Employment Opportunities

Employment Opportunities

Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. Fairchild is a Drug-Free workplace.

Senior Horticulturist

DEPARTMENT: Horticulture

REPORTS TO: Director of Collections

JOB TYPE: Full-Time

SALARY: Commensurate with experience.

JOB DESCRIPTION:

We are seeking a knowledgeable and passionate Senior Horticulturist to join our team at Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of plant science and have a passion for tropical botany. The role involves hands-on garden work, managing, maintaining, and developing our diverse plant collections, and playing a critical role in supervising and providing resources for our volunteers in collaboration with supervisor and staff. The Senior Horticulturist will also assist with plant acquisition in collaboration with colleagues in the botanic garden and plant conservation communities.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

Perform and oversee outdoor garden work including planting, weeding, pruning, and more, with the assistance of a team of gardeners and volunteers.
Manage, maintain, and enhance the health and aesthetics of Fairchild’s plant collections.
Develop and implement horticultural plans and garden designs that align with the strategic objectives of the organization.
Provide expert advice on the care, maintenance, and propagation of a diverse range of tropical plants.
Maintain, monitor, and design irrigation systems in collaboration with horticulture staff.
Work closely with other horticulture staff, interns, and volunteers, providing supervision and acting as a key resource for volunteers.
Collaborate with colleagues in the botanic garden and plant conservation communities to acquire new plants for Fairchild’s collection.
Collaborate with education and research staff on projects related to plant conservation and outreach.
Prepare reports and maintain records related to plant health, propagation, and growth.
Comply with all safety and environmental guidelines.

QUALIFICATIONS:

A bachelor’s degree in Horticulture, Botany, Plant Science or a related field. A master’s degree is preferred.
A minimum of 5 years of experience in a botanical garden, nursery, or similar setting, with at least 2 years in a supervisory role.
Extensive knowledge of tropical plant species, including their care, maintenance, and propagation.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
Strong organizational and leadership skills.
Proficiency in using horticultural tools and equipment safely and effectively.
Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions and to perform physically demanding tasks.
Familiarity with computer software, including databases used for maintaining plant records.
A valid driver’s license.

Physical Requirements:

This position requires the ability to stand, kneel, bend, and walk for extended periods, as well as the ability to lift and carry heavy objects (up to 50 lbs).

Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

Click here to apply.

Rainforest Manager

DEPARTMENT: Horticulture

REPORTS TO: Director of Collections

JOBTYPE: Full-Time

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.

RESPONSIBILITIES:
• 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.

Please apply with this link .

Million Orchid Project Manager

REPORTS TO: Orchid Biologist

LOCATION: Coral Gables, Florida

SALARY:  Commensurate with experience

ABOUT THE PROGRAM:

Fairchild is revitalizing South Florida’s rare, native orchid populations through the innovative Million Orchid Project. This citizen science initiative is successfully increasing orchid abundance by engaging thousands of schoolchildren and volunteers in the propagation and planting of orchids in public urban landscapes.

The project is unique in its unprecedented scale, focus on public spaces, and commitment to community involvement. By cultivating a sense of environmental stewardship and appreciation for native orchids, the Million Orchid Project contributes to the rejuvenation of South Florida’s natural environment.

We are currently seeking a dedicated and passionate Million Orchid Project Manager to join our team and help us achieve our goal of propagating and planting one million native orchids in local, urban, public landscapes.

This position affords room for advancement. A successful manager will have the opportunity to expand to additional Fairchild conservation and education programming.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

Oversee the propagation, distribution, and reintroduction of native orchid species, in alignment with our organizational goals and objectives.

Develop, organize, implement, and manage all operational processes of the program.
Foster a collaborative and inclusive working environment, ensuring team members have the necessary resources, training, and support to excel in their roles.
Manage the orchid related educational programs, including Fairchild Challenge and STEMLab; the mobile orchid propagation lab that visits local middle schools, and outreach activities.

