Job Announcement:
The Chattahoochee Nature Center (CNC) is an environmental education facility that focuses on the interpretation of flora, fauna, and human interaction with the Chattahoochee River. Horticulture at CNC is a vital component of a positive guest experience, and the Horticulture department strives to inspire the 150,000 visitors annually by increasing their connection to the natural world through an extensive collection of native plant gardens, butterfly gardens, and Unity Garden.
Position Summary:
The Horticulturist position supports the cultivation, care, and propagation of native plant species across the organization’s grounds and nursery operations. This role plays a key part in maintaining healthy, ecologically appropriate landscapes while also preparing plant material for seasonal plant sales and public programs.
This is a hands-on position that blends horticulture, nursery production, and site maintenance. The ideal candidate brings strong plant knowledge, attention to detail, and a willingness to work both independently and as part of a team in a dynamic outdoor environment. The position is full-time, non-exempt and reports to the Director of Horticulture and Grounds.
Key Responsibilities:
Horticulture & Plant Care
- Maintain and care for native plant collections, including planting, watering, pruning, mulching, and general upkeep.
- Monitor plant health and implement integrated pest management (IPM) practices, including identification and treatment of pests and disease.
- Support propagation efforts through seed collection, division, cuttings, and greenhouse/nursery production.
- Assist in maintaining greenhouse and nursery environments, including irrigation, ventilation, and seasonal transitions.
- Support the Conservation and Education mission of CNC
Plant Production & Sales Support
- Prepare plant material for seasonal sales, including potting, labeling, pricing, and staging.
- Assist with inventory tracking and organization of nursery stock.
- Support plant sales events, including setup, customer interaction, and breakdown.
- Ensure plants are healthy, well-presented, and ready for public distribution.
Grounds & Landscape Maintenance
- Perform routine grounds work, including weeding, edging, invasive species removal, and trail/bed maintenance.
- Assist with the installation of new planting areas, restoration projects, and habitat enhancements.
- Support erosion control, soil improvement, and general landscape stewardship aligned with native plant practices.
Operations & Team Support
- Work collaboratively with staff, volunteers, and interns to complete daily tasks and seasonal projects.
- Assist in training and guiding volunteers on basic horticultural tasks.
- Follow all safety protocols and support a clean, organized work environment.
- Assist with special events, programs, and campus needs as required.
Qualifications & Requirements
- Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Horticulture, Environmental Science, Plant Biology, or related field preferred (or equivalent hands-on experience).
- 2–4 years of experience in horticulture, nursery production, landscaping, or a related field.
- Knowledge of southeastern U.S. native plants and basic plant identification skills.
- Familiarity with plant propagation techniques and nursery practices.
- Understanding of plant health care, including basic IPM principles.
- Ability to perform physically demanding outdoor work in varying weather conditions.
- Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
- Experience working with MS Office primarily Excel and MS Word
Additional Requirements
- Ability to work occasional evenings, weekends, and special events as needed (including plant sales).
- Valid driver’s license preferred.
- Georgia Pesticide Applicator License (or ability to obtain within 6 months) is required.
Work Environment
- Primarily outdoor work in all weather conditions, with some greenhouse/nursery responsibilities.
- Physical requirements include lifting up to 50lbs, bending, kneeling, and extended periods of standing or walking.
