About the Role
The Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens (MCBG) is seeking a highly organized horticulturist to oversee our retail and production nursery. MCBG is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization that operates a nationally recognized public garden known for its beauty, significant plant collections, coastal bluffs, and beloved events. The Gardens has grown into a leading attraction on the Mendocino Coast through the collaborative effort of our passionate and dedicated staff, volunteers, and board. Our small staff relies heavily on teamwork to ensure that the Gardens, our events, and our programs continue to excite, inspire, and educate the public for years to come. MCBG is an equal opportunity employer, and we are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees and guests.
The Nursery Manager position is responsible for the successful planning and execution of all plant propagation and sales for the retail nursery. This role requires exceptional organizational skills, advanced knowledge of plant propagation, pest control, and the tools of the trade, as well as the ability to delegate tasks, problem-solve, and anticipate needs. The Nursery generates approximately $200,000 gross profit before operating expenses. This position is responsible for producing 40% of retail plants in-house and ordering the remaining 60% from regional distributors. The retail nursery is an important entity of the Gardens, where we can reach the public with information and materials that help us carry out our mission beyond our property's borders.
Responsibilities
Propagation
Schedule, conduct, and direct the propagation (via seeds, divisions, and cuttings) of approximately $70,000 worth of plants annually
Maintain and oversee the maintenance of nursery plants including watering, fertilizing, pruning, transplanting, and weeding
Coordinate with Garden Manager to make all propagation decisions in order to represent the Gardens’ plant collections and align with the Gardens’ mission statement
Maintain accurate propagation records, update production calendar, and create propagation protocols
Utilize Integrated Pest Management to control pests
Comply with all Mendocino County Agriculture reporting requirements
Maintain appropriate conditions in propagation house, greenhouses, and mist benches
Collect, purchase, and maintain all necessary seed stock
Retail Sales
Greet and assist visitors with plant selection, plant identification, pest/disease diagnosis, cultural information, and other questions
Respond to inquiries received via phone, email, and online platforms
Hold two major plant sale events each year
Create and oversee the creation of aesthetically pleasing displays including signage
Maintain a neat and thoughtfully organized retail nursery
Assist customers with plant purchases
Perform annual physical inventory of nursery stock in coordination with the Store and auditor
Establish and maintain relationships with vendors
Receive orders using the POS system and submit invoices for payment
Submit monthly reports to the the Finance Department
Track expenses and stay within budget
Management and Oversight
Hire, schedule, train, and evaluate two part-time nursery staff
Train and orient volunteers, providing guidance, ongoing support, and showing appreciation for their contributions
Maintain necessary levels of supplies: horticultural, propagation, sales and office supplies
Communicate with Department of Agriculture as needed
Maintain the nursery areas in a safe and tidy manner
Work in coordination with Maintenance Manager for facilities maintenance
Application Instructions
Please submit a cover letter and resume to the MCBG Director of Operations, Aspen Logan, at operations@gardenbythesea.org.