Job Post: Director of Living Collections at FWBG|BRIT

[Hannah Rodriguez]

The Fort Worth Botanic Garden (FWBG) is a 110-acre public garden featuring 23 specialty gardens.  FWBG is managed by The Botanical Research Institute of Texas (BRIT), an international scientific research and learning center located in the Cultural District of Fort Worth, Texas.  BRIT’s mission is to conserve our natural heritage by deepening our knowledge of the plant world and achieving public understanding of the value plants bring to life.  

The Fort Worth Botanic Garden | Botanical Research Institute of Texas (FWBG|BRIT) seeks a Full-Time Director of Living Collections for the Horticulture area. Through scientific curation and information management, this director builds and maintains a world class collection of plants, with emphasis on begonias and orchids.  Maintains database records and oversees production of plant identification signage.

Principal Responsibilities/Duties/Functions/Tasks

• Directs and manages plant collections records as needed, including data entry as required. Develops and supervises the living collections team and advises staff for optimal maintenance of plant database records including new accessions, moves, deaths, nomenclature updates, research, and horticultural information.
• Works with VP of Horticulture and other horticulture supervisors to update and manage the Living Collections Plan and Policy
• Assesses collection needs and develops short and long-term plans for acquisition and succession in accordance with the Living Collections Plan and Policy
• Supervises regular inventories of the Garden’s living collection, in both the public and nonpublic spaces of the Garden.
• Collaborates with plant form specialists (e.g., of begonias, etc.) to maintain collection in optimal condition
• Trains and supervises volunteers that assist with curatorial activities
• Coordinates and oversees the creation of plant identification labels to support education and outreach in the Garden
• Leads the Botanic Garden Red List Team in yearly evaluations of the living collection and development of recommended actions to prevent loss of taxa from the living collection. Oversees implementation of those recommendations
• Organizes, directs, and manages expeditions, both local and international, for acquisition of new living materials, obtain special international permits and oversee logistics of plant transport
• Assists with implementation of plant introduction program, including obtaining material, in collaboration with staff of Horticulture Department
• Assists in herbarium voucher program for existing Garden living collections
• Provides expertise, planning and oversight for plant salvage and plant re-purposing during all Garden renovation and construction projects.
• Facilitates taxonomic research with plant scientists in area of specialization and publishes results in appropriate journals and other outlets
• Represents the Botanic Garden in national and international meetings
• Serves on internal Garden committees and assists with Garden events as required
• Performs other duties as assigned by the VP of Horticulture

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Special Position Requirements

• Increasing responsibility as living collections programs grow is likely within 5-7 years. Interest in pursuing Master of Science or higher degree in horticulture, plant science or related field will be an important consideration for long term growth in this position.
• Valid Texas Class C Driver’s License
• Possession of or ability to obtain a passport.

Required Education and Experience

• Minimum of Bachelor of Science degree in horticulture, plant science or related field
• Five years of experience in horticulture, Plant Science, or related field
• Experience with electronic plant databases (Excel, Access, BG Base, livingcollections.org, or similar) and GIS
• Knowledge of permit requirements for plant import/export
• Field experience–Ability to work outdoors in various types of terrain and extreme weather conditions

Preferences

• Master of Science degree in horticulture, plant science or related field
• Multi-lingual (Spanish, English)
• Knowledge of horticultural industry and plant development programs

 

Please see full job description for a more detailed list of job tasks and applicant qualifications. https://brit.org/about-us/careers/

Instruction on How to Apply:

FWBG|BRIT strives to maintain a positive working environment focused on growth and success of individuals, working together in a collaborative, professional manner, with communication a priority. To apply, please submit a resume and cover letter as a single document to: brithr@brit.org. Applications will be considered until the position is filled. FWBG|BRIT is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

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