Head Gardener/Tropical Plant Curator

Job Description

Job Description

Exciting Opportunity for an Experienced Gardener!
A farm in Dover, MA is looking for a very experienced Head Gardener to help a large team with the many disparate gardens and horticultural needs of the farm. Experience with formal and informal annual and perennial formats as well as a diverse knowledge base of the native forests, flora and Fauna of Central New England. Most importantly they must also have experience with tropical plant maintenance and propagation. Working closely with the estate manager, a team of knowledgeable grounds keepers, an expert horticulturist and landscape designer, the head gardener will be an instrumental addition to a large team, ensuring exceptional standards, and creativity in the plant space. Knowledge of tropical plants, New England flora, soil science, IPM, irrigation and climate zones are required.

This is an excellent opportunity to learn from the best, be part of an exceptional team, while bringing your own knowledge and creativity to the team.

Competitive Compensation and Robust Benefits package accompany this position!

Primary Responsibilities include but are not limited to:

• Working with the creator of the tropical plant collection. The head gardener will help with plant maintenance and propagation of an extensive and rare tropical plant collection. And aiding in seasonal movement of the collection to various properties throughout MA.
• Work collaboratively with all members of the Estate team: gardeners, groundskeepers, and other experts in their fields. The principal has a horticulturist and landscape designer that are part of the larger team and will be a great resource and support system. This is an excellent opportunity to learn from the best, be part of an exceptional team, while bringing your own knowledge and creativity to the team.
• Demonstrate expertise in the growth and care of trees, shrubs, perennials, annual flowers and native landscapes. We treat the forest as a living and independent garden. That requires a keen eye and a light definitive touch when needed.
• Identify and create a comprehensive IPM (Integrative Pest management) system for the estate, with organic practices always as a top priority.
• Assist with landscape design, restoration, and maintenance. Understanding greenhouse and hoop house operations, maintenance and care of plants in the northeast seasonal environment.
• Test and research different cultivation techniques. A desire to learn and progress personally within the field.
• Assist the Estate Manager with applicable project estimates that are garden specific. Recommend best practices through strong written and verbal communication.
• Organize and give presentations/demonstrations relating to the estate gardens.
• Strong interpersonal skills and high emotional intelligence are paramount to this unique role. We are a large, highly functioning and diverse team that moves at many speeds. And we are excited to invite the right professional into our team!!

Qualifications, Education, Experience, Skills, and Knowledge:

• A bachelor’s degree in Horticulture is desired, but experience is also as valuable. We strongly support continued education of one’s craft.
• Qualified individuals must have a minimum of 5-10 years of hands-on experience demonstrating increasing responsibilities in the field/profession.
• Must be physically able to lift 50 lbs. and perform physically strenuous tasks in a variety of weather conditions.
• Must be legally authorized to work in the US without requiring visa sponsorship.
• Must have a current and active driver’s license.
• Must successfully pass pre-employment requirements.