Greenhouse Propagation Manager

ABOUT US Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens offers world-class horticulture, art & nature-based exhibitions and educational programs.

The 13-acre indoor and outdoor facilitysituated two miles from downtown Columbusfeatures glasshouses including the historic John F.

Wolfe Palm House; botanical gardens including the Scotts Miracle-Gro Foundation Childrens Garden and Scotts Miracle Gro-Foundation Community Garden Campus; and event venues.

The Conservatory is home to the largest collection of Chihuly glass in a botanical garden and Light Raiment II by internationally renowned artist James Turrell.

Committed to the community, the Conservatory strives to provide an accessible and welcoming experience to all.

MISSION As a premier botanical garden destination, we connect people to nature and create life enhancing experiences.

VISION Envision a world that celebrates nature as essential to the human experience.

JOB SUMMARY The Greenhouse Propagation Manager is a key member of the Horticulture and Exhibitions team responsible for managing all aspects of plant production, propagation, and greenhouse operations to support Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens permanent collections, seasonal displays, exhibits, and special projects.

This role oversees crop scheduling, plant care, pest management, and facility oversight while collaborating closely with the Director of Horticulture and Exhibitions, Associate Directors, horticulture staff, designers, and other departments.

The Manager also manages volunteers, and outside vendor contracts.

They ensure alignment with the Conservatorys mission, uphold the Collections Policy, and maintain the highest horticultural standards in alignment with sustainability goals.

Additional Information: This is an on site full-time exempt position based in Columbus, Ohio.

Out of State Applicants would need to be able to relocate to Central Ohio in order to be considered for this role.

This position is eligible for the Conservatory's benefit package offered to full-time employees, which includes medical, dental and vision insurance, company paid Life/AD&D/Short-Term and Long-Term Disability insurance, participation in the Ohio Public Employees Retirement Program (OPERS), optional 457(b) Deferred Compensation plan, generous Paid Time Off (PTO), and complimentary membership to the Conservatory.

Compensation: $64,000 - $68,000 annual salary.

RESPONSIBILITIES * Develop, implement, and oversee all aspects of plant production, propagation, and maintenance activities, including watering, fertilization, pruning, potting, temperature control, lighting, irrigation systems, and maintaining clean, organized spaces.

* Create and manage crop schedules, ensuring deadlines are met for exhibits, displays, and permanent collections.

* Determine spatial use of greenhouse facilities to align with collections goals, exhibitions, and special projects.

* Collaborate with designers to ensure plant selections, quantities, and sizes meet design intent.

* Research, trial, and recommend new plant varieties.

* Support long-range planning for collection development.

* Provide plant database management, labeling, and inventory oversight.

* Uphold the Collections Policy, preventing unauthorized use of greenhouse space.

* Monitor for pests, diseases, and nutrient issues; develop IPM strategies using biological controls alongside conventional treatments.

* Coordinate with the Conservatory Manager for care of plants moving between biomes and the greenhouse.

* Quarantine and treat incoming plants appropriately.

* Oversee daily operations and environmental controls (e.g., MicroGro system), working with Security and Engineering as appropriate.

* Oversee and coordinate troubleshooting of mechanical, irrigation, and environmental systems with the Engineering department to ensure timely resolution and optimal operation.

Manage Maintenance needs such as cleaning algae from floors, windowpanes and benches.

* Identify volunteer needs and coordinate with the Volunteer Manager.

* Participates in the preparation and administration of the horticulture budget and maintains clear records of all costs and spendings to obtain a balanced budget.

* Monitors the inventory of tools and supplies, monitors ordering and delivery of product while maintaining the budget.

* Ensures proper use and care of equipment and follows state and federal laws that address the safe use of equipment and the application, storage and disposal of pesticides.

This includes the proper use and wear of personal protective equipment (PPE). * Performs other duties as assigned and demonstrates a focus on serving visitors and guests of the Conservatory.

KNOWLEDGE AND EXPERIENCE REQUIRED * Bachelors degree in Horticulture, Plant Science, or related field (Associates degree with equivalent professional experience considered). * Minimum 35 years of progressive, hands-on greenhouse experience, including plant propagation, crop scheduling, environmental controls, and IPM; public garden experience preferred.

* 2+ years supervisory experience managing staff, interns, or volunteers.

* Proven ability in plant health diagnostics, budgeting, record keeping, and coordination with facilities or engineering teams.

* Valid Ohio Pesticide Applicators License (or ability to obtain within 6 months). * Valid Forklift Certification (or ability to obtain within 6 months). * Valid drivers license and reliable transportation.

* Ability and willingness to work flexible hours including evenings, weekends, holidays and special events as needed.

SKILLS REQUIRED AND RESULTS TYPICALLY ACHIEVED * Extensive knowledge of tropical plants, plant nutrition, pest and disease identification, plant physiology, and cultural care.

* Proficiency with mechanical equipment, greenhouse automation systems, and irrigation troubleshooting.

* Strong organizational, planning, and communication skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities.

* Experience with contract management and Microsoft Office Suite.

* Ability to work in varied environmental conditions, including heat, humidity, cold, and wet weather.

* Frequently lifts, carries, or otherwise moves materials weighing up to 50lbs to accomplish installation and maintenance with or without accommodations.

* Ability to climb ladders for plant care.

* Serve as primary point of contact for the MicroGro call-out alarm system with backup coverage.

* Rotating weekend and holiday watering duties.

* Ability to cultivate professional, service-oriented relationships with staff, volunteers, vendors, donors, and board members.

* Ability to motivate others and foster an environment where teamwork is encouraged and collaboration is valued.

* Ability to support the mission and values of Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens.

EEO Statement: Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

The Conservatory does not discriminate in its employment decisions on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, sex, pregnancy, lactation status, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, disability, veteran or military status, genetic information, or any other protected status.

The Conservatory values diversity and is committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.