Description:

Job Summary: Develops, implements and manages the South Carolina Aquarium’s horticultural projects including internal exhibits, external exhibits, off-site nursery and other plant displays. Essential Functions: • Adhere to South Carolina Aquarium policies and procedures. • Demonstrate a love of working with South Carolina native plants. • Assist Curator in developing the horticulture program for the South Carolina Aquarium. • Oversee the daily care and aesthetics of all plant displays including all aspects of plant culture, rotation of plant material, management of animal interaction with plant material, etc. • Participate in research, design, modification and development of new exhibits/systems at the SCA and nursery. • Establish and cultivate relationships with local and regional plant resources. • Acquires and/or propagates all Aquarium plant material. • Manage off-site nursery facilities. • Develop and maintain off exhibit plant propagation and holding area (nursery) through normal nursery practices. • Train and supervise horticulture volunteers at the Aquarium and nursery. • Maintain accurate records and reports. • Develop, execute and provide knowledge and expertise for field projects involving the use of existing or installed native plant material for habitat reclamation and enhancement. • Liaison with the City of Charleston for horticultural activities on National Park Service property adjacent to the Aquarium. • Manage the pest management program for SCA. • Assist with special projects as requested by the Curator. Other Duties and Responsibilities: • Support the mission by participating in Aquarium sponsored programs and events on a regular basis. • Maintain inventory of supplies and equipment used in horticultural operations. • Cross-train in other areas of husbandry. • Respond to visitor and telephone inquiries. • Keep abreast with current related literature. • Attend and makes presentations to professional conferences and meetings. • Participate in cross-functional activities like conducting tours, educational programs, member programs, committees, etc. • Work with and supervise outside contractors. • Liaison with the owners of Wando Farms (nursery location).

Requirements:

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: • Strong knowledge of the practices and principles of horticulture in a botanical garden setting and in botanical/zoological mixed species exhibits. • Knowledge of the flora and fauna of the Southeastern U.S., especially as it pertains to South Carolina native plant communities. • Skilled in all aspects of plant culture including watering, fertilization, pruning, pest management, plant propagation, etc. • Good organizational, communication and interpersonal skills. • Knowledge of organic/natural pesticide and fungicide control Education and Experience Required: • Bachelor’s degree in Horticulture, Botany or related field, or the equivalent to a degree in experience • Minimum of three years experience in a related field Licenses and Certifications Required: • Valid Driver’s License. • South Carolina pesticide license (or ability to acquire)

Additional Info:

Supervision of others: • Horticulture and other Husbandry volunteers • Interns