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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Facilities Assistant
Pay Range:
$15/hr
Exempt/Non-exempt: Non-Exempt
Position Type: Full Time,, weekend hours required
Location: Richmond, VA
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 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 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 [email protected].
Horticulturist
Pay: $17 - $24/hr
Exempt/Non-exempt: Non-Exempt
Position Type: Full Time with weekends and special events
Location: Richmond, VA
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 responsible for creating and maintaining displays that uphold 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, container 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 the IPM Horticulturist.
- Partner with Marketing for the promotion of horticulture by supporting the development of blog posts, social media, etc.
- Interact with the public on an informal basis by answering questions, providing directions,
- Lead and supervise Assistant Horticulturists, Seasonal Gardeners, interns, volunteers, and corporate groups. Collaborate with the Manager of Volunteers.
- Safe and correct use of Garden tools and
- 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
- Work a flexible work schedule; must be available to weekends; must be available to assist with evening coverage during special events; required to work nights during Dominion Energy GardenFest of Lights
- 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 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
- The ability to follow written and verbal
- 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
- Must be able to bend, squat, kneel, stand, and walk for extended periods of
- Must be able to work out-of-doors in Central Virginia seasonal
- 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
- Three years of experience working in public gardens, parks or
- 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
- 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
- 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].
Nursery Horticulturist
Pay Range:
$17 – $24/hr
Exempt/Non-exempt: Exempt
Position Type: Full Time
Location: Richmond, VA
Job Description
Under the guidance of the Horticulture Section Leader, the Nursery Horticulturist leads the production, planning, and maintenance of the Anne Holt Massey Greenhouse and associated nursery spaces. This role combines hands-on horticulture, plant production, teamwork, and collaboration with community partners.
Nursery & Greenhouse Production and Plant Health
- Propagate, cultivate, and maintain a diverse range of herbaceous and woody plants using organic and conventional methods, including annuals, perennials, woody plants, orchids, aroids, palms, aquatics, and seasonal crops.
- Implement and innovate production techniques such as tissue culture, hanging baskets, topiaries, and specialty standards.
- Oversee daily nursery and greenhouse operations, including environmental management and back-of-house coordination.
- Monitor plant health, identify issues proactively, and apply sustainable Integrated Pest Management (IPM) strategies; coordinate scouting and treatments with the Arboriculture and IPM Manager.
- Operate, maintain, and troubleshoot nursery systems and equipment such as Dosatron units, Argus greenhouse controls, irrigation systems, and pesticide foggers.
- Coordinate annual plant orders between staff and outside vendors.
- Assist the Conservatory Horticulturist with conservatory bedding change-outs and routine conservatory tasks as needed.
Living Collections Documentation and Labeling
- Maintain accurate plant records in collaboration, adhering to Living Collection Policy and Collection Management Plan in all plant identification, recordkeeping, plant installation, and movement decisions.
Collaboration, Coordination, and Leadership
- Work with the Horticulture Section Leader on section-wide initiatives, project delegation, and team coordination.
- Supervise and mentor seasonal staff, interns, volunteers, and corporate work groups.
- Serve as a liaison among nursery stakeholders, including horticulture staff, Reynolds Community College programs and plant sales, volunteer plant sale teams, and partner organizations.
- Support mission-driven and revenue-generating plant production for plant sales, the gift shop, and donations to community partners.
- Partner with Marketing for the promotion of horticulture by supporting the development of blog posts, social media, etc.
- Interact with the public on an informal basis by answering questions, providing directions,
Facilities, Grounds, and Safety Operations
- Report, coordinate, and participate in repairs, preventative maintenance, and facility improvements in nursery and greenhouse environments.
- Organize, inventory, and restock nursery supplies and materials to support smooth daily operations.
- Use and maintain horticultural tools and equipment such as hand tools, mowers, blowers, tractors, and utility carts.
- Maintain exterior grounds and surrounding areas to ensure a clean, safe, and aesthetically maintained environment.
- Ensure safe access to buildings, walkways, and parking areas throughout the year, including performing snow and ice removal and seasonal weather response tasks.
- Coordinate with Facilities and Operations staff to schedule and complete equipment repairs, infrastructure needs, and operational improvements.
- Respond to weather events, emergencies, and unexpected conditions by supporting cleanup, hazard mitigation, and recovery work.
- Follow all safety protocols and maintain compliance with required training
- Perform other duties as assigned
Skills and Abilities
- Demonstrated knowledge of a wide range of plant diversity and their needs in a production setting
- Ability to plan crop sequences, manage production schedules, and design garden layouts.
- Proficiency in the safe and effective use of horticultural tools, nursery systems, and machinery.
- Ability to work outdoors and in greenhouse environments in all weather conditions.
- Strong interpersonal skills with experience supervising others and engaging with the public.
- Ability to follow written and verbal instructions and complete tasks independently or as part of a team.
- 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 Requirements
- The physical strength, dexterity, and coordination are sufficient to perform the above
- Ability to bend, squat, kneel, stand, and walk for extended periods.