Coordinate with field biologists, horticulturists, and volunteers to monitor and assess the success of reintroduced orchids, implementing adaptive management strategies as needed.
Develop and manage project budgets, allocating resources efficiently to maximize the impact of our efforts.
Work with others to secure funding and resources for the program by developing and submitting grant proposals, securing sponsorships, and establishing partnerships.
Maintain accurate records and documentation of project activities and prepare regular progress reports for internal and external stakeholders.
Oversee the cultivation and maintenance of orchid species in our lab and greenhouse facilities, ensuring optimal growing conditions and adherence to best practices. (Training provided if necessary.)

Work with teachers to implement orchid conservation activities in classrooms, schoolyards, and surrounding neighborhoods.
Collaborate with local communities, schools, government agencies, and other stakeholders to promote awareness and garner support for the project.
Represent the organization at conferences, workshops, and other events, presenting project updates and building strategic partnerships.
Stay current on the latest research, trends, and best practices in orchid conservation and restoration, and apply this knowledge to continuously improve project outcomes.

QUALIFICATIONS:

Bachelor’s degree or higher in Business Administration, Non-Profit Management, Public Administration, Biology, Environmental Sciences, Horticulture, or a related field.
A minimum of 5 years of experience in project or program management or a relevant equivalent.
A minimum of 3 years’ experience in developing and implementing business strategies, inventory management, sourcing, materials management, planning/forecasting and product lifecycle management, or relevant equivalent.
Experience in financial operations or related fields.
Excellent project management skills, with a proven track record of successfully executing complex projects from inception to completion.

Exceptional verbal and written communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage and inspire diverse audiences.
Experience working with volunteers, community groups, and diverse stakeholders in a collaborative setting.
Exceptional attention to detail, organization, problem-solving and multitasking abilities, and time-management skills
Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, GIS software, and other relevant technology tools.

Proficiency in grant writing, proposal writing and/or contract administration.
Knowledge of orchid biology, ecology, and/or cultivation techniques is a plus. (Training provided if necessary).
A passion for plant conservation, restoration, orchid species, and a commitment to the mission of Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

Prolonged periods standing.
Must be able to work outdoors in a variety of weather conditions.
The ability to lift up to 20lbs.

Click here to apply. No phone calls. 

Orchid Technician

JOB TYPE: Part-Time Seasonal

DEPARTMENT: Horticulture

REPORTS TO: Orchid Biologist

POSITION OBJECTIVES: The primary duties of the orchid technician will be to coordinate the delivery and installation of orchids at municipal sites throughout Miami. Employees will also assist in all aspects of the National Orchid Garden and Million Orchid Project including general maintenance of laboratory, garden, nursery stocks. Basic horticulture knowledge of tropical and subtropical orchids and their ecology is required. Due to the physical nature of the job, technicians should maintain a certain level of fitness. The ability to work on ladders, climb, and/or balance is essential. The job includes driving work vehicles and employees must either possess or have the ability to obtain a State of FL driver license.

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES:

At most times the Orchid technician will be required to work with little to no supervision and must be able to exercise independent judgment and make independent decisions.
Must work with a sense of urgency within designated time frames in order to complete tasks.
Employees are required to climb and balance on ladders and/or trees.
The ability to drive and navigate through the greater Miami area.
Work with typical landscape equipment, ladders, and planting materials is essential.
Other duties as assigned by your supervisor.
The responsibilities listed above are general responsibilities of the position and are not designed to be all-inclusive of every task assigned.

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 frequently lift and/or move up to 40 lbs.
Must be able to work outside in varying climatic conditions that include excessive heat and humidity.

Click here to apply. No phone calls.

Fairchild Challenge Program Coordinator

DEPARTMENT: Education

REPORTS TO: Director of Education

JOBTYPE: Full-Time

ABOUT THE PROGRAM:

Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden is seeking a talented and motivated individual to coordinate the award-winning STEM education program, The Fairchild Challenge. The Fairchild Challenge is an interdisciplinary, environmental science competition designed to engage students of diverse interests, abilities, talents and backgrounds to explore the natural world. The program has been recognized as a benchmark for exceptional STEM education and for empowering PreK – 12th grade students to become the next generation of scientists, researchers, educated voters, policy makers, and environmentally-minded community members. The Challenge is linked with Fairchild’s major science initiatives, including the Million Orchid Project, Growing Beyond Earth and Connect to Protect Network

The Fairchild Challenge Program Coordinator will assist in developing, implementing, and assessing the Fairchild Challenge.

