Employment

NORFOLK BOTANICAL GARDEN EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

The Norfolk Botanical Garden gladly accepts applications for any open job posting.
All open jobs are posted here. If you cannot find a job match at this time, please consider a volunteer position.

Position: Horticulturist I

Position type:Full-time employment, average of 40 hours per week. Non-exempt under Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA).

Description:The Horticulturist I position performs all aspects of display bed maintenance in the assigned area to set a standard of horticulture excellence under the direct supervision of a Horticulturist or a Curator. Ideal candidates for this position would be team players passionate in the field of Horticulture & available Monday-Friday 7:00am-3:30pm with occasional weekend availability to ensure the Garden is in perfect condition all year long.

Essential Functions: 

• Assist horticulturists in maintaining gardens and collections through weeding, watering, pruning, deadheading, mulching, edging, raking, fertilization and pesticide application.
• Perform the appropriate soil preparation and planting procedures.
• Works alongside other members of the Horticulture Dept. on team projects. The ability to work in a team environment is essential.
• Operate small engine equipment safely (golf cart, weed-eater, blower, edger, etc…).
• Clean and use hand tools and equipment responsibly.
• Assist their assigned Horticulturist in performing the basic tasks in their area when the Horticulturist is not present.
• At the discretion of their supervising Curator, assume greater responsibilities such as operating restricted use equipment, acquiring Virginia Registered Technician pesticide license, or other special assignments.
• Assists with Garden-wide special events and other duties as assigned.

Essential Physical Functions: 

• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs.
• Ability to drive a golf cart.
• Ability to work outside for 8 hours in heat, cold or light rain and can continuously walk, stand, bend, twist and/or stoop.
• Has the ability to push, pull and perform manual labor during working hours. Ability to operate heavy equipment.
• Ability to work on a ladder for extended periods.

Qualifications: 

• A valid driver’s license is required.
• Interest and the ability to learn and perform horticultural practices.
• Must be willing to work alongside horticulturists using fertilizers, insecticides, fungicides and herbicides with the label stated safety precautions.
• Associate’s Degree in Horticulture or related field and one-year practical experience preferred, but related experience is also considered and valued.

Reports to: Curator 

Benefits: 

• Health insurance including an HSA or copay option (NBG pays 70% of individual premium and 65% of dependent/family premium) 
• 403(b) retirement plan with discretionary 4% match 
• Company sponsored life-insurance coverage. 
• Group rates on voluntary benefits such as dental, supplemental medical expense insurance, FSA, DCA, vision, STD, LTD, accident and critical illness. 
• Paid vacation, sick leave and holidays. 
• Professional development opportunities. 
• Staff discounts on programming & giftshop. 
• NBG logo wear for work provided. 
• EAP services for all employees. 

Equal Employer Opportunity (EEO) statement: NBG is committed to the principles and ideals of equal employment opportunity. It is, and shall continue to be, the policy and practice throughout NBG to foster equal employment opportunity and non-discrimination for applicants, employees, and volunteers without regard to race, color, sex, religion, national origin, age, marital status, disability status, sexual orientation, gender identity, pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions including lactation, status as a veteran, or other protected status, if qualified to perform the essential functions of the job with or without reasonable accommodation.

Send resume and application to: hr@nbgs.org

Position: Horticulturist II

Position type: Full-time employment, average of 40 hours per week. Non-exempt under Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA). 

Description: The Horticulturist II position is responsible for performing all aspects of display bed maintenance in the assigned area to set a standard of horticultural excellence. The ideal candidate must have the ability to work in a team environment and must also obtain a VA Registered Pesticide Applicator’s license within 6 months of hiring. 