- Must lift to 50 pounds repeatedly.
- Must be able to work outdoors in Central Virginia seasonal extremes.
Note: Duties described above, other duties, and physical demands have been identified as essential functions as required by the Americans with Disabilities Act.
Education & Experience
- A degree in Horticulture, Botany, Plant Science, or a related field.
- Three years of experience working in public gardens, parks, arboreta, and nurseries
- Other combinations of education/experience appropriate to the job will be
- Prior training in greenhouse control systems
- Possession of a valid driver’s license.
- Virginia Pesticide Applicator’s License (or ability to obtain within 6 months).
- Conversational Spanish proficiency is a plus.
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].
Assistant Horticulturist
Pay Range:
$15 – $17/hr
Exempt/Non-exempt: Non-Exempt
Position Type: Full Time
Location: Richmond, VA
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.
- Maintains the grounds and exterior areas to ensure a clean, safe, and aesthetically pleasing environment, including routine landscaping, debris removal, walkway upkeep, and general property appearance.
- Ensures all building access points, walkways, and parking areas remain safe and accessible year‑round, including performing snow and ice removal, salting, and seasonal maintenance activities.
- Responds to weather events, emergencies, and unexpected conditions by performing prompt cleanup, hazard removal, and support for disaster‑related recovery efforts to restore safe operations.
- 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, occasional holidays and special events like GardenFest, 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.
*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 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.
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 h[email protected].
Membership Operations Coordinator
Pay Range:
$19 – $21/hr
Exempt/Non-exempt: Non-Exempt
Position Type: Full Time
Location: Richmond, VA
Job Description
The Membership Operations Coordinator’s primary function is to provide operational support and customer 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 and confidentiality.
Responsibilities
- Accurate and efficient processing of memberships.
- Use and troubleshoot the Garden’s CRM.
- Enter, update, and maintain confidential constituent and gift data in the CRM system.
- Process membership purchases, receipts, cards, and donor acknowledgment letters using the CRM in a timely manner with close attention to detail.
- 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.
- Work collaboratively within Advancement and across organizational departments.
- Crosstrain 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.
- Work a flexible work schedule; must be available to weekends; must be available to assist with evening coverage during special events; required to work nights during Dominion Energy GardenFest of Lights
- Other job-related duties as assigned.
Skills and Abilities
- Demonstrated skills and ability to be a well-organized, proactive, seasoned, successful, intelligent, intuitive, and empathetic person.
- Ability to communicate clearly, effectively, and comfortably in written and spoken word with guests, members, staff, Board, volunteers, and vendors.
- Strong technical skills in the use of personal computers, including demonstrated capacity to work with CRM software systems.
- Ability to adhere to the highest standards of confidentiality and best practice for development professionals.
- Ability to actively participate in the creation of long-range plans.
- Ability to 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 available to work evenings, weekends, and occasional holidays, ensuring coverage for special events at the Garden, including GardenFest, 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
- Prolonged periods of time in an office sitting 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
- 1 to 2 years of nonprofit work, preferably with membership or data entry experience
- Previous experience working with confidential data and customer service.
- Experience with CRM software systems, Tessitura preferred.
Please submit a cover letter and resume to [email protected].
Membership Services & Stewardship Coordinator
Pay Range:
$19 – $21/hr
Exempt/Non-exempt: Non-Exempt
Position Type: Full Time – Wednesday through Sunday
Location: Richmond, VA
Job Description
The Membership Services & Stewardship Coordinator’s primary functions are to provide outstanding customer service to Garden members and potential members and to help with membership processing and office duties. The role works in conjunction with the Guest Services staff to sell, renew and answer questions about memberships.
Weekend and night availability are required. Strong technical skills are a must. Previous experience in customer service with access to confidential data is highly desired.
Responsibilities
- Represent the membership team and the Advancement department on the weekends through a presence in the Robins Visitors Center.
- Provide support to the Guest Services team, including selling memberships, daily admission tickets, assisting guests with questions, managing guest flow, and additional tasks as needed.
- Accurate and efficient processing of memberships.
- Use and troubleshoot the Garden’s CRM.
- Enter, update, and maintain confidential constituent and gift data in the CRM system.
- Process membership purchases, receipts, cards, and donor acknowledgment letters using the CRM in a timely manner with close attention to detail.
- 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.
- Work collaboratively within Advancement and across organizational departments.
- 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.
- Provide outstanding customer service to potential and current members of the Garden.
- Sell, upgrade, and renew memberships through virtual and in-person methods.
- Work a flexible work schedule; must be available to weekends; must be available to assist with evening coverage during special events; required to work nights during Dominion Energy GardenFest of Lights
- Other job-related duties as assigned.
Skills and Abililies
- Demonstrated skills and ability to be a well-organized, proactive, seasoned, successful, intelligent, intuitive and empathetic person.
- Ability to communicate clearly, effectively and comfortably in written and spoken word with guests, members, staff, Board, volunteers, and vendors.
- Strong technical skills in the use of personal computers, including demonstrated capacity to work with CRM software systems.
