Assistant Director of Horticulture

(Paid Opportunities) Return to Paid Opportunities

 Compensation: $90,000 -$94,000

Reporting to the Director of Horticulture, the Assistant Director has overarching management responsibilities, including day-to-day operations of Horticulture, and can run the department in the absence of the Director. The Assistant Director provides training and direction to 7 gardeners with the shared goal of exemplary plantsmanship, imaginative design, and thoughtful maintenance. From April to November the Assistant Director helps supervise and mentor John Nally interns, instructing them in proper horticultural practices and in the safe use of tools and equipment. This leadership role includes management responsibilities but is primarily a "hands-on" position.

Responsibilities/Duties

  • In concert with the Director, manage day-to-day operations, including the scheduling, work assignments, and direction of gardening staff, interns, and volunteers
  • Support special projects and events at the Garden and assist the Director with all new initiatives and capital projects
  • Provide guidance so that Wave Hill’s horticulture is accurately represented in communications, fundraising materials, and programs
  • Act as liaison and advisor to horticulture staff with participation in programs and digital media
  • Enforce standards for the  protection of conservatory and gardens for film shoots, private events, and programs
  • Responsible for administrative duties such as staff time accounting, plant record keeping, supply inventory, and written reports (with the  support of the Horticulture Coordinator)
  • Work with the Director and Human Resources on all personnel issues
  • In the absence of the Director, the Assistant Director may act on their behalf
  • Organize woodland work and trail maintenance in collaboration with Forest Project interns.
  • This position is considered essential personnel during emergency situations

Qualifications/Requirements

  • Experienced "plants person" with knowledge of the widest range of plants, both hardy and tender, and the ability to care for them with the best, sustainable practices
  • At least 5 years of supervisor experience with the ability to inspire a collaborative, productive environment and manage staff effectively
  • Experience in fine gardening desired with the ability to impart the best horticultural practices in a public setting
  • Strong, hands-on gardening skills, including the operation of power equipment; outdoor work required in all seasons and weather; frequent sitting, standing, squatting, walking, climbing, bending, and lifting and moving 50+ pounds
  • Strong organizational skills with the assignment of work details while maintaining the flexibility to shift gears based on weather, public events, or unforeseen circumstances
  • Effective and confident communication, decision-making, prioritization, problem-solving skills, and conflict resolution
  • Familiarity with botanical nomenclature and the ability to use a plant records database
  • Demonstrated and ongoing scholarship in horticulture and related studies
  • Proficiency in basic computer skills and programs such as Outlook, Excel, Word, PowerPoint, or the ability to learn.
  • Valid NY driver’s license
  • NY State Pesticide Applicators' License or the ability to obtain one
  • Experience with a union staff is preferred but not required.
  • Experience with management and maintenance of glasshouses, growing areas, lawns/landscape, and power equipment preferred.

Additional Information

This is a full-time position requiring 35 hours per week, with an occasional evening/weekend. The salary range is commensurate with experience. Excellent benefits package.

The hiring salary range is dependent on the scope of work and responsibilities of the position. Salaries offered to candidates are based on numerous factors, including, but not limited to, the candidate's experience, skills, training and certifications, education, and other factors in addition to the scope of responsibilities of the specific position.  

Apply Instructions:

Send resume and cover letter with salary expectations in a single PDF document. Please state Assistant Horticulture in the subject line. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled, and only those receiving an interview will be contacted. No calls, please.

Diversity Equity and Inclusion at Wave Hill Wave Hill is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, or genetic information. Wave Hill is committed to providing access, equal opportunity, and reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities in employment, programs, and activities. To request a reasonable accommodation, contact humanresources@wavehill.org. 

Contact Information

Wave Hill Public Garden
Contact Name: Cathy Deutsch, Director of Horticulture
Email: cathy.deutsch@wavehill.org