A successful candidate will:

Develop Fairchild Challenge program curriculum including classroom resources and Challenge activities and training sessions, that align with local and national academic standards and Common Core
Coordinate detailed program logistics and event planning
Use proven communication skills with teachers, students, partners, and administrators to respond to requests for clarifications, additional information and procedures
Stay organized so they can produce Challenge timelines, reports, and statistics on an ongoing basis that serve to document the progress and create an archival record of the program
Be thorough when attending to financial tasks, including budget reconciliation and program expenditures
Assist with the coordination of research and evaluation relating to the program
Think creatively when planning and facilitating teacher professional development and student workshops associated with the challenges
Actively communicate with and recruit new and veteran volunteers for challenge evaluations and events
Assist in the development of new research initiatives as opportunities arise
Proactively attend to other Education and Fairchild duties as required

A successful candidate should have:

Experience in science education with degrees in Biology or Environmental Science preferred
Formal or informal teaching experience
Experience in grant writing and reporting preferred
Fluency in a language other than English including Spanish, Haitian Creole, Portuguese, etc.
Availability to work some weekends and evenings
Effective communication skills and experience speaking to diverse groups of people
A commitment to fostering a positive work environment, being flexible, proactive and ready to anticipate and troubleshoot program details
A strong work ethic

Salary is commensurate with experience.

Click here to apply. No phone calls.

K-8 Botany Magnet Schools Program Educator (Part Time)

DEPARTMENT: Education

JOB TYPE: Part Time

JOB OBJECTIVES: Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden, in Coral Gables, Florida is seeking a talented and motivated educator to assist in the development and facilitation of Fairchild’s botany magnet K-8 programs, in partnership with Miami-Dade County Public School.

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES:

The primary role of this position is to assist the Magnet Coordinator as Fairchild’s education liaison to the STArts Magnet Program with 5 Miami-Dade County K-8 Magnet Schools. The STArts program is designed to provide students with an exciting, hands-on, and challenging STEM curriculum focused on botany. This innovative program provides immersive learning through hands-on science methods, real-world research opportunities, and applications of innovative learning strategies in both the school classroom and through yearly visits to the Garden. The program aims to nurture forward thinking, action-oriented, highly skilled, problem solvers who will become global citizens working towards environmental sustainability.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

Curriculum Development and Implementation
- Assist with developing and implementing age-appropriate standards-based plant science curriculum
- Lead plant science-based programming at Fairchild for students K-8.
- Aid with development and maintenance of outdoor garden spaces at the schools.
- Attend various school events as a STArts partner including Science Night, Open House, Career Day, Earth Day, School Planting Day, etc.
- Help create and conduct 5 weeks of STArts specific summer camp program with Magnet Coordinator, held at Fairchild that is tailor to specific MDCPS needs.
- Facilitate opportunities for students to actively contribute to Fairchild’s on-going research projects including: The Million Orchid Project and Growing Beyond Earth
- Coordinate and train both teachers and students for on-site research projects at the 5 STArts partners’ campuses including Fairchild’s Million Orchid Project and Growing Beyond Earth when applicable.
Teacher Professional Development
- Assist in the implementation of Fairchild teacher professional development workshops as they pertain to Fairchild’s mission
Other tasks as determined by the Magnet School Coordinator and Director of Education

POSITION REQUIREMENTS:

BA in Biology, Environmental Science, Science Education, or related fields; MS preferred
Minimum of one year formal or informal teaching experience
Effective communication skills and experience speaking to diverse groups of people
Team player with a positive, can-do attitude who is flexible, proactive and can anticipate and troubleshoot program details
Creative, organized, efficient and detail orientated, with a strong work ethic

This position reports to the Magnet School Coordinator. Salary is commensurate with experience.

