GardenFest Coordinator will be forward-thinking, innovative, team-oriented, and adaptable, with proven success in designing and managing lighting displays and/or exhibitions. The successful candidate will be current with visual trends and willing to travel to network and learn from other light shows. The position is full-time (Category 1) and contributes to advancing the Garden’s educational mission and excellence in guest services.

Responsibilities
• Researches, designs, and coordinates the indoor and outdoor displays for GardenFest of Lights.
• Develops and maintains the design plan, the inventory of lights and other display collections, and other records as needed.
• Responsible for the physical inventory and storage of lights, display collections, and exhibition infrastructure.
• Develops a timeline and schedule that reflects staff, volunteers, and partner/vendor resources.
• Supervises volunteers who assist with the planning, fabrication, and implementation of the exhibition year-round.
• Leads the installation and de-installation process in the Garden, fostering teamwork by modeling best practices alongside our staff and volunteers.
• Provides staff and volunteer training for installation/de-installation tasks.
• Coordinates with community partners and vendors, including negotiating and writing agreements, processing purchase orders, and facilitating installation/de-installation details.
• Serves as nightly Manager on Duty for GardenFest and other relevant exhibitions throughout the year.
• Travels to other light displays and attends the Atlanta Buyer’s Market, as needed.
• Supports the Exhibitions Manager with planning and implementing seasonal changing exhibitions year-round.
• Provides lighting and visual display support for special events.
• Participates in the weekly cross-departmental logistics meeting.

Skills and Abilities
• Demonstrated knowledge of lighting design with a dedication to keeping current with visual trends.
• Demonstrated knowledge of electrical infrastructure, exhibition fabrication, and records management.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including public speaking and group facilitation.
• Must be able to initiate, build and sustain relationships with fellow staff, volunteers, and community partners.
• Enthusiastic, energetic, quick-thinking, cheerful, courteous, capable, diplomatic, and solution-oriented.
• Well-organized and detail-oriented, able to work independently as well as in a team environment.
• Technical proficiency with computers including Microsoft Office.
• Access to a car daily and a valid state driver’s license or ability to transport self as needed.
• Must be able to work varying hours, including evenings, weekends, and occasional holidays

Each employee of Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden
• Must comply with provisions of the current Employee handbook, all published personnel policies and the requirements of their job descriptions.
• Must perform all duties consistent with a public garden serving multigenerational and multicultural individuals and 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 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
• 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.
• 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 required by the Americans with Disabilities Act.

Education and Experience
• A minimum of 3 years of successful experience managing light displays, exhibitions, or other outdoor events.
• 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.

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

Assistant Horticulturist

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 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.

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, 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

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.

Garden Shop Manager

Job Description

Supervisory:

• Oversees all activities of the Garden Shop, ensures work aligns with revenue and organizational goals, and team members are demonstrating the Gardens core values of hospitality, responsibility, integrity, innovation, and inspiration, at all times.
• Handles staffing and volunteer needs that allow for shop growth and resourcefully supports daily work including interviewing, hiring, training, supervising and performance assessment, with the ability to, coach, counsel, and transition staff/volunteers.
• Successfully manages all shop team members and strategically pairs responsibilities and schedules that best accommodate the needs of the organization, leads by example and nurtures morale and optimism with team members.
• Creates a positive work environment through effective and regular communication, being an approachable manager and supportive of staff input and suggestions.
• Participates actively in Garden meetings and training for increased awareness of activities, events, exhibits and general planning.
• Ensures use of current technology with appropriate maintenance to facilitate efficient and optimal functionality for staff and increased capacity of departmental tasks.

Reporting and Financial:

• Achieves financial objectives by preparing a departmental budget, scheduling expenditures, analyzing variances, initiating corrective actions and meeting revenue goals.
• Keeps abreast of market trends to best identify current and future customer buying preferences.
• Ensures registers and nightly closeouts are accurate and balanced, and financial reporting is performed correctly and in a timely manner.
• Oversees yearly inventory with limited downtime and accounting for all merchandise and discrepancies.

