Historic Horticultural Specialist - Seasonal

About This Role

This role involves planning, managing, maintaining, and interpreting historic vegetable and herb gardens at the Bussard farmstead. The specialist will research historically appropriate crops, develop interpretive gardening programs, and contribute to visitor experience.

Responsibilities

• Maintain garden through planting, watering, weeding, pruning, mulching, and other outdoor tasks
• Research and create plans for historically appropriate crops
• Develop and maintain a planting plan considering historic interpretation, beauty, visitor experience, ease of maintenance, year-round interest, and food production
• Inventory and recommend acquisition of plant materials, supplies, and tools
• Monitor and manage soil health and fertility
• Maintain and repair irrigation systems
• Operate M-NCPPC gardening equipment, including leaf blower, weed trimmer, sprayers, and manual tools
• Scout plantings for evidence of insect and disease problems and treat as necessary
• Coordinate with M-NCPPC ground crews for proper weeding and mulching
• Manage and schedule gardening volunteers
• Work with other AHFP staff to develop and run public programming, special tours, and workshops
• Assist with AHFP Gardening Club

Requirements

• Bachelor’s Degree in horticulture, agriculture, botany, or plant science with 2+ years relevant experience OR 3+ years combined education and experience in these fields
• In-depth knowledge of plant culture, maintenance, and identification
• Ability to lift 50lbs
• Ability to work outdoors all year round
• Ability to operate motor vehicles (e.g., F250 pickup trucks)
• Valid Maryland driver’s license

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree or higher
• 2+ years of relevant experience in horticulture, agriculture, botany, or plant science OR 3+ years combined education and experience in relevant fields.

Nice to Have

• Organic vegetable gardening experience
• Fruit tree cultivation experience
• Good color vision, depth perception, and senses of taste and smell
• Experience supervising volunteers or staff