Mt. Cuba Center is seeking highly qualified instructors to teach classes at our botanical garden in Hockessin, DE. Classes can fall under one or more of the following categories: gardening, horticulture, landscape design, plant conservation, art, or wellness. Instructors with expertise in one of these specific fields and who teach with an ecological perspective are invited to apply online. These are contract positions.

The Operational Services Assistant supports a remarkable guest experience at Mt. Cuba Center by performing custodial duties as well as room and event set up and breakdown in support of the Education and Guest Experience Division.

Essential Functions:

– Perform custodial duties for Mt. Cuba Center, maintaining areas assigned; clean, dust, and wipe furniture; sweep, mop, or vacuum floors; empty/clean wastebaskets and trash containers; sanitize and maintain restrooms.
– Set up and break down interior spaces, providing programs with the necessary number and configuration of tables and chairs
– Set up and break down exterior spaces for outdoor programs, placing chairs, tables, trashcans, and tents in their proper places
– Provide custodial support during and after programs and events
– Support food and drink service when necessary
– Provide knowledge and guidance to support guest and organizational initiatives related to profession
– Lead, guide, and train employees, interns, and/or volunteers performing related work

Qualifications:

– Self-motivated, organized, attentive to details, and the ability to manage time and effectively function without close supervision
– Ability and willingness to work flexible hours including evenings, weekends, holidays and special events as needed
– Ability and willingness to interact with guests on occasion, providing excellent customer service
– Ability to work both indoors and outdoors, weather permitting
– Working knowledge of custodial practices, supplies, and equipment preferred
– Requires moderate physical work; Frequent standing, bending, kneeling, stooping, crouching, reaching, carrying, lifting, pushing, or pulling of objects up to 50 pounds

Please note this is a seasonal position working 12-16 hours per week throughout the visitation season (March – November). The hours are evening and weekend heavy and may flex up or down depending on the organization’s needs. Interested candidates must have the ability and willingness to work a flexible schedule including evenings, weekends, holidays and special events as needed.

Having trouble applying? Please email careers@mtcubacenter.org for help.

The Fleet and Equipment Mechanic reports to the Facilities Manager and is responsible for a comprehensive maintenance program of Mt. Cuba Center vehicles and equipment. This individual will perform inspections and/or preventive maintenance work on our vehicles and equipment, diagnose malfunctions, and make repairs to ensure the safety and integrity of equipment and vehicles. These include, but are not limited to, tractors, pickup and dump trucks, vans, cars, electric vehicles, mowers, chain saws, leaf blowers, snow removal equipment, small utility vehicles, and backhoe. This position’s primary duties revolve around maintenance and repair of small engine equipment with fleet equipment focus on minor maintenance and repair with interaction for larger projects with dealership mechanics. This position will outsource certain specialty equipment maintenance/repair with appropriate vendors and is responsible for oversight of these jobs from start to end. The Fleet and Equipment Mechanic is responsible for keeping records of parts and labor needed to maintain each piece of equipment, placing orders for parts and supplies needed for equipment or service, and communicating any needs or problems relating to the maintenance or repair of equipment. This individual ensures safety and is responsible for maintaining a clean service area and maintenance building.

Essential Functions:

• Inspect, diagnose, and repair mechanical defects and failures in various grounds maintenance equipment, including, diesel-, electric- and gasoline-powered automobiles, trucks, trenchers, sweepers, rollers, mowers, and other mechanical equipment used in utility work.
• Instruct and/or train staff regarding preventive maintenance, and the proper cleaning of and safe operation of equipment.
• Maintain a preventive maintenance program within budget on all equipment, and purchase repair parts and replacement supplies.
• Keep a complete set of records for equipment and parts inventory purchases, equipment conditions, costs of repairs and preventive maintenance for all equipment.
• Recommend equipment purchases and leases.