Essential Functions: 

• Care and maintain all aspects of assigned gardens (excluding turf and irrigation) at the highest level of horticultural technique under the direction of the Curator through weeding, watering, pruning, dead-heading, mulching, edging, raking, and fertilization, and any other techniques necessary. 
• Supervise assigned horticulturists and volunteers and work alongside other members of the Horticulture Department on team projects. 
• Complete accurate and timely accession records for all plants associated with the garden under their care and ensure that all plants are labeled appropriately. 
• Further the Garden’s mission through teaching classes, leading tours, writing articles, giving garden club talks, or through participating in regional outreach events. 
• • Safely operate heavy equipment and small engine equipment as needed, including dump truck, bobcat, fork lift, front-end loader, golf cart, weed-eater, blower, edger, etc. (training provided). Clean and use hand tools & equipment responsibly. 
• Perform the appropriate soil preparation and planting of annuals, perennials, shrubs and trees. 
• Develop and expand an in-depth knowledge of plants under their care, make plant selection suggestions, and assist the Curator in locating desirable additions to the botanical collection. 
• Utilize existing Excel spreadsheets to manage garden inventories and PowerPoint for presentations. 
• Have a basic skill level for 2-cycle or electric horticultural equipment (training provided) 
• Assist with special events & other duties as needed, including set up or take down for Dominion Energy Garden of Lights. 

Essential Physical Functions: 

• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs. 
• Ability to drive a golf cart. 
• Ability to work outside for 8 hours in heat, cold or light rain and can continuously walk, stand, bend, twist and/or stoop. 
• Has the ability to push, pull and perform manual labor during working hours. Ability to operate heavy equipment. 

• Ability to work on a ladder for extended periods. 

Qualifications: 

• Must be able to reliably commute to and from the Garden. 
• Must have a valid driver’s license. 
• Must obtain a VA Registered Pesticide Applicator’s license within 6 months of hiring. 
• Must have a basic working knowledge of botanical nomenclature. 
• Associate’s degree in Horticulture or a related field and 2 years hands-on experience or Bachelor’s Degree in Horticulture and one year of hands-on experience preferred. 
• Preferred candidates should have knowledge of and experience working with plants native to Coastal Virginia, as well as common exotics that thrive in the same climate. 
• VNLA certification a plus. 

Reports to: Curator 

Benefits: 

• Health insurance including an HSA or copay option (NBG pays 70% of individual premium and 65% of dependent/family premium) 
• 403(b) retirement plan with discretionary 4% match 
• Company sponsored life-insurance coverage. 
• Group rates on voluntary benefits such as dental, supplemental medical expense insurance, FSA, DCA, vision, STD, LTD, accident and critical illness. 
• Paid vacation, sick leave and holidays. 
• Professional development opportunities. 
• Staff discounts on programming & giftshop. 
• NBG logo wear for work provided. 
• EAP services for all employees. 

Equal Employer Opportunity (EEO) statement: NBG is committed to the principles and ideals of equal employment opportunity. It is, and shall continue to be, the policy and practice throughout NBG to foster equal employment opportunity and non-discrimination for applicants, employees, and volunteers without regard to race, color, sex, religion, national origin, age, marital status, disability status, sexual orientation, gender identity, pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions including lactation, status as a veteran, or other protected status, if qualified to perform the essential functions of the job with or without reasonable accommodation.

Send resume and application to: hr@nbgs.org

Position: Facilities Technician II

Position Type: Full-time employment, 40 hours per week. Non-exempt under Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA).

Description: The Facilities Technician II performs general building maintenance, minor equipment maintenance and repair, custodial work, and event setup. This position is responsible for supervising and assigning tasks to other Facilities Technicians. The ideal candidate would have prior maintenance experience and a strong team-oriented work ethic. The schedule for this position will require weekend availability.

Essential Functions:

• Access daily schedule, set work priorities and assign employees to tasks.
• Perform safety procedures to include, but not limited to, equipment utilization and supply inventory (training provided).
• Operate golf carts and conduct preventative maintenance, such as checking battery levels, tire pressure, gas levels, etc. Provide a tow as needed.
• Painting and prep work around office spaces and across the Garden.
• Operate heavy equipment such as the forklift, mini-loader, Bobcat, front-end loader, dump truck, large lift, etc.
• Change tires on any NBG equipment, including: golf carts, work vehicles/vans, trams, and heavy equipment, etc.
• Custodial duties to include cleaning restrooms, operating floor cleaning equipment, using a power washer, changing light bulbs, launder and dry items.
• Qualify on cement safe, metal chop saw and spot welding. (training provided).
• Event and classroom set ups.
• Perform NBG safety procedures including a tag out, locating and operating firefighting equipment, the location of safety barriers, etc. (training provided).
• Assists with Garden-wide special events and other duties as assigned.

