San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance is a nonprofit international conservation leader, committed to inspiring a passion for nature and creating a world where all life thrives. Empowering people from around the globe to support our mission to conserve wildlife through innovation and partnerships, we support cutting-edge conservation, and bring the stories of our work back to our two world-famous front doors — the San Diego Zoo and San Diego Zoo Safari Park — giving millions of guests, in person and virtually, the opportunity to experience conservation in action. The deep and extensive knowledge gained from more than a century of experience in wildlife care, health, veterinary services, nutrition and conservation makes us invaluable in the global effort to save species. Our team members play a crucial role in driving our conservation efforts forward and bringing us closer to a world where all life thrives.

HOW YOU WILL IMPACT OUR MISSION

The Horticulturist under direction, performs routine horticulture tasks, grounds maintenance, and tree related work of assigned area; develops new area when necessary. This position reports to a Lead/Supervisor.

WHAT YOU WILL DO

• Mows, edges, irrigates and fertilizes lawns
• Fertilizes and cultivates plantings and shrubs
• Prepares new areas for planting
• Plants transplants and nurtures seedlings and other new plantings
• Collects seeds
• Prunes shrubbery and trees
• Rakes, sweeps and generally maintains an appealing appearance to grounds
• Controls pests
• Answers questions from the public
• May drive motorize vehicles on and off grounds

WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR

• JOB EXPERIENCE
  • Prior commercial gardening and tree work desired

• EDUCATION AND CERTIFICATIONS
  • Current valid California Driver’s License in good standing

• SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE
  • A variety of plants, plant materials and growth principles
  • Horticultural soil conditions and preparations
  • Methods and precautions for applying fertilizers and insecticides
  • Working knowledge of tree removal and maintenance practices
  • Proper watering techniques
  • Work safety practices
  • Layout of the Zoo/Safari Park
  • Effective customer relations skills
  • Comprehend and follow instructions
  • Communicate and work effectively with others
  • Work in a team environment and motivate others
  • Follow directions effectively
  • Deal tactfully and courteously with others

SOME OF THE PERKS YOU WILL ENJOY AS A TEAM MEMBER

• Free admission to the San Diego Zoo and the San Diego Zoo Safari Park
• Family Passes
• Complimentary Tickets
• Local and In-House Discounts
• Employee Assistance Program
• Wellness Program