Plant Propagator
$54,080,000–$63,544,000 year
On-siteGlencoe, Illinois, United States
Job Summary
Propagate plants through seed, cutting, division, grafting, and budding to support the Garden's living collections, seasonal displays, and conservation programs. Grow material to transplantable size, coordinate delivery schedules, and forecast weekly and monthly propagation capacity while maintaining accurate production records and inventory levels. Manage the stock plant collection, monitor environmental settings via the Argus system, and oversee Integrated Pest Management activities including biological controls and pesticide application. Coordinate propagation requests from scientists, students, and external partners, supervise staff, and contribute to process improvements that enhance efficiency and plant quality.
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in horticulture, plant science, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience
- Minimum of five years of professional plant propagation experience
- Supervisory or lead experience preferred
- Demonstrated knowledge of propagation techniques, greenhouse operations, environmental controls, and plant production practices
- Experience maintaining plant inventories, production records, and collection management databases; experience with Brahms preferred
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications, including Teams, Excel, Outlook, and PowerPoint
- Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines in a dynamic production environment
- Demonstrated ability to build collaborative working relationships with individuals from diverse backgrounds and areas of expertise
- Proficiency in written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills
- Ability to analyze problems, exercise sound judgment, and develop practical solutions
- Demonstrated flexibility and adaptability in response to changing operational and project needs
- Current valid driver's license and insurable by the Chicago Horticultural Society
- Illinois pesticide applicator license or the ability to obtain one within an established timeframe
- Ability to successfully complete required Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) respiratory surveillance requirements, including medical evaluation and spirometry testing, as applicable
- Must be able to lift, push, pull, and carry items weighing up to 50 pounds
- Must be able to stand for extended periods and occasionally sit while performing job duties
- Must be able to work in greenhouse, nursery, and outdoor environments in varying weather conditions throughout the year
- Work assigned weekends and holidays as required
Desired Qualifications
- Supervisory or lead experience preferred
- experience with Brahms preferred
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