Position Title: Rainforest Manager

Department: Horticulture

Reports To: Director of Collections

Position Objectives: Manage, improve, interpret, and promote Fairchild’s Rainforest as a world-class horticultural exhibit. Provide leadership and vision to guide volunteers and staff members working on and using the Rainforest. Establish outstanding orchid displays throughout the exhibit.

ABOUT FAIRCHILD TROPICAL BOTANIC GARDEN

Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden is among the world’s best tropical botanic gardens where you fill find internationally renowned collections of cycads, flowering trees, tropical fruits, vines, aroids, and endangered species, which provide a living laboratory for scientists, and the opportunities for discovery for everyone. Fairchild is also a beautiful venue for family-friendly annual events such as the award-winning light spectacular, NightGarden, Chocolate Festival, Mango Festival, and more. With its picturesque paths, vistas, and displays combined with engaging events and activations, Fairchild provides an unforgettable experience for each and every guest.

Job Responsibilities:

Horticulture

• Grow plants to the highest possible standard, maintaining the health and diversity of Fairchild’s scientific collections while maximizing aesthetic appeal.
• Work with the Horticulture team to design new installations, choose plants from the nursery, install new plants, and update Plant Records.
• Work with Grounds and Horticulture teams on fertilizing, pruning, and preserving plant health. Troubleshoot pest, disease, and nutrition issues as they arise.
• Install and maintain orchids in the Rainforest as the core of the National Orchid Garden.

Maintenance

• Inspect the exhibits regularly and address any issues that might affect visitor safety (e.g. slippery pathways, dangerous hanging limbs).
• Work with the Grounds team and volunteers to ensure pathways are kept clear, palm fronds and fallen branches are removed, and weeds and vines are controlled. Open new planting areas by removing invasive and undesirable plants as determined by Director of Collections.
• Keep irrigation, flowing water, and fog systems in working order. Work with Director of Collections and Director of Facilities to follow a routine inspection schedule. Conduct troubleshooting, repairs, and preventative maintenance as needed. Communicate with contractors and service providers who work on these systems.
• Lead storm preparation efforts for the Rainforest prior to arrival of tropical storms or hurricanes. Lead triage and cleanup activities when storm damage occurs.

Exhibit Development

• Establish a unique and cohesive visitor experience within the Rainforest as a world leading example of tropical horticulture.
• Introduce visitors to the greatest tropical plant diversity possible within the exhibit. Develop encyclopedic displays of tropical orchids and expand diversity of key plant groups including palms, cycads, aroids, and gingers.

Education and Outreach

• Assist Education, Marketing, and Special Events departments in interpreting the Rainforest. Assist in the development of educational resources about the exhibit and its plants, including signage.
• Participate in Fairchild’s teaching programs, leading classes and tours for students and the public.
• Assist with Fairchild’s initiatives to establish, curate, and interpret tropical plant collections in public and private landscapes throughout South Florida.
• Mentor Fairchild’s high school and college students in orchid biology and other aspects of tropical plant science and horticulture.

  QUALIFICATIONS:

• Must be at least 18 years old.
• Previous experience of working in a garden, zoo, museum, or themed attraction is a plus.
• Must be able to commit to a flexible schedule. Physical Requirements:
• Prolonged periods standing.
• Must be able to lift, push, and/or pull up to 50 pounds.
• Must be able to work outdoors in a variety of weather conditions.
• Must be able to bend, stoop, climb, reach, and lift up to 40 pounds at a time.

• Salary Commensurate with experience.