Job Details
ABOUT US
Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens offers world-class horticulture, art & nature-based exhibitions and educational programs. The 13-acre indoor and outdoor facilitysituated two miles from downtown Columbusfeatures glasshouses including the historic John F. Wolfe Palm House; botanical gardens including the Scotts Miracle-Gro Foundation Childrens Garden and Scotts Miracle Gro-Foundation Community Garden Campus; and event venues. The Conservatory is home to the largest collection of Chihuly glass in a botanical garden and Light Raiment II by internationally renowned artist James Turrell. Committed to the community, the Conservatory strives to provide an accessible and welcoming experience to all.
MISSION
Inspired by horticulture, Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens elevates quality of life and connects the community through educational, cultural and social experiences.
VISION
A world that celebrates nature as essential to the human experience.
JOB SUMMARY
The Plant Records Specialist is a key member of the Horticulture and Exhibitions team who is responsible for maintaining and developing the plant collections database, data collection and mapping systems and plant labeling and collection policies, under the guidance of the Associate Director of Horticulture. This position works cooperatively with the Horticulture & Exhibitions management team on developing and implementing policies and protocols that support institutional plant collections mission and goals. The Plant Records Specialist can play numerous roles and specializes in various aspects of planning and operations at the Conservatory while serving as a leader. This role supports departmental and facility goals, mission, and values with a strong emphasis on customer service while being an ambassador for the organization.
Additional Information: This is a full-time, non-exempt position. The selected candidate will be eligible for the Conservatory's benefit package offered to full-time employees, which includes medical, dental and vision insurance, company paid Life/AD&D/Short-Term and Long-Term Disability insurance, participation in the Ohio Public Employees Retirement Program (OPERS), optional 457(b) Deferred Compensation plan, accrued Paid Time Off (PTO) which starts at 23 days annually, accrued Sick Time, 3 paid holidays (Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day), and complimentary membership to the Conservatory.
Compensation: $21.50/hour
RESPONSIBILITIES
* Maintains timely and accurate plant records within database software by entering accessions, deaccessions, photos, mapping, documenting history, sources and conservation statuses.
* Serves as lead administrator for IrisBG software including data entry, quality control and troubleshooting.
* Serves as the lead taxonomic resource for the organization by researching plant identification and proofreading documents.
* Coordinates and executes processes for periodic review and revisions of plant inventory data.
* Creates and installs accession tags and plant labels; maintains inventory of off-display plant labels.
* Ensures proper maintenance and care of laser engraver and all plant labeling tools and equipment, performs all routine maintenance of equipment.
* Maintains accurate inventory of plant labeling supplies and materials.
* Supports the development of and frequently reviews and updates plant collection policies in coordination with the Associate Director of Horticulture.
* Trains and guides staff on proper implementation of plant records policies and procedures and database usage to ensure records are accurate, thorough, and usable.
* Serves as the primary point of contact for staff, researchers, and the general public for information about the plant collection; responds to requests from internal and external sources for plant material usage.
* Develops reports and other analysis tools to aid in the development and management of the plant collections.
* Supports plant procurement for the plant collections and displays, including overseeing plant donation inquiries, exchanges with other gardens and aiding in decision making that supports institutional plant collections and display goals.
* Supports marketing and electronic media programming including developing and facilitating informational topics including performing media interviews.
* Maintains clear records of all transactions to obtain a balanced budget; assists with preparations of an annual plant records budget.
* Ensures proper use and care of equipment and follows state and federal laws that address the safe use of equipment and the application, storage and disposal of pesticides.This includes the proper use and wear of personal protective equipment (PPE).
* Promptly observes and reports concerns regarding horticultural displays or safety issues, or address situations when appropriate.
* Performs other duties as assigned and demonstrates a focus on serving visitors and guests of the Conservatory.
REQUIREMENTS (Education/ Experience)
* Associates or Bachelors degree in Horticulture, Botany or a related field OR minimum 3 years of hands-on experience in professional landscape/horticulture with excellent knowledge in plant maintenance and pest and disease identification.
* Excellent knowledge of plant identification and nomenclature.
* Professional experience managing or maintaining plant records in a botanical garden preferred.
* Professional experience with IrisBG software preferred.
* Valid Drivers License with the ability to provide own transportation to and from work sites if needed.
* Ability and willingness to work flexible hours including evenings, weekends, holidays and special events as needed.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES (Requirements and Abilities)
* Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
* Proficient knowledge of software programs (Word, Excel, Publisher and Google Workspace) and ability to learn and adapt to various software and technology programs.
* Self motivated, organized and attentive to details.
* Critical thinking skills; the ability to analyze, problem solve and collaborate
* Effective time management skills with the ability to multitask, manage projects, problem solve and meet deadlines.
* Ability to to effectively and accurately process, analyze and configure data; ability to convey technical concepts to non-technical functional team members.
* Ability to cultivate professional, service oriented relationships with staff, volunteers, vendors, donors, and board members.
* Ability to motivate others and foster an environment where teamwork is encouraged and collaboration is valued.
* Ability to work within budgets and support revenue goals.
* Frequently lifts, carries, or otherwise moves materials weighing up to 50lbs to accomplish plant installations and maintenance with or without accommodation.
* Ability and willingness to perform hands-on gardening and other duties in all types of weather, indoors and outdoors: heat and humidity, freezing temperatures, wind and rain.
* Ability to support the mission and values of Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens
EEO Statement:
Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens is an Equal Opportunity Employer. The Conservatory does not discriminate in its employment decisions on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, sex, pregnancy, lactation status, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, disability, veteran or military status, genetic information, or any other protected status. The Conservatory values diversity and is committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.