Salary: $17.00 - $24.00 per hour

Job Description: 

Under the guidance of the Horticulture Section Leaders, Horticulturists implement the installation and care of the display gardens and horticultural collections, both outdoors and under glass. This position works collaboratively within a dynamic department that is responsible for creating and maintaining displays that represent the highest aesthetic standards at the Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden and the Lewis Ginter Nature Reserve. Individuals in this position should have a keen interest in horticulture and gardening, a general understanding of horticultural principles, and the skills necessary to perform basic horticultural tasks.

Responsibilities: 

• Work daily to support and maintain a diverse planting of annuals, perennials, tropical, woody and edible plants through pruning, grooming, weeding, mulching, watering, fertilizing, and scouting.
• Maintain various established demonstration-quality growing strategies including in-ground plantings, raised beds, containers gardening, various vertical-growing models, companion planting, etc., plus contribute new ideas and techniques.
• Diligently tend to plant health by applying organic, ecosystem-based, sustainable Integrated Pest Management (IPM) strategies including biological, mechanical, and cultural Coordinate scouting and control treatments with IPM Horticulturist.
• Partner with Marketing for the promotion of horticulture by supporting development of blogposts, social media, etc.
• Interact with the public on an informal basis by answering questions, providing directions, etc.
• Lead and supervise Assistant Horticulturists, Seasonal Gardeners, interns, volunteers, and corporate groups. Collaborate with Manager of Volunteers.
• Safe and correct use of Garden tools and equipment
  • Utilize shovels, trowels, fan rakes, grading rakes, spades, digging forks, pickaxes, brooms, hand shears, hand saws, loppers, pole pruners & pole saws, wheelbarrows, fertilizer spreaders, garden carts, ladders, and other hand tools to complete assigned tasks.
  • Operate push mowers, weed-whackers, backpack blowers, push blowers, garden ATVs, tractors, pickup trucks, and other power equipment in accordance with LGBG safety protocols and regulatory standards (training will be provided).
• Work collaboratively with a dynamic team to achieve horticultural standards of 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.
• Must be available to work evenings, weekends, and occasional holidays, ensuring coverage for Horticulture outside the traditional work week/day.
• Support plant records work to advance our botanical collection
• Perform other duties as assigned by the Horticulture Section Leaders or their supervisor.

Skills and Abilities 

• Knowledge of and experience with edible landscapes and/or agricultural crop maintenance practices and plant care appropriate to the region.
• Strong work ethic, keen interest in sustainable agriculture and organic food production, and an enthusiasm for physical work outdoors.
• A demonstrated understanding of the horticultural practices and procedures required for soil preparation, planting & transplanting, mulching, watering, weeding, fertilizing, pruning, propagating, mowing, raking, sweeping & blowing, and tree & brush cutting.
• The ability to use shovels, trowels, fan rakes, grading rakes, spades, digging forks, pickaxes, brooms, hand shears, hand saws, loppers, pole pruners & pole saws, wheelbarrows, fertilizer spreaders, garden carts, ladders, and other hand tools effectively.
• The ability to operate push mowers, riding mowers, string trimmers, backpack blowers, push blowers, garden UTVs, pickup trucks, chainsaws, and other power equipment safely and effectively.
• The ability to follow written and verbal instructions.

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

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 hr@lewisginter.org.

 

Salary: $15 per hour

Job Description

The Facilities Operations Assistant 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 and housekeeping duties 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:

Operations:

• Provide excellent internal and external hospitality.
  • Set-up and breakdown of tables, chairs, tents, 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.
  • Transport items throughout campus
  • Light assembly/disassembly of furnishings and equipment
• Installation and deinstallation of garden exhibits including: light installation, display set up, construction for securing displays, electrical testing, running extension cords, etc.

Custodial:

• Assist in maintaining the highest aesthetic standard for the Garden.
  • Collection and removal of litter and recycling from facilities and grounds daily.
  • Clean and maintain facilities and grounds daily including light housekeeping responsibilities.

Required

• Ability to work nights, weekends, and holidays.
• Ability to work outdoors in a variety of weather conditions
• Ability to work cooperatively within a diverse team
• Familiarity with safe use of common hand tools.

Desirable

• Related work experience.
• Basic mechanical understanding and knowledge or ability to learn.
• Basic Microsoft Office product experience.

Responsibilities

• Delivers excellent customer service in all facets of work.
• Ability to multi-task in a fast-paced environment.
• 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 as needed in evenings for special events.
• 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

• Detail oriented and able to multi-task in a fast-paced potentially noisy environment.
• Proven ability to problem-solve in real time.
• Bilingual with a preference for conversational fluency in Spanish helpful.

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 buildings and outside areas.
• Must be able to lift 40 pounds.
• Must be willing to work outside in all sorts of weather based on given assignment.
• Must be able to move around the Garden serving as a visible presence, to be familiar with exhibit and event locations in order to report to work locations.

