Plant Conservation Technician

Overview

Department: NC Botanical Garden - 525000

Career Area: Environment, Health and Safety

Posting Open Date: 01/28/2026

Final date to receive applications: 02/19/2026

Position Type: Temporary Staff (SHRA)

Position Title: Plant Conservation Technician

Position Number:

Vacancy : S026757

Full-time/Part-time: Full-Time Temporary

Hours per week: 40

Work Schedule: Monday – Friday, some evenings/weekends. Occasional overnight travel.

Position Location: North Carolina, US

Hiring Range: $16.00 - $17.00 per hour

Proposed

Start Date:

05/18/2026

Estimated Duration of Appointment: 6 months not to exceed 11 months

A global higher education leader in innovative teaching, research and public service, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill consistently ranks as one of the nation’s top public universities. Known for its beautiful campus, world-class medical care, commitment to the arts and top athletic programs, Carolina is an ideal place to teach, work and learn. One of the best college towns and best places to live in the United States, Chapel Hill has diverse social, cultural, recreation and professional opportunities that span the campus and community.

University employees can choose from a wide range of professional training opportunities for career growth, skill development and lifelong learning and enjoy exclusive perks that include numerous retail and restaurant discounts, savings on local child care centers and special rates for performing arts events.

The North Carolina Botanical Garden (NCBG) has been a leader in native plant conservation, horticulture, and education in the southeastern United States for more than 50 years. As part of The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, we further the University’s tripartite teaching, research, and public service mission through our own mission to cultivate connections between plants, people, and place through science, engagement, and conservation.

As a garden focused on conserving the biodiversity of southeastern native plants, we recognize that just as biodiversity is critical to a healthy ecosystem, diversity in people and perspectives makes our organization and community stronger. NCBG is committed to creating an environment in our gardens and natural areas where everyone’s voice is heard, and everyone feels safe and welcome.

The Plant Conservation Technician (PCT) works with the Conservation Department at the North Carolina Botanical Garden (NCBG) to support and advance our efforts in restoration ecology. PCT will gain hands on experience in plant identification, propagation, seed production, seed collection, field botany, and research. Specifically, working as part of the Conservation team, the PCT will help the conservation grower with the propagation and maintenance of containerized native plants and seed increase beds.

Additionally, the PCT will collect seed for cultivated native plant species, clean and process seeds for storage, and maintain detailed records and reports. The PCT will sometimes assist with wild seed collecting, land management/habitat restoration activities, and research projects on the restoration and conservation of rare plants. PCT will learn from highly qualified staff, network with plant conservation professionals, and participate in further educational opportunities.

This opportunity is ideal for those seeking experience or careers in plant conservation, restoration ecology, botanical/ecological research and land management.

This position involves driving; a driving record check will be conducted as part of the hiring process.

High school diploma or equivalency and one year of experience that demonstrates possession of the competencies necessary to perform the work; or equivalent combination of training and experience.

• Course work in botany, plant ecology, biology, environmental science, horticulture, or related field.
• Knowledge of the southeastern flora
• Experience with dichotomous keys for plant identification.
• Seed collection and processing experience or familiarity with the Seeds of Success protocols.
• Farming or nursery experience related to plant propagation or crop management.

Plant Conservation Technician(s) need the ability to safely move up to 50 lbs. and to work in adverse conditions (extreme temperatures, insect exposure, and poisonous plant exposure) outdoors for extended periods. Duties to be performed with or without reasonable accommodation.

Not Applicable.

H-1B sponsorship is not available for this position.