Analysis:

• Uses member and visitor metrics for planning and purchasing strategies geared towards satisfying current customers, and opportunities with changing audience demographics.
• Seeks out future Garden exhibit plans in order to proactively pursue new merchandising opportunities relevant to upcoming exhibits, and programs and to align with marketing efforts.
• Formulates pricing policies and reviews purchasing activities to determine appropriate pricing, timing of sales and promotions and authorizes clearance sales.
• Analyzes shop merchandise and buying metrics to keep stock current and to adjust for improvements, enhancements or deletion.
• Reviews current department schedules with hourly sales records to consider changes that positively affect revenue.

Purchasing and Marketing:

• Work with buying team to select merchandise that is relevant to the Garden’s mission, is sustainable, meets revenue goals, promotes local and diverse vendors, and is displayed in a creative and tasteful way to maximize sales.
• Ensures buyers attend market shows out of state at least twice yearly and encourage attendance at other local markets as deemed specific and beneficial to revenue goals.
• Negotiates with suppliers regarding price, quality & value to offer fair, competitive choices.
• Consistently and regularly makes maximum use of available in-house marketing tools and works closely with Marketing Department to reach current and new client base through the Gardens website, e-newsletters and email blasts, advertising, trade publications, social media platforms and e-commerce.
• Actively initiates and regularly promotes new, exhibit-specific and/or seasonal merchandise, as well as special events geared to maximize revenue.

Required:

• 5 years minimum experience managing staff and volunteers in a diverse, multi-faceted retail environment.
• Demonstrated ability to discern attractive, useful, desirable products that provide value and earn profit.
• Able to work as part of a team and interact well, calmly and cheerfully with customers, visitors, volunteers and staff.
• Able to work in a fast-paced environment and make quick decisions.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills are required.
• Demonstrated ability with computers, Microsoft programs and inventory POS databases.

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

Physical Demands / Working Conditions

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

Education and Experience

• BA/BS in marketing, visual merchandising, business management or a related field is preferred.
• 5 – 10 years in a retail management position and experience purchasing home and gift products.
• Previous retail experience in a museum or other non-profit setting is desired.
• Previous experience with TAM Retail or a similar POS software package is preferred.
• Previous experience working with volunteers.

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

Facility Sales and Events Manager

Job Description

The Facility Events department coordinates over 300 rental events and 40 special events per year in 12 different venues and gardens. This is accomplished by possessing knowledge and understanding of the Gardens venues, rental terms, logistics for guest traffic, a genuine desire to work with people and an intuitive ability to be helpful, empathetic and eager to be of service to guests, clients and Garden teams.

The Facility Sales and Events Manager is a working supervisory position providing leadership of the Garden’s rental programs, and planning logistics for Gardenwide events that require music, set-ups, and support staff scheduled throughout the year. This position necessitates an individual dedicated to customer service who thrives on collaboration in a forward-facing, on-site, hands-on, environment with rental clients and Garden teams from inquiry to event execution. The Facility Sales and Events Manager works with Garden leadership to balance mission priorities, with revenue generation utilizing the shared resources of our Garden. This position works collaboratively and cooperatively with all departments and the Garden’s exclusive caterer, to ensure the highest quality of event planning and execution resulting in an exceptional experience for all. This position exemplifies our core value of hospitality to guests and staff to ensure the inclusivity of our Garden.

Responsibilities

Supervisory

• Oversees all activities of the Facility Events Department, ensures work aligns with revenue and organizational goals, and team members are demonstrating the Garden’s core values of hospitality, responsibility, integrity, innovation, and inspiration, at all times.
• Successfully manages all department team members and strategically pairs responsibilities and schedules that best accommodate the needs of the organization, leads by example and nurtures morale and optimism with team members.
• Handles staffing needs that allow for departmental growth and resourcefully supports daily work, tours and events including interviewing, hiring, training, supervising and performance assessment, with the ability to, coach, counsel, and transition staff.
• Ensures team members are trained and well versed in the Garden’s rental programs, terms and conditions, AV offerings, software database tools, and logistics and can communicate these details accurately during the inquiry, planning and execution stages.
• Oversees team’s interactions with rental clients and their guests, staff, the Garden’s exclusive caterer, and volunteers to ensure a positive, professional and helpful demeanor that best represents the organizational values.

