Head Gardener

Fredericton Botanic Garden Association

closing date: January 31, 2025

The Fredericton Botanic Garden Association (FBGA) is a non-profit organization operating a 21-hectare property adjacent to Odell Park. The site has an eclectic aesthetic and includes ~20 gardens (including a food forest and a native seed nursery), trails, ponds, streams, and forest. Infrastructure includes a resource building, two greenhouses, a potting shed, a utility terrain vehicle, and a maintenance yard.

We are seeking an experienced individual with a broad knowledge of plants, to join our team as Head Gardener. This seasonal position reports to the Executive Director, and works closely with other Garden staff, volunteers, and the Site Development Committee. The successful candidate will supervise other seasonal employees and work both independently and as a team member, always with a focus on safety.

OVERVIEW:

Working within an assigned budget, and in coordination with the Site Development Committee, volunteers, other staff, and partners including the City of Fredericton, the incumbent will plan and execute maintenance of gardens, nurseries, holding beds and green spaces of the Garden, as well as garden-related equipment and infrastructure. They will propagate and maintain different groups of plants including perennials, annuals, evergreens, natives, etc., in the gardens and the greenhouses.

The Head Gardener will assist with Garden events, including workshops, tours, and the annual spring plant sale (including ordering, pricing and preparation, and onsite expertise).

The Head Gardener will train and supervise seasonal staff and volunteers, with a focus on a safe and welcoming working environment. They should be confident in their leadership skills and diplomatic in their delivery.

Often the first point of contact for visitors, the Head Gardener will be a welcoming ambassador for the Garden, in keeping with our principles of equity, diversity, and inclusion.

REQUIREMENTS:

A love of gardening, and enthusiasm for sharing knowledge with volunteers, staff, and visitors.

Degree, certificate, or diploma in ornamental horticulture, or certification as a Master Gardener, or equivalent training and experience.

Two or more years of experience in a supervisory capacity.

Experience in the operation of greenhouses for optimal plant development.

Valid New Brunswick Driver's License and reliable transportation.

Must be able to lift 23 kg, squat, kneel, climb, and stand for extended periods.

Legally entitled to work in Canada at time of application.

Familiarity with the use of basic hand and power tools.

Willingness to work in hot, cold, or wet weather, assuming it is safe to do so.

Basic knowledge of Microsoft Suite of products.

ASSETS

Three or more years of experience working in a botanic garden, or horticultural experience with a municipality, park, or other large venue, or equivalent experience.

The ability to speak French would be a definite asset.

Experience operating a utility terrain vehicle

Access to a truck (the occasional use of which would be compensated)

THE NITTY GRITTY:

Seasonal, 32 - 38 weeks per year

$26.00 - $30.00 an hour

35 hours a week, some evenings and weekends required

2025 season: February 10th - October 31st

To see full job description and apply, please go to www.frederictonbotanicgarden.com/careers