At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a team in maintaining and propagating a rare tropical plant collection.
- Company: The Crosby Company is a vibrant farm in Dover, MA, focused on horticulture and sustainability.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, medical insurance, vision coverage, and a 401(k) plan.
- Why this job: Join a passionate team, learn from experts, and unleash your creativity in a beautiful environment.
- Qualifications: 5-10 years of hands-on gardening experience; a degree in Horticulture is preferred but not required.
- Other info: Must be physically fit and legally authorised to work in the US.
Overview
A farm in Dover, MA is seeking a very experienced Head Gardener to manage a large team with diverse gardens and horticultural needs. The role requires experience with formal and informal annual and perennial formats, a broad knowledge of Central New England flora and fauna, and strong tropical plant maintenance and propagation skills.
Knowledge of tropical plants is required, along with knowledge of New England flora, soil science, IPM, irrigation, and climate zones. The position involves working closely with the estate manager, a team of groundskeepers, an expert horticulturist, and a landscape designer to uphold exceptional standards and creativity in the plant space.
This is an excellent opportunity to learn from a top team while contributing your own knowledge and creativity. Competitive compensation and a robust benefits package accompany this position.
Primary Responsibilities
- Manage and maintain an extensive and rare tropical plant collection; assist with propagation and seasonal movement of plants to various properties throughout Massachusetts.
- Collaborate with Estate team members (gardeners, groundskeepers, horticulturists, landscape designer) to support plant care and planning.
- Demonstrate expertise in growth and care of trees, shrubs, perennials, annuals, and native landscapes; treat the forest as a living garden requiring a keen eye and careful touch.
- Identify and implement a comprehensive IPM system for the estate with organic practices as a priority.
- Assist with landscape design, restoration, and maintenance; understand greenhouse and hoop house operations and seasonal plant care in the Northeast.
- Test and research cultivation techniques; pursue ongoing personal growth in the field.
- Assist the Estate Manager with garden-specific project estimates and communicate best practices in writing and verbally.
- Organize and deliver presentations/demonstrations related to the estate gardens.
- Demonstrate strong interpersonal skills and emotional intelligence within a large, diverse, high-functioning team.
Qualifications, Education, Experience, Skills, and Knowledge
- Bachelor’s degree in Horticulture desired, though extensive hands-on experience is also valuable; continued education in the craft is encouraged.
- Minimum 5–10 years of hands-on experience with increasing responsibilities in horticulture.
- Physical ability to lift 50 lbs and perform strenuous tasks in varying weather conditions.
- Legal authorization to work in the US without visa sponsorship.
- Current and active driver’s license.
- Successful completion of pre-employment requirements.
The Crosby Company of New Hampshire is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to building an inclusive and belonging-oriented culture.
Compensation and Benefits
Base pay range: $40.00/hr – $50.00/hr
Note: Pay is determined based on skills and experience; discuss with your recruiter for details. Benefits are included with this position.
Employment Details
- Seniority level: Mid-Senior level
- Employment type: Full-time
- Job function: Design
- Industries: Trusts and Estates
Relocation: This position is not open to relocation.
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Head Gardener Tropical Plant Curator employer: The Crosby Company of New Hampshire
Contact Detail:
The Crosby Company of New Hampshire Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head Gardener Tropical Plant Curator
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the horticulture field, especially those with experience in tropical plants. Attend local gardening events or workshops to meet potential colleagues and learn about the latest trends in plant care.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with the specific tropical plants mentioned in the job description. Research their care requirements and any unique challenges they present, as this knowledge will be crucial during interviews.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your hands-on experience with both tropical and native plants. Be ready to share specific examples of your past work, particularly any innovative techniques you've used in plant maintenance and propagation.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your teamwork skills by highlighting past experiences where you collaborated with diverse teams. Emphasise your ability to communicate effectively and adapt to different working styles, as this role requires strong interpersonal skills.
We think you need these skills to ace Head Gardener Tropical Plant Curator
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in horticulture, particularly with tropical plants and the specific skills mentioned in the job description. Use keywords from the job listing to demonstrate your fit for the role.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for gardening and your expertise in tropical plant maintenance. Mention specific experiences that align with the responsibilities outlined in the job description, such as working with diverse plant collections or implementing IPM systems.
Showcase Your Knowledge: In your application, include examples of your knowledge about New England flora, soil science, and irrigation techniques. This will help demonstrate your suitability for the role and your ability to contribute to the team.
Highlight Team Collaboration Skills: Since the role involves working closely with a team, emphasise your interpersonal skills and any previous experiences where you successfully collaborated with others in a gardening or horticultural setting.
How to prepare for a job interview at The Crosby Company of New Hampshire
✨Showcase Your Expertise
Make sure to highlight your extensive knowledge of tropical plants and horticulture during the interview. Be prepared to discuss specific examples of your experience with plant maintenance, propagation, and any unique challenges you've faced in previous roles.
✨Demonstrate Team Collaboration
Since this role involves working closely with a diverse team, emphasise your interpersonal skills and ability to collaborate effectively. Share examples of how you've successfully worked with others in past positions, particularly in a gardening or horticultural context.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect questions related to soil science, IPM, and irrigation techniques. Brush up on these topics and be ready to discuss your approach to managing pests organically and your understanding of different climate zones, especially in relation to New England flora.
✨Express Your Passion for Learning
The Crosby Company values continued education and personal growth. Be sure to convey your enthusiasm for learning new cultivation techniques and your desire to progress within the field. Mention any relevant courses or workshops you've attended recently.