Love nature? Then you’re going to love The Nat.  

The San Diego Natural History Museum (The Nat) was founded by amateur naturalists in 1874 and has played a major role in the conversation of our region. The Nat recently celebrated its 150th anniversary and completed a strategic plan focused on encouraging a love for nature, levering science and collections for conservation, and using our own voice to be here for nature.

The Nat is seeking a skilled Horticulturist to oversee the development, maintenance, and care of our public Native Plant Garden. Under the direction of the Senior Director of Learning and Engagement, the Horticulturist will be responsible for overseeing the garden's health and developing ongoing maintenance & care plans, as well as assisting with public engagement opportunities in the garden. The Horticulturist will be responsible for ongoing development, training and oversight of activities for all Nat Garden Corps volunteers.  

Your Day-to-Day Work  

Garden Maintenance and Stewardship (40%)

• Assess garden conditions and make recommendations about planting, plant replacement, pruning, irrigation, soil management, and garden development. 
• Select and source appropriate replacements for native plants, considering garden design and interpretive priorities, approved species, regional ecology, educational and conservation value, and aesthetic appeal. 
• Monitor plant health, pest presence, and soil conditions through regular observations of the garden. 
• Develop a comprehensive plant care schedule to execute with support from volunteer Garden Leads, including watering, pruning, and integrated pest management (no-pesticides). 
• Lead Garden Corps volunteers in executing plant care schedule. 
• Regularly assess irrigation effectiveness, identify changing water needs, and communicate adjustments, working directly with Parks & Recreation staff, who remotely operate the garden’s irrigation systems. 
• Maintain a high standard of tidiness in the garden, including periodic trash removal and plant care, while keeping the integrity of our garden habitat. 
• Develop and update garden stewardship plans, detailing specific care requirements for each plant species in the garden. 
• Stay informed about horticultural best practices, local environmental policies and impacts, and trends in native plant landscaping. 
• Comply with safety guidelines for horticultural activities, ensuring a safe environment for visitors, staff, and volunteers. 

Volunteer Recruitment, Training and Management (40%) 

• Plan and deliver training program for new Garden Corps volunteers in collaboration with the Volunteer Department, Garden Corps Leads, Science Departments, and partner organizations. 
• Develop and deliver continuing education opportunities for volunteers in collaboration with the Volunteer Department, other Nat staff, and partner organizations. 
• Plan, delegate, and supervise volunteer activities in the garden, including regular maintenance and interpretive engagements. 
• Provide a safe, secure, and inclusive atmosphere for Garden Corps volunteers and garden visitors. 
• Communicate with garden volunteers regularly to share information, disseminate garden-related resources, fill shifts, and recognize volunteers. 
• Collaborate with Volunteer Department on volunteer appreciation and recognition of events, awards, and activities. 

Interpretive Program Development and Delivery (10%) 

• Assist Learning & Engagement team with planning and execution of garden-related events, programs, and presentations, both on-site and in the community. 
• Deliver mission-driven interpretive presentations and facilitate educational programs and tours focused on our garden, native plant cultivation, and conservation. 
• Collaborate with museum volunteers to facilitate garden-based engagement programs. 
• Represent the Museum at occasional outreach events and speaking engagements. 
• Provide feedback, edit, and update program documents, visual aids, and curricula for garden-related programs and activities. 

Administrative and Other Duties (10%) 

• Keep detailed records of garden maintenance activities, plant inventory, and any changes related to the garden. 
• Purchase and maintain inventory of tools, soil, amendments, and equipment needed for garden maintenance. 
• Co-develop annual garden budget with support from the Senior Director of Learning & Engagement and Director of Volunteer Programs. Track and report on expenses. 
• Collaborate with the Exhibits team to periodically review and update garden signage and non-living garden fixtures. 
• Facilitate access to the garden for scientists, community scientists, and Indigenous community members to conduct garden-based activities, including scientific observations, and the sustainable harvest of plant materials. 
• Collaborate with researchers and community scientists. Participate in data collection and research activities, including oversight of long-term community science study of garden biodiversity. 
• Other duties as assigned. 

Supporting Other Operational Functions as Needed

• Set up/break down for garden-related events
• Consult on programs, curricula, exhibits, and research projects related to horticulture and native plants as needed.

What You Bring   

• Knowledge of Southern California's native plant species and their ecological and cultural significance. 
• Understanding of sustainable gardening practices and water-efficient irrigation systems. 
• Excellent customer service and Interpersonal skills. Ability to collaborate effectively with volunteers, staff, partners, and the public. 
• Ability to work independently, prioritize tasks, and handle multiple projects simultaneously. 
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail 
• Physical ability to perform horticultural tasks, including bending, lifting, and prolonged outdoor work. 
• Passion for environmental conservation and promoting the significance of native plant species. 
• Demonstrated commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and justice 
• Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite 

Education and Experience

Required: 

• Bachelor’s degree in Horticulture, Botany, Biology, Environmental Science, or a related field and 1+ year of relevant experience preferred, OR 3+ years of equivalent experience without a Bachelor’s degree 
• Proven experience in horticulture, preferably in the care of native plants. 
• Prior experience managing complex projects, as well as volunteers or staff. 

Preferred: 

• Prior experience in nonformal education, interpretation, or customer service. 
• Experience with native garden design. 
• First-aid / CPR certification 
• Bilingual highly desired (Spanish, Tagalog, Vietnamese) 

Time Commitment:

• This is a part-time, non-exempt position. 
• Work schedule is 20-29 hours per week. Availability on Tuesdays and Saturdays is required. 

Pay: $27.32/hour.

Employees enjoy free admission into all of Balboa Park’s museums as well as free admission to the San Diego Zoo and Safari Park. Learn more about the Museum’s benefits here.