Arboretum Staff Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the era of urban greening and biodiversity conservation, the role of Arboretum Staff has never been more vital.

As the world pivots towards a more sustainable future, the demand for proficient professionals who can nurture, protect, and promote our arboreal biodiversity is growing.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from an Arboretum Staff member?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the depth of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply interested in the fascinating world of arboreal care,

You’ve arrived at the right destination.

Today, we present a customizable Arboretum Staff job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s embark on this exploration.

Arboretum Staff Duties and Responsibilities

Arboretum Staff are responsible for the maintenance, growth and overall health of an arboretum – a collection of trees and other plants.

They may also be involved in educational and community outreach activities.

Their main duties and responsibilities include:

• Planting, watering, fertilizing, and pruning trees and other plant life within the arboretum
• Monitoring plant health, diagnosing and treating diseases and pests
• Maintaining cleanliness and appearance of the arboretum
• Conducting tours and educational programs for visitors
• Planning and implementing conservation and sustainability measures
• Collaborating with scientists and researchers for plant studies
• Managing plant records and updating inventory
• Assisting in the planning and execution of events and exhibitions within the arboretum
• Performing administrative duties such as answering queries, interacting with donors and updating the arboretum’s website

 

Arboretum Staff Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking dedicated and passionate Arboretum Staff to assist with the daily operations, maintenance and development of our arboretum.

Arboretum Staff responsibilities include maintaining plants, providing guest services, conducting tours, and assisting with educational programs.

Our ideal candidates are enthusiastic about nature, have a strong knowledge of horticulture, and are dedicated to the preservation of the arboretum.

Ultimately, the role of the Arboretum Staff is to ensure the proper care and maintenance of the arboretum while providing a welcoming and educational environment for visitors.

 

Responsibilities

• Maintain the health and appearance of trees, plants, and flowers
• Conduct informative tours of the arboretum
• Assist with the planning and execution of educational programs
• Provide exceptional customer service to visitors
• Assist with the cultivation and planting of new flora
• Monitor and report any issues with plant health or pests
• Ensure cleanliness and safety of the arboretum
• Assist with research and conservation efforts
• Collaborate with the arboretum team to implement new initiatives

 

Qualifications

• Previous experience working in a garden, park, arboretum, or similar environment
• Knowledge of horticulture, botany, or a related field
• Ability to identify a variety of plants and trees
• Strong customer service and interpersonal skills
• Ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions
• Strong physical fitness and ability to perform labor-intensive tasks
• Passion for nature and conservation
• High school diploma or equivalent. A degree in a relevant field is a plus

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Arboretum Staff
• Work Environment: Outdoor setting, requiring physical labor and working in various weather conditions.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Arboretum Manager or Director.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $27,000 minimum to $35,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does an Arboretum Staff Do?

Arboretum Staff members typically work for botanical gardens or universities specializing in the cultivation and care of trees and woody plants, often in a park-like setting.

They perform a wide variety of tasks including planting, watering, pruning, fertilizing, and maintaining trees and plants.

They are responsible for the overall health and growth of the arboretum’s collection, which can involve monitoring for pests and diseases, and applying appropriate treatments when necessary.

Arboretum Staff are also involved in cataloging and documenting the species in the arboretum.

They take part in research activities, contribute to scientific studies, and assist in the collection and preservation of plant specimens.

They often interact with visitors, providing information and educational programs about the arboretum’s collections.

This can involve leading tours, hosting workshops, and developing educational materials.

Arboretum Staff also maintain the aesthetic appeal of the arboretum.

This includes tasks such as litter collection, repairing paths and benches, and ensuring safety measures are in place for the public.

In many arboretums, staff members work closely with volunteers, providing training and supervision.

They may also collaborate with other professionals in the field, such as arborists, horticulturists, and researchers.

 

Arboretum Staff Qualifications and Skills

An effective arboretum staff member should have the skills and qualifications that match with the job role, such as:

• Horticultural knowledge to understand plant species, their needs and their life cycles.
• Physical abilities to carry out tasks such as pruning, planting, and other maintenance activities.
• Interpersonal skills to interact with visitors and provide them with valuable information about the arboretum and its species.
• Problem-solving skills to address potential issues that may arise within the arboretum, such as pest infestations or plant diseases.
• Communication skills to effectively convey information about the arboretum to visitors, fellow staff, and volunteers.
• Customer service skills to ensure a pleasant and enjoyable experience for all visitors.
• Environmental conservation knowledge to promote and maintain sustainable practices within the arboretum.
• Organizational skills to manage the arboretum’s inventory of plants, equipment, and other resources.

