Horticulturist at South Carolina aquarium

See Below and for more info go to the South Carolina Aquarium web site.

David


Horticulturist
Body 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:

· Adheres to South Carolina Aquarium policies and procedures.

· Assists Curator to develop horticulture program for the South Carolina Aquarium.

· Oversees 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.

· Participates in research, design, modification and development of new exhibits/systems at the SCA and nursery.

· Establishes and cultivates relationships with local and regional plant resources.

· Acquires and/or propagates all Aquarium plant material.

· Manages off-site nursery facilities.

· Develops and maintains off exhibit plant propagation and holding area (nursery) through normal nursery practices.

· Trains and supervises horticulture volunteers at the Aquarium and nursery.

· Maintains accurate records and reports.

· Develops, executes and provides knowledge and expertise for field projects involving the use of existing or installed native plant material for habitat reclamation and enhancement.

· Liaisons with the City of Charleston for horticultural activities on National Park Service property adjacent to the Aquarium.

· Assists with special projects as requested by the Curator.



OTHER DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:

· Supports the mission by participating in Aquarium sponsored programs and events on a regular basis.

· Maintains inventory of supplies and equipment used in horticultural operations.

· Cross-trains in other areas of husbandry.

· Responds to visitor and telephone inquiries.

· Keeps abreast with current related literature.

· Attends and makes presentations to professional conferences and meetings.

· Participates in cross-functional activities like conducting tours, educational programs, member programs, committees, etc.

· Liaisons with the owners of Wando Farms (nursery location).







KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & 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 & 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.



LISCENCED & CERTIFICATIONS REQUIRED:

· Valid Drivers License.

SUPERVISION OF OTHERS:

· Horticulture and other Husbandry volunteers.

· Interns.