Director of Horticulture

Lincoln Park Zoo inspires communities to create environments where wildlife will thrive in our urbanizing world. The zoo is a leader in local and global conservation, animal care and welfare, learning, and science. A historic Chicago landmark founded in 1868, the not-for-profit Lincoln Park Zoo is a privately managed, member-supported organization and is free and open 365 days a year.

 

GENERAL SUMMARY

The Department of Animal Care and Horticulture is an integrated, mission-driven team dedicated to caring for the plants and animals that call Lincoln Park Zoo their home. We are seeking an experienced and hands-on Director of Horticulture to lead the strategic and daily management of the zoo’s horticultural operations and programs. This role blends horticultural expertise with strong leadership, administrative skills, and a willingness to work alongside staff and volunteers in the field when needed.

 

The Director of Horticulture is a fully on-site position overseeing the maintenance, planning, and ongoing development of the zoo’s seasonal display plantings, botanic garden, , arboretum, and the iconic Nature Boardwalk landscape. In addition, the Director provides plant guidance to enhance animal wellbeing, collaborates closely with learning and community engagement teams, partners with the events team, and works with scientific staff on conservation and research initiatives.

 

This position is also responsible for upholding the zoo’s accreditations from Botanic Gardens Conservation International, ArbNet, the American Public Gardens Association Plant Collections Network, and the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. The Director oversees the Manager of Plant Records and Horticulture Programs, the Manager of Horticulture Operations, and a team of four full-time Horticulturists, and provides general oversight for seasonal staff and interns. This position also ensures that all horticultural operations align with regulatory requirements, animal safety protocols, budgetary practices, and the zoo’s strategic plan.

 

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

• Direct the maintenance, planning, and continued development of Nature Boardwalk, arboretum and botanic garden, interiorscapes of zoo buildings, and animal habitats.

• Develop and implement department goals in alignment with Lincoln Park Zoo’s vision and strategic plan.

• Mentor horticulture staff to set individual goals and encourage continued growth of horticultural skills and expertise.

• Lead Horticulture Committee meetings consisting of Board of Trustees members oard and partners.

• Ensure the implementation of the Lincoln Park Zoo Landscape Standards on facilities and capital landscape projects.

• Ensure that plant acquisitions are ethically sources and align with the organizational mission, educational priorities, and aesthetic goals outlined in the Lincoln Park Zoo Garden and Plant Accessions Policy.

• Work closely with the Director of Veterinary Services, Nutrition Manager, and animal area Curators to continue enhancing the browse program and ensure plant–animal safety on zoo grounds.

• Provide general oversight of the plant records system, mapping of plant locations, and labeling of plant materials on zoo grounds.

• Prepare and implement the annual budget for the horticulture program.

• Oversee the design of seasonal displays including winter holiday greens, bulbs, early spring, summer, and fall annuals.

• Bid out and secure contracts for horticulture services as necessary. Serve as the main organizational contact for horticulture contractors.

• Act as liaison with other zoo departments to efficiently direct horticulture efforts to support programmatic and operational needs.

• Develop individual and group volunteer opportunities in collaboration with the Director of Volunteer Services.

• Create a positive work environment where horticulture staff, interns, and volunteers feel supported and valued.

• Assist the Development Department in preparing funding proposals for horticulture projects.

• Represent the zoo in meetings and interactions with current and potential donors, Board members, and partners.

 

ADDITIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES (as needed)

• Coordinate interdepartmental projects with teams such as facilities, animal care, and urban wildlife.

• Prepare plant lists, illustrations, and pricing for future garden funding opportunities.

• Perform horticultural maintenance tasks such as planting, pruning, weeding, mulching, edging, and watering.

• Facilitate garden tours.

• Develop presentations and deliver them to a wide range of audiences.

 

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES

• Advanced knowledge of plant taxa and cultural needs.

• Advanced knowledge of arboriculture, as well as appropriate gardening techniques and practices.

• Strong verbal and written communication skills in business English; ability in public speaking and facilitating group discussions.

• Ability to deliver programs to diverse audiences.

• Ability to implement and enforce safe work practices.

• Ability to respond calmly and effectively in emergency situations involving humans or animals.

• Ability to understand and follow oral and written directions.

• Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple tasks.

• Ability to interact courteously and respectfully with supervisors, colleagues, volunteers, zoo visitors, and the general public.

• Ability to operate vehicles and equipment.

 

EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS

Minimum of a BS/BA with a focus on horticulture, botany, plant science, or a related field.

 

EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS

Minimum of 7 years full-time experience in a public garden, accredited zoo, or equivalent setting, with at least 3 years in a supervisory role..

 

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

Ability to lift up to 75 lbs on a frequent basis. Ability to stand for long periods and frequently bend, stoop, reach, and climb. Ability to safely and effectively use program tools and equipment. Ability to navigate slippery or muddy surfaces and uneven terrain. Ability to work in all weather conditions. No allergies to plants or animals that could interfere with job duties.

 

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

• Must be able to adapt to and embrace change in a fast-paced and dynamic work environment.

• Must be able to respond immediately to horticulture-related emergencies (on call after hours).

• Available to work special events outside of regular schedule as assigned.

• Must be willing and able to perform duties of other divisions as directed and be available for stand-by work or emergencies.

• Must have a valid driver’s license with a good driving record.

• Ability to work a flexible schedule seasonally.

 

 

OUR PROMISE

 

Lincoln Park Zoo is committed to an environment that is inclusive and welcoming. We celebrate the diverse qualities, perspectives, values, and experiences of all people.  For Wildlife. For All.

 

LINCOLN PARK ZOO BENEFITS

 

In addition to such standard benefits (Blue Cross Blue Shield) as medical, dental, vision, life, and disability coverages, and a 403(b) savings plan with an institutional match, benefits of working at the zoo include (benefits are for regular full-time employees):

• Free admission to many other Chicago cultural institutions
• Free on-site parking anytime with access to Lincoln Park, Lakeshore Trail, and North Avenue Beach
• Discounts on event tickets (free admission to select events), attractions, dining, and retail at the zoo
• Quarterly staff mingle events and “LPZooU” training and educational sessions about the zoo, wildlife, ecology, and related subjects
• Company contribution to Health Savings Account (Medical PPO only)
• A working environment with green spaces and regularly available visits with wildlife!

 

 

Salary: $85k-$90k/annually