Gardener

Nashville Zoo at Grassmere

Position Title: Gardener

Department: Horticulture

Supervisor: Area Supervisor- Horticulture

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 Gardener plays a vital role in maintaining the Zoo’s diverse plant collections and landscaped environments. This role is responsible for the care and upkeep of assigned greenspaces, including monitoring plant health, watering, fertilizing, pruning, mowing, and weeding. Gardeners ensure that walkways and public areas remain clean, safe, and visually appealing by removing debris and litter regularly.

This role requires proficiency in operating and maintaining landscaping equipment such as mowers, trimmers, and spreaders, with strict adherence to safety and horticultural best practices. A strong interest in plants and a commitment to learning and growing within a dynamic zoological setting are essential. The Gardener contributes directly to the Zoo’s mission by creating vibrant, healthy landscapes that enhance the experience for guests and support the wellbeing of the animals.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Demonstrate a daily commitment to Nashville Zoo’s mission and values.
• Maintain regular and reliable attendance.
• Maintain landscaped areas through regular pruning, weeding, and general plant care.
• Provide hand-watering across assigned areas.
• Assist with plant installation and seasonal horticultural updates as needed.
• Collaborate with other departments and support zoo staff on cross-functional projects.
• Responsible for making timely decisions in the context of a workflow and be able to professionally communicate with staff and guests.
• Execute assigned tasks efficiently, with attention to detail and adherence to schedules.
• Actively pursue continued learning and development in horticulture throughout employment.
• Other duties, as assigned.

Skills:

• Solid understanding of plant health, soil conditions, and horticultural best practices.
• Familiarity with irrigation systems, plant nutrition, and seasonal care techniques for diverse plant species
• Ability to work independently while maintaining safety, efficiency, and attention to detail
• Proven capacity to meet deadlines in a dynamic environment, balancing routine tasks with flexibility for evolving needs.
• Strong collaboration skills for working within cross-functional teams, including animal care, maintenance, and education departments.
• Clear and effective communication skills, with the ability to engage staff and guests in horticulture-related discussions and presentations.
• Proficient in the safe use and maintenance of small hand tools and landscaping equipment

Education/ Experience:

• Minimum High School diploma or GED equivalent is required.
• A background in landscaping, gardening or grounds maintenance is preferred.
• A valid driver’s license is required.

Physical Responsibilities:

• Must be able to learn and remember tasks and processes, maintain focus and complete tasks independently.
• Must have the ability to complete tasks with speed in situations that ensure safety of staff, animals and guests.
• Required to remain alert and engaged while working. Also required to operate equipment and vehicles in a safe manner.
• 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.
• Requires the ability to safely move across slippery surfaces, operate in confined or tight spaces, and handle hazardous or toxic materials following safety protocols.
• Regular lifting, carrying and maneuvering of materials up to 50 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.