Horticulture Specialist – Natural Native Plant Areas

Job overview

The Horticulture Specialist – Natural Native Plant Areas role is primarily onsite in Omaha, NE, across Lauritzen Gardens’ grounds and facilities. Compensation is not specified. Lauritzen Gardens conducts conservation efforts across the Great Plains and promotes ecologically responsible horticulture. The specialist manages and maintains native and tallgrass areas, monitors plant communities and invasive species, and supports restoration and ecological stewardship. After completing required training and qualifications, the specialist may lead the prescribed burn team and assist with burn planning and follow-up.

What you'll do

• Manage natural, native, and tallgrass areas
• perform mowing, trimming, invasive plant removal, brush management, and native plant establishment
• monitor plant health, erosion, and invasive species
• document invasive species and treatments
• implement control practices under the Horticulture Manager’s direction
• support restoration projects
• maintain trails and access areas
• operate and maintain equipment safely
• apply approved treatments according to procedures and regulations
• participate in prescribed burn activities after required training and qualifications
• educate and assist team members in native plant management practices.

What we're looking for

Skills & competencies

horticulture specialist

natural native plant areas

omaha ne

lauritzen gardens

native plants

tallgrass management

ecological horticulture

invasive species control

land management

prescribed burns

outdoor work

rotating weekends

medical and dental insurance

401(k) match

Work arrangement

• Weekend coverage required

Benefits & perks

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• short- and long-term disability
• life insurance
• 401(k) with company match
• paid sick time
• paid holidays
• garden membership
• employee assistance program
• bereavement leave
• professional development.

Why this role

The role may lead the prescribed burn team after required training, certifications, and qualifications are met. The posting requires seven years of horticultural experience and an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in education, life science, or design.

About the employer

Lauritzen Gardens is hiring for this role. Industry: Zoos and Botanical Gardens. Sector: 71.