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 Plant Records Assistant will support the Plant Recorder & Assistant Curator in all Plant Records activities. This will include entering and maintaining computer-based plant records, production of accession tags and identification labels, conducting periodic inventories, and assisting staff with Mt. Cuba Center’s living collection information. The Plant Records Assistant operates under the daily supervision of the Plant Recorder & Assistant Curator.

Essential Functions

Plant Records & Mapping

• Assist the Plant Recorder in completing mapping activities and operate mapping equipment
• Conduct periodic inventories of Mt Cuba Center’s living collection
• Assist in the production of accession tags and identification labels

Database Maintenance

• Enter and maintain computer-based plant records into database system

Support Guest and Organizational Programs related to Living Collections

• 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 

• 1 year of experience in plant records, curatorial, or horticulture-related field
• General knowledge of plant identification, plant growth and cultural characteristics
• Familiarity with database maintenance and GIS software
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and current knowledge-sharing technologies
• Must possess a strong interest in native plants, shrubs, and trees, and naturalistic landscaping
• Excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to effectively communicate with the staff and the public
• 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 outdoors in a variety of weather conditions
• 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 30 pounds

Please note this is a part time, non exempt position working under 1,000 hours per year.

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

The Seasonal Public Safety Officer provides an exceptional guest experience by maintaining a safe and secure environment for Mt. Cuba Center guests and employees. Using excellent customer service skills, the Public Safety Officer circulates throughout the site, responds to guest and staff concerns as they arise, and assists in the daily operations of the Guest Experience Department by providing parking and setup/breakdown support. Please note this is a seasonal, part time position.

Essential Functions

Public Safety
– Patrol and monitor Mt. Cuba Center’s premises to maintain a safe and secure environment for visitors and employees
– Work with the designated supervisor on duty to provide written reports of daily activities and irregularities, such as equipment or property damage, theft, presence of unauthorized persons, accidents, safety and fire hazards, and other public safety related situations
– Provide first response in emergency situations (CPR, AED and First Aid). Inspect medical equipment, audit and replenish medical/safety supplies.
– Follow established protocols and procedures and work with the designated supervisor on duty to address any guest or staff member concerns related to their safety or property, the safety or property of others, or the property of Mt. Cuba Center
– In concert with the designated supervisor on duty, make sure that all visitors have departed at the end of the general admission day or special event

Guest Services
– Greet guests in a friendly and enthusiastic way, answer questions, and attend to guest needs to ensure a positive experience while visiting Mt. Cuba Center
– Shuttle guests and staff in a golf cart and vehicles when needed

Provide Support for Parking & Operations
– Assist in visitor parking and traffic support
– Operate electronic applications to assist with departmental data collection
– Assist in the regular setup and breakdown of department programs and events as needed

Support Guest and Organizational Programs related to Guest Experience
– 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
– A high school diploma or GED
– An active certification in First Aid, AED and CPR through a program recognized by the American Heart Association or a willingness to complete the certification within 30 days of hire
– An active certification in a State of Delaware approved Alcoholic Beverage Servers Program or a willingness to complete the certification within 30 days of hire
– Exceptional interpersonal and customer service skills
– Ability to plan, organize, and manage independent projects simultaneously with great attention to detail
– Ability to effectively communicate with the staff and the public
– Ability to multi-task and work effectively in a fast-paced environment with a high level of professionalism
– Capable of independently making quick decisions with sound judgment and discretion
– 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 mornings, evenings, weekends, holidays and special events as needed
– Ability and willingness to work outdoors in a variety of weather conditions
– Must be at least 21 years of age
– This position requires moderate physical work including frequent standing for extended periods of time; frequent walking up and down hills on uneven terrain; lifting, pushing, and pulling objects up to 40 lbs.
– Must have a valid drivers license and be able to pass a MVR check. Certification to drive a passenger van a plus but not required.

Bilingual skills are preferred but not required.

Please note this is a part time, seasonal position. During our open season (April to November) a typical schedule includes 4 or 8 hour shifts Wednesday – Sunday between the hours of 9:00 am – 6:00 pm for an average of 24 hours per week (weekend heavy).  These hours are weekend heavy and occasional early mornings or later evenings may be required. Hours 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.