Essential Physical Functions:

• Must have the ability to lift up to 50 lbs.
• Must have the ability to work outside for 8 hours in heat, cold or light rain and can continuously walk, stand, bend, twist and/or stoop.
• Must have the ability to push, pull and perform manual labor during working hours.
• Must have the ability to work on ladders for extended periods.
• Must have the ability to operate heavy equipment and have the ability to drive a golf cart.

Requirements:

• Schedule subject to Garden needs. Day shift, weekends required.
• 18 years of age or older with valid driver’s license & proof of car insurance required.
• Minimum of 1-2 years of experience in Maintenance or related field required.
• Must be able to work independently, as well as part of a team, be self-motivated, and customer service oriented.

Education and Experience:

• High school diploma or equivalent preferred.
• Minimum of 1-2 years of experience in Maintenance or related field.
• Experience with electrical, plumbing, or carpentry is a plus.

Benefits:

• Health insurance including an HSA or copay option (NBG pays 70% of individual premium and 65% of dependent/family premium)
• 403(b) retirement plan with discretionary 4% match
• Company sponsored life-insurance coverage.
• Group rates on voluntary benefits such as dental, supplemental medical expense insurance, FSA, DCA, vision, STD, LTD, accident and critical illness.
• Paid vacation, sick leave and holidays.
• Professional development opportunities.
• Staff discounts on programming & gift shop.
• NBG logo wear for work provided.
• EAP services for all employees.

Equal Employer Opportunity (EEO) statement: NBG is committed to the principles and ideals of equal employment opportunity. It is, and shall continue to be, the policy and practice throughout NBG to foster equal employment opportunity and non-discrimination for applicants, employees, and volunteers without regard to race, color, sex, religion, national origin, age, marital status, disability status, sexual orientation, gender identity, pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions including lactation, status as a veteran, or other protected status, if qualified to perform the essential functions of the job with or without reasonable accommodation.

Send resume and application to: hr@nbgs.org

Position: Housekeeping Technician

Position Type: Entry level. Full-time employment, 40 hours per week. Non-exempt under Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA)

Description: The Housekeeping Technician performs primarily custodial work, event set-ups, and general building maintenance. This position takes place during the evening shift generally from 3:00pm-11:30pm, however shifts may be scheduled later due to special events.

Essential Functions:

• Custodial duties to include, but not limited to cleaning restrooms, operating floor cleaning equipment, using a power washer, changing light bulbs, laundry, etc.
• Assist with event and classroom set-ups.
• Be knowledgeable of and able to complete NBG safety procedures (training provided).
• Assists with Garden-wide special events and other duties as assigned.

Essential Physical Functions:

• Must have the ability to lift up to 50 lbs.
• Must have the ability to work outside for 8 hours in heat, cold or light rain and can continuously walk, stand, bend, twist and/or stoop.
• Must have the ability to push, pull, reach and perform manual labor during working hours.
• Must have the ability to work on ladders for extended periods.
• Must have the ability to drive a golf cart.

Requirements:

• Night and weekend availability required.
• 18 years of age or older.
• Must be able to work independently as well as part of a team, be self-motivated, and customer service oriented.

Education and Experience:

• High school diploma or equivalent preferred.
• Experience with floor maintenance such as stripping and waxing floors is highly preferred.

Benefits:

• Health insurance including an HSA or copay option (NBG pays 70% of individual premium and 65% of dependent/family premium)
• 403(b) retirement plan with discretionary 4% match
• Company sponsored life-insurance coverage.
• Group rates on voluntary benefits such as dental, supplemental medical expense insurance, FSA, DCA, vision, STD, LTD, accident and critical illness.
• Paid vacation, sick leave and holidays.
• Professional development opportunities.
• Staff discounts on programming, gift shop & café.
• NBG logo wear for work provided.
• EAP services for all employees.

Reports to: Shift Supervisor

Equal Employer Opportunity (EEO) statement: NBG is committed to the principles and ideals of equal employment opportunity. It is, and shall continue to be, the policy and practice throughout NBG to foster equal employment opportunity and non-discrimination for applicants, employees, and volunteers without regard to race, color, sex, religion, national origin, age, marital status, disability status, sexual orientation, gender identity, pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions including lactation, status as a veteran, or other protected status, if qualified to perform the essential functions of the job with or without reasonable accommodation.