Minimum requirements include a high school diploma or GED and 3 years of practical mechanical service experience; must have mechanical training and demonstrate a mechanical service skillset. ASE certification and welding skills are preferred. The successful candidate will have mechanical aptitude with an interest in physical systems, equipment maintenance and servicing; the ability to safely and effectively operate and maintain a wide range of hand tools, power tools, vehicles and small and large  engine equipment including the use of chain saws, brush chipper, and manual transmission vehicles; the ability to work in a variety of weather conditions while repairing equipment; the ability to communicate effectively and keep business records; proficiency in Microsoft Suite;  and be able to learn and adapt to various software and technology programs to complete work duties. We are seeking a self-motivated, organized, team player with attention to detail who can manage time and work effectively with minimal supervision.

The Seasonal Horticulturists’ Assistant is responsible for a broad range of garden maintenance activities in support of the Horticultural Team for the continued development and refinement of the gardens at Mt. Cuba Center.

Essential Functions:

Gardens Care & Maintenance
– Assist the Horticulturist Team in maintaining the health and care of living plant collections by performing a variety of horticultural tasks including, but not limited to, site/soil preparation, planting, transplanting, mulching, weeding, watering, fertilizing, herbicide/pesticide application, and pruning
– Maintain well-groomed and safe garden pathways and assigned areas that are free from debris, including snow/ice removal as needed
– Assist other divisions with horticultural projects and activities

Support Guest and Organizational Programs 
– Provide knowledge and guidance to support guest and organizational initiatives related to profession
– Lead, guide, and train employees, interns, and/or volunteers performing related work
– Carry out other such duties as may be assigned or requested. Contribute to MCC activities as required. Actively participate as a member of Mt. Cuba Center’s community.

Qualifications:

– At least 1 year of hands on ornamental and/or naturalistic gardening experience
– Good working knowledge of plant identification, plant growth and cultural characteristics, disease recognition and control
– Possess a strong interest in native plants, shrubs, and trees, and naturalistic gardening
– Ability to safely and effectively operate and maintain a wide range of tools, vehicles, and small and large-engine equipment
– Ability and willingness to work outdoors in a variety of weather conditions
– Ability to learn and adapt to various software and technology programs to complete work duties
– Self-motivated, organized, attentive to details, and the ability to manage time and effectively function without close supervision
– Ability and willingness to work flexible hours including evenings, weekends, holidays and special events as needed
– Requires moderate physical work: frequent standing, bending, kneeling, stooping, crouching, reaching, carrying, lifting, pushing, or pulling of objects up to 50 pounds

Please note this is a seasonal, part time position working no more than 1,000 hours between the months of March – December 2021. Candidates should be able to accommodate an average of 16-24 hours per week (Monday – Friday during the day). 

Please email careers@mtcubacenter.org with questions or for help applying.

ABOUT MT. CUBA CENTER

Mt. Cuba Center inspires an appreciation for the beauty and value of native plants, and works to conserve native flora through community engagement, collaborative efforts, and independent research. Our gardens highlight native plants in naturalistic and formal gardens, and our natural lands comprise a variety of habitats supporting a diverse array of wildlife. Through our programs, we foster appreciation of native plants and catalyze that energy to motivate a community of conservation. We are committed to building a collaborative, inclusive work environment, and are perennially named one of Delaware’s Best Workplaces.

THE POSITION

Our new Director of Conservation & Research will act as a strategic business partner to develop and lead all conservation and research initiatives. They will be responsible for producing results that advance understanding of native plants and healthy ecosystems, further conservation efforts, and effectively engage the public and professional community in Mt. Cuba Center’s mission. Working collaboratively with the senior leadership team, this individual will lead the organization in carrying out the strategic goals and founding intention of Mt. Cuba Center.

Mt. Cuba Center’s numerous programs, partnerships, and education and outreach efforts propel research and conservation efforts throughout the Piedmont region. Connecting our research expertise with an appreciation of native plants and their ecological value is the core of our comprehensive mission. Accordingly, as the new Director of Conservation and Research you will have a deep appreciation for Mt. Cuba Center’s role as a conservation leader and be able to think creatively about how to lead and share our seminal research in native species and the conservation of natural lands and plant species.

PRIORITIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Lead Mt. Cuba’s Conservation, Research & Collections Management Programs: Provide strategic direction and leadership to our research programs including horticultural trials, native plant propagation and production, and the ecological management of our natural lands. Collaborate with staff, universities, organizations, community, and others to advance Mt. Cuba Center’s research objectives; oversee contracts and project management of fellowships and university collaborations; oversee research publications that investigate the horticultural and ecological value of native plants, and our living and nonliving collections management programs.

Provide Trial Garden, Greenhouse & Natural Lands Oversight: Oversee the operation of our renowned trial garden, over 1,000 acres of natural lands, and soon to be built, state of the art, net-zero energy, production greenhouse.

Staff Leadership: Successfully recruit, lead, develop and inspire staff who can successfully collaborate with internal and external constituencies to help realize the core objectives of our organization’s ambitions, ensuring clear communication and accountability across the team.

Program and Project Administration: Oversee the envisioning, development, implementation and evaluation of strategies for furthering the achievement of MCC’s overall vision, mission and program goals, and direct all aspects of the execution of those strategies. Work cooperatively with the management team on adopting and implementing organization-wide systems, and help guide and execute the strategic goals of the institution to support Mt. Cuba Center’s mission.

Strategic Partnership: Assist the Executive Director in maintaining Mt. Cuba’s relationships with multiple external parties by interpreting and explaining MCC and its programs. Represent MCC in professional organizations and at professional and community meetings and events as requested. Serve as a strategic business partner by collaborating with the Board of Managers and serving on Board Committees to carry out the organization’s founding intention.

IDEAL EXPERIENCE AND CHARACTERISTICS

Minimum requirements include a Master’s degree in horticulture, ecology, botany or related plant science field from an accredited university and 10 years’ experience in horticultural, ecological, or conservation research with at least 5 years’ management experience. Must have exceptional written, verbal, and presenting communication skills, be proficient in broad horticultural and plant identification knowledge, particularly plants of the eastern United States, and have proficiency with sound scientific and plant research techniques.

The successful candidate will be an exceptional leader and have demonstrated ability in sound reasoning and judgment in making practical business decisions, in organizing, managing, and motivating others, and in effectively fulfilling organizational leadership roles and building meaningful partnerships. Ideal candidates will have an entrepreneurial spirit, curiosity and enthusiasm, and the ability to adapt and work effectively in a competitive environment.

Mt. Cuba Center is committed to inclusivity and encourages qualified candidates from all cultures and communities to apply.

Mt. Cuba Center is a botanical garden in the rolling hills of Hockessin, Delaware, with collections focused on plants of the eastern temperate forest, particularly the Appalachian Piedmont. Mt. Cuba Center’s founders, Lammot and Pamela Copeland, were avid gardeners whose ambition was that their Brandywine Valley estate would become a public garden that inspires an appreciation for native plants and healthy ecosystems and motivates conservation action by catalyzing community engagement.

“I want this to be a place where people will learn to appreciate our native plants and to see how these plants can enrich their lives so that they, in turn, will become conservators of our natural habitats.”                                   

-Mrs. Lammot du Pont Copeland

Comprising 1,083 acres, Mt. Cuba Center features formal estate gardens, exquisite, naturalistic woodland gardens, and over 1,000 acres of natural lands managed to promote diverse habitats for plants and wildlife. Mt. Cuba Center is intent on growing its audience and impact in conserving regional biodiversity.

Position Summary:

The Horticulturist is responsible for developing and maintaining creative planting displays of the living collection within the gardens. This position supports the guest experience and upholds Mt. Cuba Center standards for plant care.