Administrative Duties

• Prepares monthly departmental revenue and sales reports, analyzes data, proactively set strategies, and adjusts when needed to achieve revenue goals while balancing mission priorities.
• Uses databases and POS systems to develop and implement efficient processes to complete all departmental tasks and duties.
• Keeps the Garden’s internal calendar updated with rental and special events, making them available for Gardenwide access.
• Accounts for rental and special event attendees in the Gardens admissions ticketing system during special exhibits to determine parking needs and coordinates satellite parking arrangements as needed to balance general visitation with holiday rentals.
• Works collaboratively with the Marketing Department for the promotion of events and rental programs on the Gardens website and social media platforms. Monitors the “Facility Rental” section of the LGBG website, and other pages as assigned, including updating the language of all written rental materials and keeping photos updated to reflect all rental venues.

Rental Event Coordination Duties

• Develops and implements all Facility Rental programs, pricing structures, agreements, and terms and conditions, periodically reviewing to ensure they reflect the strategies and goals of the department.
• Oversees the coordination and execution of all rental events, including contracts, security deposit and rental fee collections, staffing support and tasking assignments.
• Ensures all setups for facilities and outdoor areas are completed in a timely manner, accurate, translatable to appropriate departments, with needed detail for successful execution by the operations and catering teams
• Serves as the main point of contact in addressing and resolving rental client needs and departmental staff issues and concerns in a cheerful and professional manner, making prudent decisions that best represent the Garden and balances ROI in related situations.

Special Event Coordination Duties

• Serves on Gardenwide Committees to coordinate logistics for events.
• Works collaboratively across departments for needed setups and creates in-house timelines for consistent and accurate communications for all staff working before and during events.
• Schedules entertainment for Garden wide and seasonal special events within an established budget, serves as the liaison between entertainment contractors, coordinates all load in/out logistics and provides feedback to supervisor on recommendations to change, update or revise established budgets and plans in order to grow attendance and interest in these special events

Skills and Abilities

• Is well-organized, proactive, self-motivated, detail-oriented, and an intelligent and intuitive leader who thrives on building and nurturing teams.
• Possesses a positive and motivating presence, is flexible and adaptable, embraces change and works harmoniously with all departments of the organization and supports the strategic growth of a dynamic and progressive non-profit organization.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, and comfortable speaking to individuals and small groups.
• Is enthusiastic, energetic, quick-thinking, cheerful, courteous and capable as they engage readily and promptly with guests, members and staff.
• Actively participates in the creation of short and long-range plans, and continuously seeks improvements to process and procedure.

Physical Demands / Working Conditions

• Ability to lift 20-30 pounds intermittently.
• Must be able to walk quickly between all garden venues regularly.
• Ability to navigate the Gardens campus in most weather conditions.
• The position requires familiarity with all public areas of the 82-acre 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’s or Associates’s degree in a hospitality-related field is required.
• Five years demonstrated a successful understanding of event coordination and sales.
• Experience working in a Windows environment, including demonstrated capacity to work with scheduling and event-related databases, including calendars, ticketing systems, and room diagraming (ActiveNet, Total Party Planner, AllSeated, EventBrite or related programs).
• Three years of supervisory experience and proven ability to motivate team members.
• Demonstrated ability to work successfully across departments and with volunteers.
• Experience and demonstrated sensitivity in working with diverse teams and in diverse communities.

Please submit your cover letter and resume to HR@lewisginter.org

Guest Services Associate

Job Description

The Guest Services Associate serves as the forward-facing welcoming committee for the organization. This position directly supports the Garden’s mission by exemplifying our core value of hospitality, and providing excellent customer service and is achieved by genuinely welcoming each visitor with knowledge of the Garden, helpfulness, empathy and eagerness to be of service. Our Guest Services team members work in the Atrium of the Robins Visitors Center which serves as our formal entry point for our members, guests, visitors, volunteers and vendors.

