Job Description
Bernheim Forest and Arboretum, a 16,000+ acre protected forest in Kentucky, about 25 miles south of Louisville, is seeking a dynamic leader with an ability to think strategically while working in a highly creative and collaborative environment across a multidisciplinary organization.
Bernheim is home to a 600-acre arboretum, designated as Kentucky’s official arboretum. The natural landscape features 40+ miles of hiking trails and extensive natural areas managed for conservation and research purposes. Its woodlands, prairies, and wetlands make up the largest privately-owned forest in the Eastern United States dedicated to education and conservation. Bernheim is a privately owned not-for-profit, relying on donations and memberships, whose mission is to connect people with nature. Annually, over 350,000 people experience Bernheim through visits, educational programs, field trips, and Bernheim festivals.
The Edible Garden Steward is directly responsible for growing/harvesting fruits and vegetables and maintaining pollinator habitat within the Edible Garden. Bernheim’s Edible Garden produces food to support our Isaac’s Café seasonal menu. The Edible Garden Steward will work closely with volunteers of all skill ranges.
Bernheim’s commitment to DEI (diversity, equity, and inclusion) began with the vision of our Founder, Isaac Wolfe Bernheim. He envisioned a Bernheim that would be accessible to all, and to this day Bernheim is committed to this core principle.
Essential Duties/Responsibilities
Plant, harvest, and rotate crops with minimal crop failure (minimal is less than 5%).
Perform raised bed and garden bed maintenance of fruit, vegetable, perennial and woody crop species.
Maintain accurate departmental records and other necessary paperwork.
Interact in an appropriate and professional manner with visitors, staff, and volunteers, and interpret botanical and horticultural subjects for the public.
Assist in developing plans and techniques for a more efficient and ecologically stable maintenance strategy within the Nursery. This strategy will model our existing Bernheim Climate Crisis Action Plan (BCCAP).
Contribute to on-site work projects related to construction and installation of Edible Garden design projects.
Collaborate with Nursery Manager to develop annual budgets, programming, and interpretation. Collaboration will extend to other departments.
Perform the following activities: mix a variety of potting mediums, grow plants from seed, plugs, and propagation methods, assist with greenhouse equipment and computer controls.
Scout for pests and disease; make treatment recommendations based on IPM standards.
Operate and maintain a wide range of hand tools, power tools, small/large engine equipment and vehicles safely and effectively.
Lead tours and/or teach related classes.
Contribute content for social media, blogs, and print (Forest Echo).
Other duties as assigned, including participation in events and all-staff projects.
Requirements
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
Baseline knowledge and skills for the position include but are not limited to excellent verbal communication, including public speaking, strong interpersonal skills, professional writing skills, and proficiency with Microsoft Office applications.
Demonstrated experience and interest in sustainability, ecosystem gardening, and the relationship between food, environment, and community.
Utilize mathematics and science (botany, biology, horticulture) daily.
Work independently and in a team-based environment.
Comfort and ability to engage in outdoor environments, in all weather conditions.
Role may require the ability to continuously walk, stand, bend, twist and/or stoop and lift up to 50lbs.
Flexibility to work a variety of hours, including evenings, weekends, holidays, and special events as needed.
Licenses and Certifications
Must possess a valid driver’s license at time of hire.
Current Kentucky Non-Commercial Pesticide Applicators License with the 3N Category or ability to obtain within six months of hire.
Education and Experience
A degree in Horticulture or related field, with a track record of proven management experience.
Related experience is also considered and valued.
Broad knowledge of woody, herbaceous and edible species.
Compensation
This full-time, hourly position reports to the Nursery Manager.
Pay range: $18-$20/hr.
Competitive benefits package includes health/vision/dental insurance, retirement 403(b) match benefit and paid sick, holiday and vacation leave.
How to Apply
Please send all inquiries and resumes to: HR@bernheim.org.
More Information
Bernheim Forest and Arboretum is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We recruit, employ, train, compensate, and promote without regard to race, color, national origin, creed, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, marital status, parental status, disability, age, veteran status, or any other status protected by law.