Offsite Orchid Specialist

POSITION TITLE: Offsite Orchid Specialist (PART-TIME)

REPORTS TO: The Million Orchid Project Manager 

ABOUT FAIRCHILD TROPICAL BOTANIC GARDEN

Founded in 1938, Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden is one of the world’s premier tropical botanic gardens, home to internationally recognized collections of cycads, flowering trees, tropical fruit, vines, aroids, and endangered plant species. Fairchild serves as a living laboratory for scientists and a place of discovery and inspiration for visitors of all ages. In addition to its scientific and conservation work, Fairchild hosts a variety of community events and experiences throughout the year, including the award-winning NightGarden, Chocolate Festival, Mango Festival, and more.

POSITION DESCRIPTION

Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden is seeking a reliable and motivated Offsite Orchid Specialist to assist with orchid deliveries and installations throughout municipal and public sites across Miami-Dade County as part of The Million Orchid Project. This is a part-time, flexible, project-based position. Work is scheduled based on installation needs and project timelines, making this role ideal for individuals seeking flexible or on-call style work. Hours may vary weekly depending on the number and scale of installations scheduled. The Offsite Orchid Specialist will assist with transporting, staging, mounting, and installing orchids in outdoor environments. Candidates should be comfortable working outdoors in South Florida conditions and performing physically active work that may include climbing ladders, lifting materials, and navigating uneven terrain. Basic horticultural knowledge is preferred.

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES

• Coordinate and assist with orchid deliveries and installations at municipal and community sites throughout Miami-Dade County.
• Work independently with minimal supervision while exercising sound judgment and professionalism.
• Complete installation assignments efficiently and within designated timeframes.
• Safely climb and work on ladders and, when necessary, within trees or elevated planting areas.
• Operate work vehicles and navigate throughout the greater Miami area.
• Utilize landscape tools, ladders, mounting materials, and planting equipment safely and effectively.
• Assist with orchid handling, staging, organization, and maintenance during installation projects.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment.
• Perform additional duties as assigned by the supervisor.

Please note: The responsibilities listed above are intended to describe the general nature of the role and are not an exhaustive list of all duties that may be assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Must be at least 18 years of age.
• Valid Florida driver’s license required, or the ability to obtain one.
• Previous experience working in a botanical garden, nursery, zoo, museum, landscape operation, or themed attraction is preferred but nor required.
• Basic knowledge of tropical plants and orchids is a plus.
• Ability to work a flexible, as-needed schedule, including early mornings or occasional weekends depending on project demands.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Ability to stand, walk, bend, climb, and work outdoors for extended periods of time.
• Must frequently lift and/or move materials weighing up to 40 pounds.
• Comfortable working outdoors in varying weather conditions, including excessive heat and humidity.
• Must be comfortable working on ladders and in physically demanding outdoor environments.