Responsibilities and Requirements

• Delivers excellent customer service.
  • Ensures a welcoming environment to all coming through the Visitors Center.
  • Promotes, sells and renews memberships, appropriately recommends upgrades and provides special membership services.
  • Proactively assesses visitor’s needs, ie: offering assistance or directions, locating wheelchairs or strollers.
  • Answers the Garden’s main phone line, expedites calls to appropriate departments or staff members, and returns calls in a timely fashion.
  • Acts as a contact person in case of emergencies and reports situations to appropriate parties, using required reporting procedures, as well as alerting emergency personnel when necessary.
  • Handles difficult situations with tact and respect and reports issues to supervisor in a timely manner with accurate details.
• Responsible for financial transactions.
  • Follows established procedures for opening and closing the assigned register.
  • Handles payment (cash, check or credit card) in exchange for admission fees and membership dues, event tickets and classes.
  • Performs ticket sales, registers guests for classes, runs reports, and checks the daily schedule of events.
• Proactively stays informed of all Garden events, classes and programs and effectively communicates this information to guests with enthusiasm.
  • Accesses all available resources (Website/ActiveNet) to ensure the information provided to our guests is up to date and relayed correctly.
  • Ensures messaging on monitors, and all interior and exterior signage is accurate with each day’s events.
  • Keeps working area organized, is ready to conduct business and keeps area tidy for following day’s shift.
  • Efficiently and correctly handles deliveries made to the Admissions desk.
  • Able to create and print new signage as needed to alert guests of time-sensitive issues (closings, limited access, safety alerts, special event information, etc.).
• Provides organizational support to contribute to a team atmosphere.
  • During slow visitation performs administrative duties and other tasks throughout the Garden where help is needed.
  • Accepts direction from supervisor with positivity and enthusiasm.
  • Is proactive and provides constructive feedback to improve efficiency.
• Required to have a flexible work schedule.
  • Willing and able to work weekends and as needed in evenings for special events.

Skills and Abilities

• Possesses excellent communication skills.
• Proficiency or ability to quickly learn POS/ticketing database.
• Ability to efficiently and accurately use membership database.
• Efficient use and navigation of Calendar database.
• Ability to efficiently navigate the Garden’s website.
• Detail-oriented and able to multi-task in a fast-paced potentially noisy environment.
• Proven ability to remain calm and problem solve in real-time.
• Able to work independently while providing excellent customer service to support departments.
• Bilingual with a preference for conversational fluency in Spanish.

 Physical Demands / Working Conditions

• Must be able to work for extended periods in one location, standing, bending and lifting.
• Must be able and willing to move periodically and quickly between departments as well as outside locations.
• Must be able to lift 20 pounds.
• Must be willing to work outside in all sorts of weather based on given assignment.
• Must be able to move around the Garden for orientation of Garden, exhibit and event locations in order to provide helpful instructions to guests, report to work locations.

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

Education and Experience

• 2 years post-high school education is preferred.
• 1 year prior experience working with the public in hospitality.
• Proficient in Outlook and Microsoft Office Products.
• Prior cashier, money handling experience.
• Experience using mainstream telephone platforms.
• Efficient and accurate database entry skills.

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 all individuals and families in accordance with the organization’s strategic plan and directives of inclusion, diversity, equity and accessibility.
• 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

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

Seasonal Gardener

Job Description

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.

