Perry Conservatory Manager

Norfolk Botanical Garden (NBG) is a premier botanical garden located in Norfolk, Virginia, dedicated to inspiring the human spirit through horticultural excellence, environmental stewardship, and exemplary guest experiences. NBG offers a diverse range of gardens, collections, and educational programs that serve as a source of beauty, knowledge, and inspiration for visitors of all ages. Established with a strong commitment to conservation and sustainable practices, NBG continuously strives to maintain and enhance its diverse plant collections and innovative displays, serving as a regional leader in botanical education and environmental responsibility.

NBG is currently seeking a passionate and experienced Conservatory Manager to oversee the daily operations of the newly constructed Perry Conservatory. This state-of-the-art, 26,000 square foot conservatory serves as a vibrant hub where horticultural excellence meets sustainability and guest engagement. The Conservatory Manager will work directly under the Conservatory Director and will be responsible for supervising horticulture staff and volunteers, maintaining plant collections, and managing environmental controls such as temperature, humidity, ventilation, and lighting to optimize plant health and growth.

This full-time role, averaging 40 hours per week, falls under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) exemption and offers an annual salary starting at $58,240. The Conservatory Manager will play a critical leadership role in furthering the Garden’s mission by developing captivating plant displays, engaging the public through tours, classes, garden club talks, and regional outreach events, as well as contributing to written content that highlights the conservatory's offerings and environmental initiatives. This position demands a blend of creative vision, strong leadership, and technical expertise in tropical and desert plant care, pest and disease management, and botanical nomenclature.

The Conservatory Manager will also assist with garden-wide special events and be actively involved in fostering a welcoming and educational environment for visitors. The typical work schedule will be Tuesday through Saturday or Sunday through Thursday but may require flexibility to include evenings, weekends, and holidays depending on Garden events and operational needs. This role involves significant physical activities such as operating golf carts, lifting equipment or supplies up to 50 pounds, working indoors in a greenhouse setting or outdoors in various weather conditions, and performing manual labor including climbing ladders and operating heavy machinery safely.

The ideal candidate will hold a Bachelor’s Degree in Horticulture, Botany, or a related field along with at least three years of experience working in a conservatory or greenhouse environment. Candidates with expertise in tropicals, succulents, or similar plants are preferred. Additionally, the candidate must have or obtain a Virginia Registered Pesticide Applicator’s license within six months of hiring and possess a valid driver’s license with proof of car insurance.

Working at NBG comes with a robust benefits package that supports employee well-being and professional growth. The Garden values its employees by providing health insurance options, retirement plans with matching contributions, life insurance coverage, voluntary benefits, paid time off, and numerous opportunities for professional development. Employees also receive discounts on programming and the gift shop, logo wear, and access to the Employee Assistance Program (EAP).

NBG is an equal employment opportunity employer committed to fostering an inclusive workplace free from discrimination. This position is considered Alpha Personnel, meaning the Conservatory Manager is required to report to work during emergencies and inclement weather as soon as it is safe to do so. This is a unique opportunity for a dedicated horticultural professional to lead and shape a world-class conservatory that enhances public appreciation of plants and sustainability practices.