Horticulture Technician
Location: Indianapolis, IN
Position Type: Full-time
The Horticulture Technician is responsible for the care, health, maintenance, and presentation of plant collections throughout the Zoo, including White River Gardens and the Hilbert Conservatory. You'll work alongside the Horticulture team to maintain beautiful and healthy landscapes while supporting conservation efforts, guest experiences, and the overall operation of the Zoo.
This is a hands-on position for someone who enjoys working outdoors, working with plants and equipment, and being part of a collaborative team. This is a full-time, 40 hour per week position that must be able to work weekends, holidays, and overtime as needed.
RESPONSIBILITIES
- Perform daily horticultural tasks including watering, weeding, mowing, trimming, mulching, planting, and soil preparation.
- Monitor plant health and identify pests, diseases, and other concerns.
- Identify plants and maintain knowledge of the Zoo's plant collections.
- Collect and prepare browse for animal departments as needed.
- Support conservation programs, public tours, chats, and educational interactions as requested.
- Work collaboratively with coworkers, volunteers, vendors, and other Zoo departments.
- Follow all Zoo safety procedures, PPE requirements, emergency procedures, and chemical-handling guidelines.
QUALIFICATIONS
- Bachelor's degree, preferably in horticulture, forestry, life sciences, or a related field from an accredited institution.
- At least one year of related horticulture, landscaping, or grounds experience.
- Valid driver's license and ability to operate Zoo vehicles as needed.
- Strong plant identification skills preferred.
- Experience with irrigation systems, power equipment, and/or machinery preferred.
- Comfortable working near animals and in animal-adjacent environments.
- Strong communication skills and a team-oriented attitude.
- Ability to work independently, identify problems and make sound decisions.
- Ability to work outdoors in a variety of conditions, including heat, cold, rain, snow, wind, and high humidity.
- Ability to perform physically demanding work, including lifting, moving, transporting, and positioning materials and equipment.
- Ability to navigate ladders, steps, uneven terrain, and other outdoor environments safely.
- Ability to obtain required certifications, including pesticide applicator, chainsaw, and skid steer/Bobcat certifications, as needed.
- Availability to work a 40-hour workweek, including some weekends and holidays based on operational needs.