Conservatory Technician

Norfolk Botanical Garden (NBG) is a renowned public garden dedicated to the conservation, education, and enjoyment of diverse plant collections, creating a vibrant green space that inspires visitors and fosters environmental stewardship. Located in Norfolk, Virginia, this esteemed botanical garden spans over 175 acres and offers numerous biomes, including tropical and desert conservatories, outdoor gardens, and natural habitats. The Garden emphasizes horticultural excellence, sustainability, and public engagement through well-maintained living collections, educational programs, and special events that connect the community with the beauty and importance of plants and nature.

The Conservatory Technician at NBG plays a crucial role in upholding the mission of the Garden by caring for and managing specialized plant collections within designated conservatory biomes. This full-time, non-exempt position averages 40 hours per week, with typical schedules that may include evenings, weekends, and holidays to meet operational demands. The technician collaborates closely with the Conservatory Management team to maintain ideal environmental conditions across biomes, including tropical and desert environments, while ensuring plant health and aesthetic excellence. The role involves applying advanced horticultural techniques such as watering, pruning, soil care, and integrated pest management to sustain vibrant, diverse plant collections. Additionally, this position participates in planning and executing planting schedules, supporting conservation efforts, completing health assessments, and managing database records related to biome collections.

Given the responsibility for both indoor conservatory spaces and select outdoor garden areas, the technician also contributes to larger garden-wide projects, including exhibit installations and environmental system improvements. An essential function of this position is to provide mentorship and training to interns, volunteers, and junior staff, fostering a collaborative work environment steeped in education and professional development. The technician may also serve as a knowledgeable resource for guest engagement, supporting tours and educational programming within the conservatory.

Physically, this role requires stamina and safety awareness as it includes operating small and heavy machinery, lifting equipment, and working in varied weather conditions for extended periods. The technician must demonstrate proficiency with horticultural tools and environmental control systems to ensure the sustainably managed ecosystems within the Garden’s conservatories. The successful candidate will exhibit expertise in tropical and arid plant species, environmental monitoring, plant health diagnostics, and integrated pest management. This role includes compliance with licensing requirements, such as obtaining a Virginia Registered Pesticide Applicator’s license within six months of hire, contributing to the Garden’s commitment to safe and responsible pesticide use.

The Norfolk Botanical Garden values inclusivity and equal employment opportunity in its workforce, actively fostering an environment where all qualified individuals can contribute without discrimination. Offering a competitive hourly wage of $23.00, this position also provides a comprehensive benefits package including health insurance, retirement plans, life insurance, paid time off, professional development assistance, and more, supporting employee wellness and career growth. This rewarding position offers an opportunity for a passionate horticulturist to contribute meaningfully to a premier botanical institution recognized for excellence in plant care, public engagement, and environmental education.