Plant Collection Manager Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the realm of horticulture, the focus on Plant Collection Managers has never been more significant.

As the appreciation for plant diversity and preservation grows, so does the need for knowledgeable individuals who can cultivate, maintain, and protect our botanical collections.

But let’s dig deeper: What’s truly expected from a Plant Collection Manager?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core responsibilities of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the world of plant collection management,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable Plant Collection Manager job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right in.

Plant Collection Manager Duties and Responsibilities

Plant Collection Managers oversee and manage the organization, preservation, and expansion of a collection of live plants.

Their role involves a combination of fieldwork, research, conservation, and administrative duties.

Their key duties and responsibilities include:

• Planning and implementing strategies for the acquisition, growth, and preservation of plant collections
• Maintaining detailed records of plant specimens, including their origin, growth, health, and maintenance needs
• Coordinating and conducting fieldwork to collect new plant specimens
• Working with botanists, horticulturists, and other professionals to identify and classify plants
• Managing plant conservation efforts, including the propagation of rare or endangered species
• Supervising the preparation and maintenance of plant display areas
• Designing, organizing, and conducting educational programs and tours for the public, students, and other stakeholders
• Ensuring compliance with local and international regulations regarding the collection, transportation, and preservation of plant specimens
• Managing budgets, resources, and staff involved in plant collection activities
• Maintaining up-to-date knowledge of advances in plant sciences and collection management practices

 

Plant Collection Manager Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are looking for a knowledgeable and dedicated Plant Collection Manager to oversee the collection, cultivation, and maintenance of our diverse plant collection.

The ideal candidate will have a strong background in botany, horticulture, or a related field, and experience with cataloging and documenting plant specimens.

The Plant Collection Manager will be responsible for managing and developing the plant collection, ensuring its conservation, and using it to support research and public education activities.

 

Responsibilities

• Manage the acquisition, cataloging, and maintenance of a diverse plant collection.
• Develop and implement plant collection policies and procedures.
• Work with researchers and educators to facilitate use of the collection for research and educational purposes.
• Maintain accurate and detailed records of the collection, including plant health, origin, and other relevant data.
• Collaborate with staff, volunteers, and interns to ensure the maintenance of the collection.
• Develop and manage a propagation program for rare and endangered plant species.
• Conduct tours and educational programs for the public.
• Oversee pest and disease management strategies for the collection.
• Coordinate with other botanical gardens and institutions for plant exchanges and collaborative research.

 

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Botany, Horticulture, or related field.
• Experience in managing plant collections in a professional setting.
• Knowledge of plant taxonomy, cultivation, and conservation techniques.
• Experience with plant database management and record keeping.
• Strong organizational and management skills.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills.
• Ability to work in various weather conditions and perform physical tasks related to garden maintenance.

 

Benefits

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

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Plant Collection Manager
• Work Environment: Outdoor and office setting. Some weekend work may be required.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Director of Horticulture.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $45,000 minimum to $65,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• 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 a Plant Collection Manager Do?

Plant Collection Managers are typically employed by botanical gardens, arboretums, or research institutions.

They may also work as self-employed consultants or in private collections.

Their primary responsibility is to manage, develop and care for the plant collection.

This involves sourcing and acquiring new specimens, recording their origins and maintaining an up-to-date database of the collection.

They work closely with horticulturists, botanists, and other plant specialists to ensure the health and longevity of the plants.

They are often responsible for identifying and mitigating any diseases or pests that may affect the collection.

Plant Collection Managers also coordinate with researchers and educators, facilitating access to the collection for study or educational purposes.

They may also be involved in planning and organizing exhibitions or plant displays, and in some roles, they might be responsible for public outreach and educational activities.

Their job also involves staying updated on current plant preservation methodologies and implementing them as necessary.

They also participate in conservation efforts and may collaborate with other institutions for research and preservation projects.

 

Plant Collection Manager Qualifications and Skills

A competent Plant Collection Manager should possess skills and qualifications that are relevant to the job description, including:

• Thorough knowledge about various plant species, their growth patterns, and ideal conditions for optimal growth
• Strong organizational skills to manage the plant collection, oversee inventory, and maintain records
• Excellent communication skills to interact with various stakeholders such as botanical garden staff, researchers, and visitors
• Good physical health to handle the physical demands of the job, including lifting, bending, and being on their feet for long periods
• Problem-solving skills to identify and address issues related to plant health, pest management, and environmental conditions
• Leadership abilities to manage the team responsible for the maintenance and growth of the collection
• Experience with computer software for maintaining digital records of plant collections and performing data analysis
• Understanding of environmental and conservation laws and regulations related to plant collection
• Ability to work in different weather conditions as the job might require outdoor work in all seasons

 

Plant Collection Manager Experience Requirements

Candidates for the role of a Plant Collection Manager should ideally possess a degree in botany, horticulture, plant science, or a related field.

