Organic Garden Specialist

We are looking for an experienced, full time, Organic Garden Specialist to help continue and enhance the organic vegetable, fruit and herb gardens for a private property in the Orlando area that has been certified as a Natural Wildlife Habitat. The ideal candidate would possess knowledge and passion for organic gardening with a specific understanding of the uniqueness of gardening in Florida.

The candidate would help cultivate and oversee the well-established garden which is also home to 17 bee hives with a healthy honey production. Insight into greenhouse operation and management would also be beneficial. The property contains specialty floral and shade gardens, so a knowledge of ornamentals is also beneficial. The successful candidate would be able to work alongside, help coach and direct the garden and landscape team as needed. The Organic Garden Specialist will serve is a vital member of a comprehensive team that work together for the overall goal of sustaining the natural habitat. The property contains an extensive wild bird population, including eagles and turkeys and is also home to horses, alpacas, goats, swans, ducks, geese and silkies. The ponds and lakes on property provide a peaceful setting for team members, as well as the animals who make it their home. Job Responsibilities  Oversee the selection and care of all heirloom plantings  Possess knowledge of organic fertilizing and spraying in order to grow and protect the garden in a safe, environmentally friendly manner  Garden renovation and bed amendment  Planting, transplanting, and propagation of plant material  IPM (monitoring, and treatment of health problems of all plant material)  Lead and enhance the overall composting process  Collaborate with the owners, Executive Chef and Preservation team on the planning and contents of the gardens to ensure garden items are utilized in the optimum manner  Assist with the purchasing of garden supplies and plant/garden materials  Assist with developing and conducting informational garden tours for guests and private group tours  Stay informed on the latest trends in organic gardening to incorporate in garden planning  Coordinate with innovative researchers to help implement trials of new discoveries that would improve the estate garden as well as encourage organic gardening overall in Florida, continuing the founders’ ongoing commitment to education and organic gardening improvement  Drive and/or operate machinery as required  Support other projects on the property as needed Position Specifics  Bachelor of Science in Horticulture (or similar), with experience in many of the areas described  Full-time, exempt position working weekdays, (with additional hours potentially required for peak events or projects)  Primary work location is outdoors, with offices and indoor workspace available  Salary: Commensurate with experience, DOE, medical and dental offered, as well as 401K Plan