Horticulture Specialist-Variable Part-time

Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance (DZCA) is a leader in animal care, wildlife conservation, and education. We are passionate about our commitment to excellence in support of our mission of Inspiring Communities to Save Wildlife for Future Generations. 

DZCA honors our animals, staff, and guests by conducting ourselves at the highest level of integrity through our Core Actions -- Inspire Awe: Safety, Care, Connect and by embracing our Core Values of: Welcoming, United, Curious, Courageous and Transformative in all that we do.

The Variable Part-time Horticulture Specialist advances our mission and goals by providing horticultural care for the plant community as part of the living campus; the areas include animal exhibits and guest areas. This includes monitoring, pruning, fertilizing, pest control, watering, collaborative design, and record keeping necessary to optimize the health and vigor of the living landscape.

Candidates must be available to work a flexible schedule, including weekends. This is a variable part-time position with a maximum of 19 hours per week; however, scheduled hours may fluctuate and are not guaranteed each week. Weekly schedules will vary based on operational needs.

Our team is made up of passionate and diverse professionals dedicated to providing excellent care for our animals while creating meaningful experiences for our guests. If you're excited to contribute your skills in a collaborative and innovative environment, Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance is the place for you!

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Zoo Horticulture

• Monitor and implement the horticultural care of the zoo’s landscapes, exhibits, and specialty collections to the highest standard.


• Help create a great guest experience through the plant community and interactions with guests.


• Contribute to the zoo’s plant database.


• Execute Integrated Pest Management Program.


• Monitor irrigation systems, perform minor repairs, and coordinate with the Irrigation team on repairs needed beyond scope of skill level.

Safety and Compliance

• Follow and uphold all department and zoo-wide policies and protocols.


• Demonstrate a commitment to DZCA’s Occupational Health, Safety, and Sustainability Policies by adhering to all environmental, safety, & health regulations, procedures, and goals.


• Follow all directives set by department leaders.

Collaboration

• Collaboratively design and implement all plant displays in the area of responsibility.


• Work closely with animal care and animal health teams to implement planting programs within animal exhibits.


• Collaborate with the Arboriculture team to maintain the tree and shrub collection(s).


• Work with horticulture volunteers to contribute to a meaningful volunteer experience.


• Work with horticulture interns to develop their skills and provide learning opportunities to put their skills into practical application.


• Participate in snow removal operations and is available to work needed weekends and holidays as an on-call status for snow removal.


• Participate in support for DZCA Events, including Zoo Lights.


• Maintain professional working relationships with zoo team members and contractors.


• Participate in and/or support zoo-wide committees and work groups.

Other Duties and Responsibilities

• Other assistance, as designated by Horticulture leadership, to support the overall goals of the department and organization.  DZCA retains the right to add or change duties and/or responsibilities at any time.


• Acts as a good steward of DZCA’s resources.


• The nature of this position requires safeguarding against the release of confidential and proprietary information of DZCA.


• This position will interact with managers at all levels and staff members across the organization, in addition to members of external organizations and the public. 

Technical / Professional Requirements & Qualifications

• B.S. in horticulture or related fields. 1-year paid full-time professional experience in horticulture.


• 3 years’ work experience in horticulture will be considered in place of a B.S. Degree, or any equivalent combination of education and/or experience.  Experience with Iris BG or other collections management databases is a plus. Experience with public horticulture at a zoo, museum, or botanical garden is a plus


• Basic computer skills, including Microsoft Office Suite, are preferred.


• Requires organizational skills, written and oral communication skills, attention to detail, and ability to prioritize work and tasks. Requires adaptability to produce and meet deadlines in a fast-paced, multi-tasking and changing environment, and the ability to work as part of a team.

Compensation

The range for this position is $24.19 - $29.65 hourly.

Position Conditions

• Ability to pass a physical examination, background check, and pre-employment drug and alcohol screen.


• To support our operations, candidates must be at least 21 years of age with a valid driver's license and a clean driving record.


• Ability to lift to 50 lbs.


• Heavy Equipment Operation basics needed; however, training can be provided.


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  Schedule Availability: Monday-Friday, some weekends, and evenings as needed.

  
  


• Work Location: On campus

Wild Perks

As a Variable Part-time team member, you’ll have access to some great perks, including: 

• A Family DZCA Membership – Bring your crew and explore!


• Exclusive Discounts – Save on concessions and retail.


• Sick Time Accrual – Because your well-being matters.


• 403(b) Retirement Account – Plan for your future.

Application Process and Timelines

Application deadline: February 24, 2026. Review of applications will begin immediately.  DZCA reserves the right to close the position prior to this date. 

Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance is an Equal Opportunity Employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected status or any other characteristic protected by law.

www.denverzoo.org