While academic qualifications provide a solid foundation, practical experience is also crucial in this role.

Entry-level candidates could have 1 to 2 years of experience, often gained through an internship or part-time role in botanical gardens, arboretums, nurseries, or other plant-related institutions.

These professionals may work as assistants to experienced gardeners or horticulturists, gaining hands-on experience in plant care, collection, and documentation.

Candidates with more than 3 years of experience usually have developed skills in identifying and classifying different types of plants, managing plant collections, and dealing with plant diseases and pests.

They might have worked in roles such as a Botanist, Horticulturist, or Nursery Manager.

Those with more than 5 years of experience are generally considered highly experienced in the field.

They might have held leadership roles in the past, managing teams of gardeners or running large-scale plant collection projects.

Their experience may also extend to conservation efforts, propagation of rare or endangered plants, and the development of public education programs about plant biodiversity.

In addition to these, a deep passion for plants, good organizational skills, and an ability to work in different weather conditions are some of the essential qualities expected in a Plant Collection Manager.

 

Plant Collection Manager Education and Training Requirements

A Plant Collection Manager typically has a bachelor’s degree in botany, horticulture, plant science, or a related field.

They should possess a comprehensive understanding of plant biology, taxonomy, and horticultural techniques.

Practical experience in managing plant collections, either through internships, work experience, or volunteer work, is highly beneficial.

Some positions may require a master’s degree in a related field or extensive experience in botanical garden management.

Additionally, they should have a good understanding of database management and relevant software applications used in the industry.

Certifications related to plant health, pest management, or other specialized areas of horticulture may also be beneficial.

Many Plant Collection Managers also take part in continuing education programs, workshops, or conferences to keep up-to-date with the latest developments in their field.

 

Plant Collection Manager Salary Expectations

A Plant Collection Manager earns an average salary of $60,000 (USD) per year.

The exact income can vary depending on factors like the amount of experience, level of education, geographical location, and the hiring institution.

 

Plant Collection Manager Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Plant Collection Manager need?

Plant Collection Managers should possess strong knowledge in botany and horticulture.

They should have excellent organizational skills for managing a diverse range of plant collections, as well as good communication and interpersonal skills for liaising with botanists, researchers, and other staff members.

Computer skills are also beneficial for managing databases and records of the plant collection.

 

Do Plant Collection Managers need a degree?

While not always necessary, a degree in botany, horticulture, or a related field is often preferred.

Some positions may require advanced degrees or significant experience in managing plant collections.

Additionally, Plant Collection Managers may need specific certifications or licenses depending on the types of plants they’re handling.

 

What should you look for in a Plant Collection Manager resume?

A Plant Collection Manager’s resume should highlight their educational background in botany or a related field, as well as any experience in managing plant collections.

Look for skills such as plant identification, taxonomy, record keeping, and inventory management.

Experience with specific types of plants, particularly if they align with your collection, can also be a major advantage.

 

What qualities make a good Plant Collection Manager?

A good Plant Collection Manager has a passion for plants and a thorough understanding of plant taxonomy and biology.

They are detail-oriented, ensuring that every plant in the collection is well-cared for and properly documented.

Good Plant Collection Managers also possess strong leadership skills, as they often oversee teams of horticulturists, volunteers, or other staff members.

 

What are the daily duties of a Plant Collection Manager?

A Plant Collection Manager typically spends their day overseeing the care and maintenance of the plant collection, which can involve everything from watering and fertilizing to pest control.

They also manage the documentation and inventory of the collection, ensuring that all records are up-to-date and accurate.

Additionally, they may work with researchers, provide educational outreach, and assist with the acquisition of new plants for the collection.

 

Conclusion

So there you have it.

Today, we unearthed the true essence of what it means to be a plant collection manager.

And guess what?

It’s not just about watering and pruning.

It’s about cultivating botanical diversity, one plant at a time.

With our ready-made plant collection manager job description template and real-world examples, you’re all geared up to make a leap.

But why halt your journey here?

Dig deeper with our job description generator. It’s your next stop to creating meticulously detailed listings or sharpening your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Each plant is a piece of the global ecosystem.

Let’s nurture that world. Together.