 

Arboretum Staff Experience Requirements

Entry-level positions at an arboretum may require a minimum of 1 to 2 years of experience, which can be acquired through volunteer work or part-time roles in parks, botanical gardens, or similar settings.

A foundation in plant biology, horticulture, forestry, or a related field can also be beneficial.

Candidates with 3 or more years of experience may have worked in roles such as Horticulturist, Arborist, Park Ranger, or similar roles that involve plant care and maintenance, environmental education, and visitor services.

They are expected to have developed their knowledge of plant species, ecosystems, and conservation efforts.

Those with 5 or more years of experience may be prepared to take on managerial roles within the arboretum.

Such candidates will likely have a track record of supervising teams, organizing educational programs or events, managing budgets, and coordinating with other departments or external organizations.

Advanced knowledge in botany, ecology, or a similar field, as well as familiarity with grant writing or fundraising, may be required for these senior roles.

 

Arboretum Staff Education and Training Requirements

Arboretum Staff generally have a bachelor’s degree in botany, horticulture, plant science, environmental science, or a related field.

They need a strong background in plant identification, plant propagation, and horticultural maintenance techniques.

Arboretum Staff should also have knowledge and training in public garden management and the operation of horticultural equipment.

Some positions may require arboretum staff to have a master’s degree in horticulture, plant biology, or another related field, particularly if the role involves scientific research or high-level management.

Staff may also need specific certifications, such as a Certified Arborist credential, depending on their roles within the arboretum.

In addition to formal education, practical experience in gardening, landscaping, or working in a nursery or botanical garden can be beneficial.

Volunteering or internships at arboretums or similar institutions can also provide valuable experience and skills.

Arboretum staff should also be willing to continue their education, as new techniques and information about plant care and conservation are continually emerging.

This can be achieved through professional development courses, workshops, and seminars.

 

Arboretum Staff Salary Expectations

The average salary for Arboretum Staff is approximately $33,000 (USD) per year.

However, the actual earnings can fluctuate depending on factors such as experience, specific role within the arboretum, geographical location, and the financial health of the employing institution.

 

Arboretum Staff Job Description FAQs

What skills are necessary for Arboretum Staff?

Arboretum Staff should have a solid understanding of horticulture principles, plant identification, and ecology.

They should also possess physical stamina for outdoor work and heavy lifting, as well as good communication skills for interacting with the public.

Basic maintenance and handyman skills are often necessary for upkeep of the arboretum grounds and facilities.

 

Do Arboretum Staff need a degree?

While it is not always required, many arboretums prefer staff with a degree in fields such as horticulture, botany, forestry, or environmental science.

Having a degree in one of these fields indicates a strong foundational knowledge of plants and their care.

 

What should you look for in an Arboretum Staff resume?

A resume for an Arboretum Staff position should demonstrate experience in horticulture, plant care, or environmental education.

It should also highlight any physical labor or outdoor work experience.

Experience with equipment such as lawn mowers, chainsaws, and other landscaping tools can be a significant plus.

 

What qualities make a good Arboretum Staff member?

Good Arboretum Staff members are passionate about plants and the outdoors.

They should be physically fit, as the job involves a lot of outdoor work in different weather conditions.

They should also be detail-oriented, able to identify different plant species and detect signs of disease or pests.

Good communication skills are important for interacting with the public and providing educational information.

 

What are the daily duties of Arboretum Staff?

The daily duties of Arboretum Staff can vary but often include plant care such as watering, pruning, and pest control, maintaining the cleanliness of the grounds, giving guided tours, and providing educational information to visitors.

They may also be involved in plant record keeping and propagation, and sometimes in organizing and running events.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve dug into the roots of what it truly means to be a part of an arboretum staff.

Surprised?

It’s not just about planting trees.

It’s about nurturing our natural environment, one tree at a time.

With our handy arboretum staff job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to branch out.

But don’t just leaf it there.

Explore further with our job description generator. It’s your next step to creating detailed job listings or refining your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Each tree you plant is a part of a larger forest.

Let’s grow that future. Together.

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