Botanic Collections Specialist

Position Title: Botanic Collections Specialist

Department: Facilities

Subdepartment: Horticulture

Supervisor: Horticulture Manager

Nashville Zoo Mission:

Nashville Zoo is dedicated to inspiring a culture of understanding and discovery of our natural world through conservation, innovation, and leadership. With a diverse collection of animals and a commitment to wildlife preservation, we provide engaging experiences for visitors of all ages.

Why Work with Us:

At the Nashville Zoo, we believe in taking care of our team just as well as we care for our animals. Full-time employees enjoy a robust benefits package designed to support your health, well-being, and future:

• Comprehensive healthcare coverage – including medical, dental, and vision plans to keep you and your family healthy.


• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) – confidential support services for mental, emotional, and financial well-being.


• 401(k) retirement plan with company matching – helping you build a secure future while you make a meaningful impact today.


• Generous paid time off and sick leave – because rest and recovery are vital.


• Exclusive zoo perks – enjoy discounts on park experiences, retail, and food services, plus complimentary membership benefits.


• A collaborative and inclusive culture – be part of a diverse team where your voice matters, your growth is nurtured, and collaboration thrives across all departments.


• AZA-accredited facility – Nashville Zoo is committed to top-tier animal care, ethics and global conservation efforts.

Description: 

The Botanic Collections Coordinator plays a vital role in the stewardship, documentation, and strategic development of the institution’s living plant collections. This position ensures that the collections are well-curated, accurately recorded, and aligned with the zoo’s mission of conservation, education, and public engagement.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Demonstrate a daily commitment to Nashville Zoo’s mission and values.


• Maintain regular and reliable attendance.


• Manage and maintain plant collections.


• Planning and implementing planting schedules.


• Oversee plant propagation and cultivation.


• Manage garden budget and fundraising efforts.


• Maintain and update plant records using botanical database systems.


• Oversee labeling, mapping, and accessioning of plant specimens.


• Conduct regular inventories and audits of living collections.


• Collaborate with Horticulture Manager to guide plant acquisitions and deaccessions.


• Develop and implement collection policies and strategic plans.


• Ensure collections support institutional goals in conservation, research and education.


• Prepare reports, presentations, and interpretive materials related to the collections.


• Liaise with national and international plant conservation networks.


• Assist with tours, lectures, and educational programming.


• Provide training and support to staff, interns, and volunteers on plant records and taxonomy.


• Ensure compliance with environmental and health/safety regulations.

Skills:

• Ability to self-direct work tasks while ensuring safety and productivity.


• Capability to meet deadlines in a dynamic work environment and maintain consistency in daily routines while being adaptable to unexpected needs.


• Collaboration skills in dynamic and cross-functional team environments.


• Effective and professional communication abilities- both written and verbal.


• Proficient with small hand tools and equipment.


• Technologically adept with online applications and office software.

Education/ Experience:

• Degree in Botany, Horticulture, Plant Science or related field.


• Experience in plant records management or botanical curation.


• Proficient in plant database software.


• Strong knowledge of plant taxonomy and nomenclature.

Physical Responsibilities:

• Must be able to learn and remember tasks and processes, maintain focus and complete tasks independently.


• Responsible for making timely decisions in the context of a workflow and be able to professionally communicate with staff and guests.


• Required to remain alert and engaged while working.


• This role involves working both indoors in temperature-controlled settings and outdoors year-round in typical Tennessee weather, including heat, cold, rain, and humidity.


• Must be comfortable navigating uneven terrain and working in environments with exposure to dust, allergens, and changing weather conditions.


• Occasional lifting and carrying of materials up to 25 pounds is required.

Pre-employment requirements:

Nashville Zoo is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer and maintains a drug-free work environment. All employment is at-will.

• All candidates are required to successfully complete a criminal background check and drug screening prior to hire.


• Pre-employment and annual tuberculosis (TB) screenings are a condition of continued employment.