Formal Garden Curator

About the position

The Formal Garden Curator at The North Carolina Arboretum is responsible for leading the design and care of the formal gardens, ensuring they are visually stunning and ecologically responsible. This role involves nurturing the established collection, expanding specimens, and promoting public engagement through educational efforts. The curator will collaborate with various teams to implement seasonal landscape exhibits and manage donor interactions for landscape improvements.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design and care of the formal gardens.
• Create visually stunning and ecologically responsible garden spaces.
• Nurture the established collection and expand the specimens represented.
• Keep detailed records of existing and newly acquired specimens.
• Manage existing interpretation within the formal garden and expand interpretive signage.
• Lead educational efforts associated with the collection, including classes and workshops.
• Collaborate with the Communications & Marketing Department to promote interest in the collection.
• Act as the primary Horticulture contact for donor interaction and grant opportunities.
• Provide administrative and leadership support as a backup to the Director of Horticulture.

Requirements

• Extensive knowledge of indigenous and cultivated plant species.
• Experience in garden design and horticultural management.
• Ability to create balance and structure in garden spaces.
• Strong record-keeping and organizational skills.
• Experience in public speaking and educational program development.

Nice-to-haves

• Experience with seasonal landscape exhibits.
• Familiarity with grant writing and donor relations.
• Background in public engagement and community outreach.

Benefits

• Health insurance coverage.
• Paid holidays and vacation time.
• Professional development opportunities.