Horticultural Planning & Documentation Assistance
– Assist with horticultural design development as needed in support of the Horticulturist team
– Maintain plant record documentation on behalf of the Horticulturist team as needed and adhere to the Living Collection Policy

Gardens Care & Maintenance
– Monitor and maintain the health and care of living plant collections by performing a variety of horticultural maintenance activities including, but not limited to, site/soil preparation, planting, transplanting, mulching, weeding, watering, implementing Plant Health Care practices, monitoring for pests and disease, herbicide/pesticide application as appropriate, and pruning
– Maintain well-groomed and safe garden pathways and assigned areas that are free from debris, including snow/ice removal as needed

Support Guest and Organizational Programs related to Horticulture
– Provide knowledge and guidance to support guest and organizational initiatives related to profession
– Lead, guide, and train employees, interns, and/or volunteers performing related work
– Carry out other such duties as may be assigned or requested. Contribute to MCC activities as required. Actively participate as a member of Mt. Cuba Center’s community

Qualifications:

– Associate’s degree in horticulture or plant science from an accredited college, university, or recognized certificate in horticulture and 5 years’ experience working in a public garden setting or equivalent experience
– Broad knowledge of native herbaceous and woody plant identification, growth and cultural characteristics, pest/disease recognition and control
– Ability to safely and effectively operate and maintain a wide range of hand tools, power tools, small and large engine equipment and vehicles
– Ability and willingness to work outdoors in a variety of weather conditions
– Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite and ability to learn and adapt to various software and technology programs to complete work duties
– Self-motivated, organized, attentive to details, and the ability to manage time and effectively function without close supervision
– Ability and willingness to work flexible hours including evenings, weekends, holidays and special events as needed
– Requires moderate physical work; frequent standing, bending, kneeling, stooping, crouching, reaching, carrying, lifting, pushing, or pulling of objects up to 50 pounds

Mt. Cuba Center is committed to diversity and inclusivity and we encourage qualified candidates from all cultures and communities to apply. This is a full-time, benefits eligible position. We offer a competitive salary, comprehensive benefits package, and outstanding professional development opportunities.

Mt. Cuba Center is seeking an experienced public garden and/or museum education program manager to provide oversight with developing, guiding, assessing, and delivering superior public engagement programs. This individual will administer all educational and interpretive activities and guide all staff to produce meaningful programs that inspire the use of native plants and a commitment to conservation. The successful candidate will have experience with formal and informal environmental education programming, possess strong managerial skills and work cooperatively with management to execute strategic initiatives that align with our core values of mission above self, collaboration, remarkable experiences, respect for the individual, curiosity and creative license, and responsible stewardship.

Responsibilities

Oversee Public Engagement Program:
Develop, implement, and evaluate public engagement programs for all audiences including but not limited to, adult education, public programs, community outreach, onsite interpretation, and internships. Create program pricing models, work with staff to develop curricula and thematic programming aligned with our mission and commitment to conservation. Manage the production process for the bi-annual program guide and oversee distance learning and learning management system platforms.

Provide Strategic Initiative Oversight:
Collaborate with the Director of Education & Guest Experience to develop growth strategies. Identify and pursue annual programming, engagement, and revenue goals. Diversify program offerings and develop Mt. Cuba Center’s overall audience. Design and evaluate programmatic undertakings for their capacity to further our organization’s mission.

Staff and Project Leadership:
Supervise, coach, and inspire full and part-time education and programming team members. Successfully plan and execute department initiatives and budget in alignment with the core objectives of our organization’s mission and goals.

Qualifications

Minimum qualifications include a bachelor’s degree in education, environmental/plant science, public administration, or related field and 5 years’ experience in managing a public garden or museum education program or similar role. Must have exceptional interpersonal, managerial, team building, public speaking, verbal and written communication skills, proficient computer skills and working knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite programs. The successful candidate will have the ability to effectively listen and communicate with staff, and the public; be self-motivated, organized, attentive to details, with the ability to manage time and effectively function without close supervision; and have the ability to learn and adapt to various software and technology programs to complete work duties. Must be willing to occasionally work flexible hours including evenings, weekends, holidays, and special events to support mission-related programs.
This is a full-time, benefits-eligible position. Please provide your resume, letter of interest, and contact information for at least three professional employment references including a current email address for each.
Mt. Cuba Center is committed to inclusivity and encourages qualified candidates from all cultures and communities to apply.