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

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 Seasonal Natural Lands Assistant is responsible for a broad range of activities in support of the Natural Lands Division in order to promote the ecosystem health and function of lands owned by Mt. Cuba Center, the habitats they contain, and the larger systems to which they are connected. Work includes a variety of land management tasks, flora and fauna habitat restoration, and ecological monitoring.

Essential Functions: 

Natural Lands Restoration and Preservation Assistance
– Assist with the monitoring and removal of invasive plant species using mechanical and chemical control methods; this can include use of bladed trimmers, hand loppers, and backpack herbicide applications
– Assist with the installation and maintenance of restoration areas
– Assist with general maintenance of fences, gates, signs, other structures within the natural lands, tools, and equipment
– Assist with ecological monitoring projects

Assistance in Executing Projects 
– Assist the Natural Lands Division in executing projects that support the Natural Lands Management Plan
– 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:

– High School diploma or GED
– 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
– 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
– This position requires strenuous physical work including frequent standing, bending, twisting, stooping, climbing, lifting, pushing, or pulling of objects over 50 pounds
– Please note this is a part time, seasonal position working under 1,000 hours during the months of March through November 2021. Candidates will work Monday through Friday during the day for an average of 32 hours per week; however, hours may flex up or down depending on business need.

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

The Volunteer Coordinator is responsible for volunteer recruitment and management of our volunteer program, working collaboratively with other staff to develop and execute volunteer coordination tasks. This individual will recruit, interview, and onboard new volunteers to assist staff across all teams. They will administer all elements of the program, including establishing and maintaining volunteer policies and procedures; determine volunteer placement and utilization; onboard, train, and provide enrichment activities; maintain database and data tracking; facilitate individual and group volunteer projects; participate in community partner volunteer events; provide team building opportunities; and plan volunteer recognition.

In this role you will work with other teams to increase the diversity of our 100+ volunteer team; develop and maintain effective communications with volunteers, staff supervisors, and community volunteer partners; and work with staff to identify and implement volunteer programs that enhance and expand Mt. Cuba Center’s impact.

Minimum qualifications include a Bachelor’s degree and two years’ experience, or equivalent experience managing a large team of volunteers in a non-profit setting, in volunteer management, community engagement, or education, with knowledge of horticulture, ecology, and/or environmental studies. Must have exceptional interpersonal, 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, volunteers, 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 comfortable working outdoors on uneven terrain in all weather conditions and be willing to occasionally work flexible hours including evenings, weekends, holidays and special events.

Please provide a resume, letter of interest and contact information including a current email address for three professional employment references.

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

Mt. Cuba Center seeks an experienced Fleet and Equipment Mechanic to be responsible for small engine repair, fleet management and general repairs. 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 tractors, pickup and dump trucks, vans, cars, electric vehicles, mowers, chain saws, leaf blowers, snow removal equipment, small utility vehicles, and backhoe.This position will outsource certain specialty equipment maintenance/repair with appropriate vendors and is responsible for oversight of these jobs from start to end.

Minimum requirements include a high school diploma or GED and 3 years of practical mechanical service experience with ASE certification; must have mechanical training and demonstrate a mechanical service skillset. CDL Class A License 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; 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 is able to manage time and work effectively with minimal supervision. Must be able and willing to perform strenuous physical work, and to work occasional flexible hours including evenings, weekends, holidays and special events as needed.

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

Please include a resume, letter of interest and contact information including a current email address for three professional employment references.

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 champions research, education, and conservation of the native plants of the Piedmont region throughout its natural lands and beyond its borders. Our gardens highlight native plants in natural settings and formal gardens, curating a showcase of natural beauty. Our team includes expert researchers, passionate horticulturists, and extraordinary staff who seek to expand the knowledge and appreciation of these native plants. We promote and collaborate with diverse organizations, researchers, and individuals that are working to help the public understand conservation through public programs, community outreach, landscape design and more.

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

Provide Conservation, Research & Collections Management Programs Oversight: Collaborate with staff, universities, organizations, community, and others to engage in conservation and research initiatives that 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 non-living collections management programs.

Provide Greenhouse & Natural Lands Management Oversight: Oversee all operations of production greenhouse, inclusive of plant propagation and production and associated protocols; direct greenhouse projects and initiatives within this department. Direct Mt. Cuba Center’s natural lands management and restoration efforts.

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 Mt. Cuba Center and its programs. Represent Mt. Cuba Center 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.

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.