Apply at this link.

Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden is an Equal Opportunity Employer and in compliance with ADA/Drug-free Workplace.

Security

REPORTS TO: Manager of Events & Operations

JOB TYPE: Part Time (20 hours/week)

SALARY: $15/hr.

LOCATION: Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden, Coral Gables, Florida

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES:

Act as garden security overnight, for special events and other times when needed
Close garden and garden buildings when needed for afterhours events; secures all gardens and reopens are appropriate times

Makes scheduled tours of grounds by vehicle or walking to ensure security, and watches for conditions that could result in injury.

Reports to supervisor or police authorities any unusual or suspicious condition detected
Reports to supervisor any incidence of visitor, driver or employee actions which could result in injury or loss to company employees

Reports to supervisor any landscape lighting outages or other garden maintenance issues that appear to be not working
Using provided communication devices such as two-way radios in a clear and concise manner

Other duties as assigned by your supervisor.

REQUIREMENTS

Minimum 1-2 years of experience as a Security Guard or similar role
Inspect and patrol premises regularly
Ability to multi-task and maintain a calm demeanor in a stressful environment
Must be available on a flexible schedule including weekends, special events, and holidays hours
Must have unrestricted authorization to work in the United States
Must hold a valid driver’s license and be able to operate a vehicle
Requires a high school diploma or its equivalent

Click here to apply. No phone calls.

Retail & Admissions Associate

REPORTS TO: Retail Manager

JOB TYPE: Part Time

SALARY: $16/hr

LOCATION: Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden, Coral Gables, Florida

POSITION DESCRIPTION:

Retail Associates should be prepared to work as part of a team by being friendly, courteous, and respectful of fellow team members and expressing a positive attitude. They are expected to be active salespeople and provide exceptional guest services. Associates work with a sense of urgency within designated time frames in order to complete tasks and actively seek out new assignments. Associates should arrive on time and be ready to work at the start of their shift. Associates are expected to work standing and walking throughout their shift, but sitting or driving may also be included in the day’s tasks. They frequently lift up to 30 pounds, with occasional lifting up to 50 pounds, and are expected to climb ladders while holding merchandise. They are expected to work in both indoor and outdoor environments according to their assigned tasks for the day.

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES:

Greeting, making eye contact, smiling, and starting conversations with all guests.
Educating self about products in order to share this knowledge with guests. Educating self about Garden promotions, activities, and initiatives with the ability to express them to guests. Understanding and expressing all membership promotions, donation programs, and Shop sales. Educating self about daily activities and events as listed on the daily sheet or as received via email. Participating in daily morning update meetings.
Selling tickets, merchandise, and memberships following The Shop at Fairchild’s Membership and Sales script.
Providing accurate, factual, and engaging information about the Garden and its programs/initiatives.
Resolving basic membership problems, referring complicated issues to the membership department.
Preparing food and coffee, cleaning the food sales area, and stocking the food sales area following daily checklists.
Answering phones in a friendly and welcoming way. Processing phone or special orders.
Working on the sales floor when not busy at the register, either on assigned tasks or by seeking out new tasks.
Assisting customers with items in the jewelry case, items in backstock, and heavy or bulky items.
Following all cash handling and inventory control procedures of The Shop at Fairchild. Operating the cash register in an efficient and knowledgeable manner.
Unpacking and verifying merchandise deliveries. Stocking shelves, including regularly rotating products. Restocking and straightening items on shelves. Putting backstock and understock away underneath displays and in the closet, in a neat, organized, and efficient manner. Performing inventory counts as assigned.
Building eye-catching, relevant, and timely merchandise displays.
Resolving all guest complaints, involving a supervisor if necessary. Answering all guest questions, including researching answers and following up with guests.
Welcoming group tours, processing the group quickly and efficiently, and directing group to their activities for the day.
Working as part of the Visitor Services team by substituting in other areas of the department, including but not limited to Admissions Chalets, Group Tour Sales, South Gate, Reception, Information Desk, kiosk duty, shuttle and tram service, and Visitor Services volunteer supervision.
Opening and closing store, and providing basic customer service resolution, in the absence of a manager.
Other duties as assigned by your supervisor.

