Horticulturist

Horticulturist (Full-Time) 

The Toledo Zoo & Aquarium 

2/3/2026  

Under direct supervision, responsible for the proper maintenance of various landscapes throughout the zoo.  Installs and maintains plants in exhibits, prepares annual flower beds and landscapes, applies pesticides and fertilizers, oversees special projects using proper horticultural methods while considering conservation related programs. Reports to the Director of Plant Conservation. This position is an hourly non-exempt position under the Fair Labor Standards Act and requires forty hours per the scheduled work week. 

Essential Job Functions: Duties will include, but are not limited to monitoring and reporting on the following   

• Maintains landscapes including timely pest control, watering, weeding, fertilizing and any other activity necessary for proper plant care and maintenance.
• Plans, prepares and plants annual flower beds, landscapes and turf areas for the Zoo. Maintains areas throughout the season including weeding, watering, pruning, mulching, fertilization, mowing and trimming, etc.
• Coordinates the propagation and purchase of annuals, perennials, tropical plants, and woody plants for seasonal and permanent displays and to maintain and add to plant collections. Keeps appropriate records. 
• As directed, provides training and direct supervision of seasonal employees, which involves instructing, assigning, reviewing and planning the work of others.
• Responsible for the application of pesticides and the keeping of proper records.As directed controls invasive plants.
• Assists in the preparation and processing of departmental records and reports. 
• Maintains water features and fountains as required.
• Performs spring/fall clean-upas well as performs snow removal/salt application per the snow removal plan.
• Supports the composting operation to EPA requirements including the transportation of yard waste to the compost center and other facilities.
• Assists with the coordination, planning, design, purchasing, installation, maintenance, removal, and storage of more than 1,000.000 lights for the annual “Lights Before Christmas” light show. Responsible for supervising evening shift part time and seasonal employees.
• Communicates and interact effectively with other departmental personnel and volunteers.  Conducts/assistswith educational programs and tours as requested.
• As directed, manages IPM (Integrated Pest Management)
• As directed propagates plants required for browse programs.Assists with the harvest/distribution of browse as needed.

• As directed operates manual and automatic irrigation systems.
• As directed selects plants materials in landscape areas while giving consideration to all horticultural requirements and native plants that are conducive to the objectives of the project.
• Must have the ability to solve problems and take action to correct any deficiencies that occur inassigned areas.
• Assist with the fuel acquisition for equipment used in Horticulture.
• As directed, plans and provides support for various departments such as Development, Marketing, Visitors Services and Education events and programs such as the Zoo To Do, Pumpkin Path, Zoo Snooze, Weddings.
• Assist in moving all stored horticulture materials and equipment to and from storage.Clean and recycle growing containers.
• Provide input to Department of Facilities and Planning with plan, design, and implanting new exhibits, buildings, landscapes and facilities with zoo architectural consultants.
• Submits horticulture articles for publications, produces educational materials such as horticulture guides, plant label etc.

Minimum Training and Experience: 

• Associates Degree in Horticulture or related field and three years of horticulture/greenhouse facility experience or an equivalent combination of education and experience that provides the required knowledge, skills and abilities. 
• Horticulture supervisory experience preferred.  
• Must be 21+ years old.
• Must possess or obtain Ohio Pesticide Applicators license. 
• Must possess a valid drivers’ license and be insurable by the fleet insurance carrier.
• The Toledo Zoo is a drug-free workplace, includingmarijuana.

The Toledo Zoo is an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, creed, genetic information, sex, age, national origin, disability, military status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by law.