Horticulturist - Boerner Botanical Gardens

Job Description

Posted Thursday, January 15, 2026 at 7:00 AM | Expires Friday, January 30, 2026 at 6:59 AM

Milwaukee County is searching for authentic people who are out to change the game and bring their whole selves to work every day.

Milwaukee County oversees operations from our Airport, Behavioral Health, Child Support, Combined Court Operations, Sheriff's Department, Community Reintegration Center, Human Services, Parks, Public Safety, Public Works, Fleet Operations, Transportation, and at the Zoo. Our departments are also dedicated to our Seniors and those with Disabilities in Aging and Disability Services, and Veterans in Veterans Services. Our employees also remain committed to serving the cultural, human, recreational, and social needs of the entire community.

Milwaukee County offers a wide variety of interesting jobs for people who want to make a difference in our community. Milwaukee County provides a competitive benefit package and is an Equal Opportunity Employer. If disability related accommodations are needed, please contact . For submitted application inquiries please contact
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an online application must be submitted for consideration.

We are searching for Changemakers to come and join our team and discover our diverse and versatile community of independent spirits and unique talents, we are redefining the way you think about Milwaukee County!

Horticulturalist

Milwaukee County Parks – Boerner Botanical Gardens

Hourly Pay Range: $22.33 - $33.51

Closing Date: 1/29/2026 or upon receipt of the first 50 applications

Parks Equity Statement Milwaukee County Parks is committed to attracting and retaining a diverse workforce that is demographically and racially representative of Milwaukee County residents. Milwaukee County Parks leadership is committed to honoring diverse experiences, perspectives, and unique identities, while fostering work environments that are inclusive, equitable, and welcoming.

Job Summary: The Horticulturist is responsible for the care, development, and presentation of assigned garden areas at Boerner Botanical Gardens. This position performs skilled horticultural work, including planting, maintenance, and seasonal display design across multiple garden spaces. The Horticulturalist supports high horticultural standards, visitor experience, and the mission of Milwaukee County Parks.

• Perform daily horticultural care of assigned garden areas, including planting, pruning, weeding, soil preparation, irrigation, fertilization, pest management, and seasonal change‑outs to ensure the highest aesthetic and horticultural standards.
• Design and install seasonal floral and plant displays within assigned gardens to enhance visitor experience and reflect Boerner Botanical Gardens’ design themes.
• Provide guidance, training, and daily supervision to volunteers, interns and seasonal staff working in assigned garden spaces. Ensure safe and efficient work practices and positive public engagement.
• Maintain accurate plant records, inventories, and maps in coordination with the Horticulture Supervisor. Track materials, assist with procurement, and support plant labeling and accessioning in accordance with garden policies.
• Inspect, maintain, and operate equipment, tools, and irrigation systems necessary for horticultural tasks. Ensure safe use and proper storage of materials and machinery.
• Provide customer service to visitors, assist with tours and programs, and support special events in or near assigned garden areas.
• Perform all other duties as assigned.
• Current resident of Wisconsin.
• Possession of a valid Wisconsin Driver’s License, able to be maintained throughout employment.
• Possession of an Associate Degree or higher in Horticulture or a related Natural Sciences degree, or two (2) or more years of equivalent experience in lieu of a degree.
• One (1) or more years of experience in Horticultural Maintenance, Plant Care, or a related field.
• Willing and able to obtain a Category 3.0 Pesticide Certification within six (6) months of start date.
• Able to push, pull, lift, and carry up to 40 lbs.
• Willing and able to work a flexible…