Responsibilities

• Participate in the maintenance of horticultural displays, botanical collections and Garden natural areas.
  • Assist with the hands-on maintenance of annuals, perennials, shrubs, trees and tropical plants in a manner consistent with the horticulture standards of the Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden.
  • Physically work in all aspects of garden maintenance and development including soil preparation, planting & transplanting, mulching, watering, weeding, fertilizing, pruning, propagating, potting, raking, sweeping & blowing, tree & brush cutting, and recordkeeping.
• Safe and correct use of Garden tools and equipment.
  • Utilize shovels, trowels, fan rakes, grading rakes, spades, digging forks, pickaxes, brooms, hand shears, hand saws, loppers, pole pruners & pole saws, wheelbarrows, fertilizer spreaders, garden carts, ladders, and other hand tools to complete assigned tasks.
  • Operate push mowers, weed-whackers, backpack blowers, push blowers, garden ATVs, tractors, pickup trucks, and other power equipment in accordance with LGBG safety protocols and regulatory standards (training will be provided).
• Work collaboratively with a dynamic team to achieve a 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 the 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 submit a cover letter and resume to hr@lewisginter.org.

Housekeeping Assistant

Job Description

The Housekeeping Assistant will work with housekeeping team supporting day-to-day functions of the Garden with a primary focus on custodial and housekeeping duties.  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, emptying trash cans, floor cleaning and maintenance, and deep cleaning as requested
• Clean and reset facilities, rental spaces, classrooms, and equipment between functions
• Keep all storage areas clean, organized, and stocked
• Respond to requests of all departments/staff members for housekeeping and operations

support, as directed by the 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:

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

• Related work experience
• Mechanical understanding and knowledge

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 ladders

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

Education and Experience

• High School diploma or equivalent

Please submit your cover letter and resume to Human Resources at HR@lewisginter.org

Garden Shop Floor Leader  

Job Description

• 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, and 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 of 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 is preferred

Physical Demands / Working Conditions

• Able to stand for long periods of time and walk 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

To apply, please submit a resume to HR@lewisginter.org.

Guest Services Associate — Operations

Job Description

The Guest Services Associate – Operations position 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 focuses on elevating the guest experience and exemplifies the Garden’s core value of hospitality.

Responsibilities and Requirements

This position is responsible for assisting in day-to-day functions throughout the Garden campus, preparation and coordination for private and public events and exhibits, as well as light custodial duties under the supervision of the Director of Facilities. Visitation, event schedules, seasonal needs and priority tasks will determine assignments and hours divided among these support departments:

Operations:

• Provide excellent internal and external hospitality.
  • Set-up and breakdown of tents, tables, chairs, etc., for all ongoing Garden events, including rental events and in-house functions.
  • Responds to requests of all departments/staff members for Operations assistance, and as directed by supervisor.
  • Assist with all components of the operations of the Garden.

Maintenance:

• Assist with general repair and maintenance of all garden infrastructure.
  • Maintain facilities, vehicles, equipment, and utilities.
  • Help with special construction and maintenance projects.
• Installation and deinstallation of garden exhibits including: light installation, display set up, construction for securing displays, electrical testing, running extension cords, etc.

Housekeeping:

• Assist in maintaining the highest aesthetic standard for the Garden.
  • Collection and removal of litter from facilities and grounds daily.
  • Clean and maintain facilities and grounds daily including light custodial responsibilities.
  • Heavy custodial cleaning on occasions when vacant shifts arise within custodial department.

Security and Public Safety:

• Responsible for security and physical integrity of the property to include grounds and facilities, during and after hours.
  • Ensure the securing and alarming of property.
  • Support the management of vehicular and pedestrian traffic, particularly during public and private events.
• Responsible for ensuring the safety and quality of the guest experience (visitors, guests and students).
  • Provide a visible staff presence throughout all public spaces among buildings and grounds.
  • Able to provide assistance and helpful instructions/directions to guests.
  • Supports safe and expeditious routing of guests.
  • Able to comfortably take first action steps in case of an emergency.
• COVID 19 vaccination.

To apply, please see the full Guest Services Associate job description (PDF) and submit a resume to HR@lewisginter.org.

Social Media & Public Relations Intern 

The PR 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 Director of Public Relations and Digital Content Manager 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 PR & 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

Required

• Proof of COVID vaccination.

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. 

To apply please send the following to Ms. Jonah Holland, Digital Content Manager at hr@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).
• 2 recommendations on LinkedIn

Deadlines for applications:

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