Send resume and application to: hr@nbgs.org

Position: Gift Shop Sales Associate

Position Type: Part-time employment, average of 16-32 hours a week. Non-exempt under Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA).

Description: The Gift Shop Sales Associate is responsible for promoting sales generation of the Norfolk Botanical Garden’s Gift Shop and for providing unparalleled guest service through every customer interaction. Shifts are 4-8 hours, fluctuating between 9:00am-7:00pm during the summer months and 9:00am-9:00pm in the Autumn & Winter seasons for our Garden of Lights Holiday Event. This position requires flexible availability; weekend availability is required.

Essential Functions: 

• Generate sales via the POS system Altru & provide exceptional customer service.
• Demonstrate product knowledge and cash handling procedures.
• Maintain merchandising standards, monitor store appearance & facility upkeep, both inside and outside of the Gift Shop. • Assist with physical inventory including, but not limited to, assuring incoming shipments against product invoices and checking the items in inventory for damages or discrepancies.
• Update product inventory as products are received and added to the inventory.
• Marking and labeling the products according to the store’s specifications, filling out any paperwork necessary.
• Reconcile daily sales and open & close store.
• Other duties as assigned.

Essential Physical Functions: 

• Standing, walking, and/or moving through store for extended periods of time.
• Receiving and stocking inventory requires bending, lifting up to 35 pounds, kneeling, reaching overhead, moving boxes and store inventory for off-site sales.
• Must be able to use a broom, dust mop and vacuum cleaner.
• Ability to participate in routine conversation in person or via telephone.
• Responsible for upkeep of merchandising and visual layout of store.
• Computer literacy and ability to use a computer for POS transactions.
• Some outdoor labor required for garden patio, such as general straightening and cleaning.

Qualifications:

• High school diploma preferred.
• Experience in a retail setting is a plus.
• Must be able to reliably commute to and from the Garden.
• Must have written and verbal communications skills with the ability to speak effectively with both individuals and groups.
• Must have the availability to work weekends.

Reports to: Gift Shop Coordinator & Gift Shop Manager

Benefits: 

• Health insurance including an HSA or copay option (NBG pays 70% of individual premium and 65% of dependent/family premium)
• 403(b) retirement plan with discretionary 4% match
• Company sponsored life-insurance coverage.
• Group rates on voluntary benefits such as dental, supplemental medical expense insurance, vision, STD, accident.
• Paid vacation, sick leave and holidays.
• Professional development opportunities.
• Staff discounts on programming & giftshop.
• EAP services for all employees.

Equal Employer Opportunity (EEO) statement: NBG is committed to the principles and ideals of equal employment opportunity. It is, and shall continue to be, the policy and practice throughout NBG to foster equal employment opportunity and non-discrimination for applicants, employees, and volunteers without regard to race, color, sex, religion, national origin, age, marital status, disability status, gender identity, sexual orientation, pregnancy, childbirth or related medical condition including lactation, status as a veteran or other protected status, if qualified to perform the essential functions of the job with or without reasonable accommodation.

Send resume and application to: hr@nbgs.org

Position: Garden Guide

Position Type: Seasonal employment. Non-Exempt under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA). 

Description: The Garden Guide is responsible for safely operating trams and boats, conducting tours and providing frontline coverage of the Front Desk and Tollbooth. Shifts are 5-8 hours, fluctuating between 7:30AM-9:30 PM up to 4 days a week. This position requires flexible availability; weekend work is required. Ideal candidates would enjoy working with people, working outside in a beautiful Garden setting as well as indoors, & have previous cash handling experience. 

Essential Functions: 

• Safely operate trams and boats to conduct educational tours of the Garden. 
• Create an outstanding guest experience by highlighting membership benefits & suggesting how guests can structure their visit to the Garden. 
• Work with all other NBG departments to ensure visitors have a positive and memorable experience at the Garden. 
• Operate cash register; responsible for initial money given, and any money taken in during shift. 
• Utilize Altru database program to view calendar schedule and be prepared to relay pertinent information to class participants, members, staff and the general public. 
• Provide excellent customer service at all times, especially when greeting & assisting guests. 
• Assist with special events as needed including Garden festivals & the annual Garden of Lights. 
• Additional duties as required. 