- Knowledge of customer service standards and procedures.
- Ability to adhere to the highest standards of confidentiality and best practice for development professionals.
- Ability to 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.
- Ability to foster a cooperative work environment in a challenging and changing environment.
- Must be available to work evenings, weekends, and occasional holidays, ensuring coverage for special events at the Garden, including GardenFest, 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
- Prolonged periods of time in an office, sitting at a desk.
- Ability to walk the Garden’s campus in most weather conditions.
- Ability to work in the 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
- 1 to 2 years nonprofit experience, preferably in membership or donor/customer relations.
- Previous experience working with confidential data and customer service.
- Experience with CRM software systems, Tessitura preferred.
- Fluency in conversational Spanish, preferred.
Please submit a cover letter and resume to [email protected].
Part-Time Openings
.
Facilities Assistant
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].
Public Safety Associate
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].
Part-Time Educator
Pay: $16/hr
Exempt/Non-exempt: Non-Exempt
Position Type: Part-Time: 8am to 1pm weekdays/ 25 hours per week may vary
Location: Richmond, VA
Job Description
Part-Time Educators are a vital part of the Youth and Family Engagement (YFE) team. Educators facilitate outdoor educational programming for Pre-K to 12th grade students, lead drop-in programming for families, and provide support in horticultural tasks within the Children’s Garden.
The typical work schedule for this position is 8:00am – 1:00pm Monday – Friday.
Responsibilities
- Facilitates nature-based learning programming for Pre-K to 12th-grade school groups, families, and
summer camps. - Responsible for daily operations of the Children’s Garden on weekdays, including opening, set-up,
and clean-up for the Children’s Garden, the Waterway, and program areas. - Maintains physical spaces within the Children’s Garden:
- Ensures tidiness of activity spaces.
- Performs basic horticultural tasks (watering, weeding, planting, harvesting)
- Participates in staff workdays to support larger projects.
- Assists YFE staff with additional programming, which may include:
- Leading summer camp.
- Support for school group arrivals.
- Occasional teaching/support of off-site programs at partner organizations in the community.
- Assists with the Garden’s yearly GardenFest of Lights holiday light show. Occasional evening shifts required.
- Completes other duties as assigned, including:
- Actively participates in staff training and department meetings.
- Completes American Red Cross First Aid and CPR training.
- Ensures that guests’ fundamental needs for safety, security, and comfort are met at all times in the Garden.
-Occasional evening, weekend, and holiday hours.
Skills and Abilities
- Demonstrated knowledge of formal and informal education principles and developmentally
appropriate practices. - Communicates effectively with diverse ages, backgrounds and all abilities.
- Works well independently and in a team environment; adaptable and solution-oriented,
- Energetic and personable; an innovative, creative thinker.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including public speaking and group
facilitation. - Excellent organizational skills; self-motivated with the ability to manage goals and
productivity. - Able to work varied hours outside the traditional work week, including weekends, evenings, holidays, and special events, including GardenFest.
- Basic gardening knowledge is a plus.
- Proficiency in conversational Spanish a plus.
Each employee of Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden
- Must comply with provisions of the current Employee handbook, all published personnel policies and the requirements of their individual job descriptions.
- Must perform all duties in a manner consistent with a public garden serving multigenerational and multicultural individuals, families in accordance with directed practices and procedures.
- Must be aware of surroundings and vigilant to threats to the safety of visitors, volunteers, and staff or to security of their property, ensuring that all concerns are reported promptly.
- Must report all injuries and incidents immediately and ultimately in writing to supervisor(s) and to Human Resources.
- Must ensure compliance with all applicable federal and state laws and regulations.
- Must perform other duties as assigned by supervisor.
Physical Demands / Working Conditions
- Ability to carry up to 30 lbs.
- Ability to work outdoors in varied terrain and all weather conditions.
- Comfortable working in immediate proximity to general public in a safe and friendly manner.
- The position requires familiarity with all public areas of the 82-acre Garden property.
Note: Duties described above, other duties and physical demands have been identified as essential functions as required by the Americans with Disabilities Act.
Education and Experience
- High school diploma.
- 2 years college, vocational training, or other work experience; focus on environmental studies a plus
- Demonstrated experience with the design and delivery of innovative, creative, high quality, and developmentally appropriate programs for all ages, backgrounds and abilities.
- Experience in a garden or other nature-based learning setting a plus.
- CPR and First Aid certification a plus.
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 send a cover letter and resume to [email protected].
Facility Events Staff Assistant
Pay: $15/hr
Exempt/Non-exempt: Non-Exempt
Position Type: Part Time – 10 hours month/min.
Evenings, early mornings and/or weekends required
Hours based on event schedule
Location: Richmond, VA
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.
- Monitor 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]
Internship Openings
.
Federal law requires that Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden verify the identity and work authorization of each new employee. Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden participates in E-Verify for all hires. E-Verify electronically compares information entered on the Employment Eligibility Verification, Form I-9, with records contained in Social Security Administration and Department of Homeland Security databases. This helps employers verify the identity and employment eligibility of newly hired employees.