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

Education and Experience

• High school education or GED required
• 1 year prior experience working with the public in the hospitality field preferred
• Proficient in Outlook and Microsoft Office Products preferred
• Experience and familiarity with pool filtration equipment beneficial.

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

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

Salary: $15 per hour

Job Description

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

Responsibilities:

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

Required:

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

Employees of Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden

• Must comply with provisions of the current Employee handbook, all published personnel policies and the requirements of their individual job descriptions.
• Must perform all duties in a manner consistent with a public garden serving multigenerational and multicultural individuals, families, and in accordance with directed practices and procedures.
• Must be aware of surroundings and vigilant to threats to the safety of visitors, volunteers, and staff or to security of their property, ensuring that all concerns are reported promptly.
• Must report all injuries and incidents immediately and ultimately in writing to supervisor(s).
• Must ensure compliance with all applicable federal and state laws and regulations
• Must perform other duties as assigned by supervisor

Physical Demands / Working Conditions

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

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

Education and Experience

• High School diploma or equivalent

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

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

Salary: $15 per hour

Job Description

The Facilities Operations Assistant 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 and housekeeping duties 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:

Operations:

• Provide excellent internal and external hospitality.
  • Set-up and breakdown of tables, chairs, tents, 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.
  • Transport items throughout campus
  • Light assembly/disassembly of furnishings and equipment
• Installation and deinstallation of garden exhibits including: light installation, display set up, construction for securing displays, electrical testing, running extension cords, etc.

Custodial:

• Assist in maintaining the highest aesthetic standard for the Garden.
  • Collection and removal of litter and recycling from facilities and grounds daily.
  • Clean and maintain facilities and grounds daily including light housekeeping responsibilities.

Required

• Ability to work nights, weekends, and holidays.
• Ability to work outdoors in a variety of weather conditions
• Ability to work cooperatively within a diverse team
• Familiarity with safe use of common hand tools.

Desirable

• Related work experience.
• Basic mechanical understanding and knowledge or ability to learn.
• Basic Microsoft Office product experience.

Responsibilities

• Delivers excellent customer service in all facets of work.
• Ability to multi-task in a fast-paced environment.
• 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 as needed in evenings for special events.
• 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

• Detail oriented and able to multi-task in a fast-paced potentially noisy environment.
• Proven ability to problem-solve in real time.
• Bilingual with a preference for conversational fluency in Spanish helpful.

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 buildings and outside areas.
• Must be able to lift 40 pounds.
• Must be willing to work outside in all sorts of weather based on given assignment.
• Must be able to move around the Garden serving as a visible presence, to be familiar with exhibit and event locations in order to report to work locations.

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

Education and Experience

• High school education or GED required
• 1 year prior experience working with the public in the hospitality field preferred
• Proficient in Outlook and Microsoft Office Products preferred
• Experience and familiarity with pool filtration equipment beneficial.

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

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

 

MARKETING INTERN 

The Marketing Department strives to build the Lewis Ginter Botanical brand and support the mission to connect people to plants by inspiring communities to explore and conserve nature. This is a paid internship; hours are flexible but require a minimum of 150 hours per semester and 10-15 hours per week.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Assist in supporting the Garden’s social media efforts. This involves monitoring (including some weekends) and creating content.
• Write for the Garden’s blog.
• Help make updates to the Garden’s website.
• Post Garden info to websites such as tourism sites and media calendars.
• Take and upload digital photos and video of the Garden.
• Assist with events as needed.
• Provide general office and project support for the Marketing Department.
• Work with the Chief Marketing Officer and Digital Content Strategist to help meet the needs of reporters and photographers.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Experience using social media; experience using for a business or brand is a plus. (Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn, Pinterest and TikTok.)
• Strong writing and communication skills.
• Ability to work on computers and use a digital camera.
• Some simple graphic design skills and the ability to use or to learn Photoshop and WordPress.
• Should be prepared to work in a business environment, including meeting deadlines, working alone and as part of a team, and multitasking.

INTERNSHIP TRAINING INCLUDES:

• Social media use in a business setting.
• Writing blog posts and optimizing content for SEO.
• Building photography, videography and graphic skills.
• Marketing and public relations experience in a non-profit setting

TO APPLY:

Candidates are asked to submit the following to willn@lewisginter.org:

• Resume
• a writing sample (preferably a blog post, news article or social media post)
• An informal cover letter detailing your interest in the specific internship and how you hope this experience will help you reach your educational and career goals. Please also let us know if you plan to pursue this internship for credit and list your scheduling availability (start/end dates, days/times available)
• Optional: links to social media account/s
• In addition, we ask candidates to have at least one recommendation on LinkedIn

DEADLINES FOR APPLICATIONS:

Spring Semester/December 15th
Summer/March 15th