Curator & Conservation Lead

About the position

The Curator & Conservation Lead at Gardens of Golden Gate Park is responsible for leading the documentation and development of the Gardens’ living collections and relaunching conservation initiatives. This position involves managing a team and collaborating with various stakeholders to enhance the living collections and promote the importance of these collections. The role is pivotal in guiding the Gardens through a period of growth and increased visitation, with a focus on conservation and community engagement.

Responsibilities

• Development, curation, documentation, and management of the living collections.
• Implement and maintain plans and policies for the development and maintenance of the living collections.
• Participate in project planning for new and existing gardens.
• Identify sources and acquire new plants for the Gardens’ collections.
• Ensure correct identification and documentation of plants in an effective database.
• Oversee the use of GIS technology for collections mapping and documentation.
• Develop the first phase of a conservation plan outlining goals and partnerships.
• Coordinate activities to activate participation in the Climate Tool Kit.
• Supervise the Plant Propagation Manager and manage a volunteer program.
• Directly respond to requests for information and research from various stakeholders.
• Educate visitors and staff about the living collections.
• Manage and mentor collections staff.
• Develop and manage budgets and work plans.
• Work with the Advancement team to raise funds for the Gardens.

Requirements

• Master’s degree or higher in botany, horticulture, or related field.
• At least five years of collections management experience in a botanical garden or similar setting.
• Knowledge and experience with curatorial best practices and database management.
• Deep botanical knowledge and horticultural understanding.
• Strong understanding of conservation best practices within a public botanical garden.
• Exceptional ability to share botanical knowledge with diverse audiences.
• Ability to develop a multi-year vision for the Collections & Conservation Department.
• Ability to manage organizational change and support staff.
• Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.

Nice-to-haves

• Experience working with volunteers and public-private partnerships.
• Experience with production and plant retail.
• Knowledge and understanding of budgeting for programs and retail.

Benefits

• Full-time employment with a 35-hour work week.
• Hybrid work model with at least 3 days onsite.
• Salary range of $125,000 to $145,000.