REQUIREMENTS

Minimum 1-2 years experience in Retail Sales and/or Customer Service
Hospitality experience a plus
Strong project management skills
Excellent problem-solving and organizational skills
Excellent verbal and written comprehension and communication skills
Ability to multi-task and maintain a calm demeanor in a stressful environment
Must have unrestricted authorization to work in the United States
Must be able to lift up to 30lbs

Click here to apply. No phone calls.

Facilities Associate

JOB TYPE: Part-time

PAY: $16.00 per hour

REPORTS TO: Events & Operations Manager

JOB OBJECTIVE: To provide event setup services and housekeeping for the main Garden facilities

Janitorial Duties/Responsibilities:

Performs cleaning, housekeeping, and related tasks throughout the assigned property.
Remove all trash from buildings and grounds daily.
Monitor trash removal during the day to avoid accumulation.
Clean windows and doors daily
Sweep and mop floors throughout the facility, including all meeting rooms
Clean restrooms and common areas twice a day. Ensure restrooms are monitored at least every two hours to ensure its cleanliness

Other:

Assist with set-up and break down of events and meeting rooms as needed
Assist staff, volunteers, and visitors with any problems and/or emergencies
Attend weekly department meeting
Wear issued uniform and name badge every day

Required Skills/Abilities:

Proper use of various cleaning and sanitizing solutions.
Detail-oriented and thorough.
Ability to keep the property clean and orderly.
Good interpersonal skills with polite and courteous demeanor toward staff, customers, clients, and visitors to the property.

Physical Requirements:

Prolonged periods standing.
Must be able to lift, bend, stoop, climb, reach, and lift up to 40 pounds at a time.

Benefits:

Employee discount
Paid time off

Schedule:

8 hour shift
Day shift
Holidays
Monday to Friday
Night shift
On call
Weekend availability

Education:

High school or equivalent (Preferred)

Click here to apply.

No phone calls.

Event Operations Crew

JOB TYPE: Part-time

PAY: $16.00 per hour

REPORTS TO: Events & Operations Manager

JOB OBJECTIVE: To provide set up and support services during daily activities and special events.

THE JOB:

We are looking for a professional to join our Events and Operations Team as a crew for daily event operations. No experience necessary, just a great attitude, good work ethic and hard worker. This position requires attention to details in a fast moving, live entertainment capacity. Must love team work and working outdoors, be able to lift 50lbs on a regular basis and be on their feet for long periods of time.

OPERATIONS SUPPORT:

Assist with set-up and break down of events and meeting rooms as needed.
Move, storage, inventory and maintain furniture and other supplies used in events and daily operations.
Assist clients and vendors with load in and load out.
Ensure the guests, vendors and clients are following the rules and guidelines of visit and events.
Perform small repairs as needed.
Ensure AV and lightning equipment is working and ready to be used before events.
Assist staff, volunteers, and visitors with any problems and/or emergencies.
Attend weekly department meeting.
Wear issued uniform and name badge every day.

REQUIRED SKILLS/ABILITIES:

No experience necessary
Able to lift up to 50 pounds.
Make small repairs.
AV/ Lighting installation / operation
Detail-oriented and thorough.
Ability to keep the property clean and orderly.
Good interpersonal skills with polite and courteous demeanor toward staff, customers, clients, and visitors to the property.
Must be able to work event days/nights, weekends and some holidays.
Must be able to work outdoors in a variety of weather conditions.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

Prolonged periods standing.
Must be able to lift, bend, stoop, climb, reach, and lift up to 50 pounds at a time.

PREFERRED SKILLS:

English speaker
Spanish speaker
Painting / carpentry

SCHEDULE:

8 hour shift
Day shift
Holidays
Monday to Friday
Night shift
On call
Weekend availability

Click here to apply.

No phone calls.