P-9766

DIRECTOR OF HORTICULTURE - Cantigny Park, IL

The Director of Horticulture shall serve as the chief horticulturist and will perform a critical role throughout the park, planning and implementing horticultural goals and objectives and directly supervising permanent and seasonal staff members, all in a fast-paced environment. Reports directly to the Executive Director.

Responsibilities include: Develop and maintain a comprehensive plant health care program for the park’s varied landscapes and materials [urban tree canopy, specimen trees, understory material (formal, informal, and naturalized/ecological plantings), perennials, annuals, bulbs, groundcovers, turf, etc.]. Design and maintain an integrated plant/pest management (IPM) program to scout for pests and/or diseases, and plan and implement solutions as necessary. Forecast, develop and implement annual goals in accordance with budgets and Foundation policies. Create, implement and maintain standard operating procedures that will ensure horticultural assets are maintained at the highest standards. Ensure that staff members are properly trained to operate equipment and perform potentially dangerous tasks safely and for complying with requirements for use of proper personal protective equipment (PPE). Create and manage bid packages for all outsourced work in consultation with the Executive Director in line with Foundation policies and guidelines. Oversee and manage all outsourced horticultural contracts according to Foundation requirements. Maintain an effective inventory system. Instill in staff a respect and responsibility for tools, vehicles, safety equipment, and other Foundation property. Create, implement, maintain and coordinate a horticultural volunteer program in consultation with the Executive Director.

The Director is expected to maintain a positive proactive work ethic and exhibit professionalism at all times and to ensure staff does the same.

Requirements: Sucessful candidate must: have a four-year degree from an accredited institution with a focus in Horticulture, Plant Science, Turf Management, Landscape Architecture, Natural Resources Management, Forestry, other related field; have 8–10 years experience of which at least 5 years should be as a supervisor dealing with personnel, resource and contract management; be able to safely operate tools, vehicles, and specialized equipment; be proficient in MS Word and Excel and Power Point; and have a strong working knowledge of turf grass management, soil composition, nutrient analysis, irrigation and maintenance processes/cycles.

To apply: Submit resume, cover letter, and salary requirements to Human Resources at: MFResumes@McCormickFoundation.Org. Postal Mail: Cantigny Park, 1S151 Winfield Rd.,Wheaton, IL 60189. Attn: Human Resources Department.

Located in Wheaton, IL, Cantigny Park has more than 160,000 annuals, perennials, ground covers and flowering shrubs and trees. Explore Cantigny at www.cantigny.org.

Posted on: 06/10/2010
Closing date: Until filled