Horticulturist Needed at Morven Park

Position Summary

Morven Park, Loudoun County’s 1,000-acre backyard, is where our visitors know they can find their “happy place.” We are seeking a Horticulturist who will ensure that our gardens and green spaces are always healthy and beautiful. Come join our friendly and dedicated staff that consistently strives to offer memorable experiences to local residents as well as guests from around the world who seek a destination where they can:

Play. Learn. Discover. Morven Park

Located in Leesburg, Virginia, Morven Park is owned and operated by The Westmoreland Davis Memorial Foundation, a non-profit organization, with most of the property under a permanent conservation easement. Our Buildings & Grounds Team is foundational to our success, and consistently receives praise and compliments from our visitors. Occasional weekend and after-hours event support may be required.

Morven Park offers competitive wages based on experience, with benefits for full-time employees including:

 Fully paid employee insurance premiums (medical, dental, vision, and life/disability)

 Voluntary Supplemental Life Insurance

 Paid time off and flexible work schedules

 Observance of federal holidays

 Automatic enrollment in 401(k) plan with company match

 Qualifying employment for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program

Our ideal candidate will possess:

 At least 1 year of experience as a professional gardener or horticulturist, with 3-5 years’ experience in landscaping or plant care and maintenance.

 A bachelor’s degree in horticulture or a related field, or an associate degree and equivalent experience. (A high school diploma or equivalent is mandatory.)

 The ability to work independently as well as within a multi-disciplinary team, and function effectively in a rapidly changing environment with minimal supervision.

 Certification in pesticide and fertilizer application.

 A current/valid driver’s license and auto insurance.

 Basic computer skills and the ability to understand diagrams, maps, and work orders.

 Outstanding communication and interpersonal skills, and a superior work ethic.

Our ideal candidate will be able to:

 Perform routine duties, which include but are not limited to:

 Install and maintain seasonal plants.

 Mow, trim, and fertilize green spaces.

 Mulch, edge, and weed gardens.

 Prune and trim trees and bushes.

 Monitor and maintain the health of plants.

 Monitor and address damage caused by pests.

 Use and perform basic maintenance of gardening equipment (mowers, trimmers, leaf blowers, etc.)

 Keep gardens and green spaces clear of debris and litter.

 Participate in event preparation and be able to work weekends when required.

 Remove snow, ice, limbs/trees to keep site open and safe for staff and visitors.

 Provide support for emergency maintenance concerns, including after-hours.

 Perform other related duties and activities as required.

 Ensure adherence to health and safety regulations and quality standards.

 Eventually supervise the day-to-day tasks and activities of the Gardening Team (up to 5 members)

 Effectively communicate and interact with team members and visitors.

 Successfully pass a background check (required of all Park employees) and provide work references.

Physical Requirements

 Perform work in all types of weather, often for extended periods of time.

 Transfer machinery, equipment, and supplies in excess of 50 pounds.

 Safely perform work at/near heavily trafficked areas.

 Able to kneel, bend, squat, and traverse various types of terrain that may be rough, uneven, or slippery.

Please apply by emailing a cover letter and resume.