Essential Physical Functions: 

• Must have the ability to work outside for 8 hours in heat, cold or light rain and can continuously walk, stand, bend, twist and/or stoop. 
• Must have the ability to push and pull objects during the shift. 
• Must have the ability to sit for extended periods of time at a desk inside an office, using a computer with a keyboard, answering the phone and communicating via a radio. 
• Must have the position requires the ability to lift and move materials up to 40 pounds. 
• Must be able to climb in and out of, and safely operate the tram, boat, and golf carts. 

Requirements: 

• Valid driver’s license required and must be at least 18 years old. 
• A solid basic understanding of computers is required. 

Education and Experience: 

• High school diploma or equivalent is preferred. 
• Should enjoy working with people, have excellent customer service skills, and be comfortable speaking to large groups. 

• Previous customer service and cash handling experience is highly preferred. 

Reports to: Visitor Services Supervisors 

Benefits: 

• Staff discounts on programming and gift shop. 
• NBG logo wear for work provided. 
• EAP services for all employees. 

Equal Employer Opportunity (EEO) statement: NBG is committed to the principles and ideals of equal employment opportunity. It is, and shall continue to be, the policy and practice throughout NBG to foster equal employment opportunity and non-discrimination for applicants, employees, and volunteers without regard to race, color, sex, religion, national origin, age, marital status, disability status, gender identity, sexual orientation, pregnancy, childbirth or related medical condition including lactation, status as a veteran or other protected status, if qualified to perform the essential functions of the job with or without reasonable accommodation.

Send resume and application to: hr@nbgs.org

Position: Parking Crew (Spring)

Position Type: Seasonal employment from March 1st, 2025 – May 11th, 2025. The shift requires Saturdays and Sundays 8:30am-5:30pm; occasional weekdays may be needed. Minimum of 16 hours a week with potential to increase hours if available. Non-Exempt under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA).

Description: The Norfolk Botanical Garden is seeking dedicated team members to join our Spring Parking Crew! This is a seasonal position that will help with the high traffic NBG experiences in the beautiful Spring season. Shifts for this position will be 8:30am-5:30pm on Saturdays & Sundays, with the possibility of more hours on the weekdays as available. This position will require standing outdoors for the entire shift and driving a golf cart to effectively direct vehicles into open parking spaces.

Essential Functions: 

• Carefully direct vehicles to open parking spaces.
• Walk and/or drive a golfcart around the parking lots to check the current number of open spaces and communicate via radio to the rest of the Parking Crew.
• Care for and have the ability to use all issued equipment such as: Handheld radios, safety belts/vests, light wands, etc.
• Able to perform other duties as assigned.

Essential Physical Functions: 

• Must have the ability to stand for the entirety of the shift outdoors.
• Must have the ability to safely operate a golf cart (training provided).
• Must have the ability to work outside for 8 hours in heat, cold or light rain and can continuously walk, stand, bend, twist and/or stoop.
• Must have the ability to listen & communicate over the radio and in-person.
• Must have the ability to work outdoors in all adverse weather conditions and provide your own weather gear.
• Must be able to understand and follow established parking plans and procedures to ensure the safety of everyone.

Qualifications:

• Dayshift, weekend availability required.

Benefits:

• Staff discounts on programming and NBG gift shop.
• NBG logo wear for work provided.
• EAP services for all employees.

Reports to: Parking Crew Supervisor and Visitor Services Supervisors

Equal Employer Opportunity (EEO) statement: NBG is committed to the principles and ideals of equal employment opportunity. It is, and shall continue to be, the policy and practice throughout NBG to foster equal employment opportunity and non-discrimination for applicants, employees, and volunteers without regard to race, color, sex, religion, national origin, age, marital status, disability status, sexual orientation, gender identity, pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions including lactation, status as a veteran, or other protected status, if qualified to perform the essential functions of the job with or without reasonable accommodation.

Send resume and application to: hr@nbgs.org