Lead Horticultural Excellence at the Smithsonian Institution
Are you a distinguished leader in the field of horticulture? Do you possess the vision to guide the landscapes of the world's most famous research and museum complex? The Smithsonian Institution is currently accepting applications for the position of Supervisory Horticulturist in Washington, D.C. This is a rare opportunity to shape the aesthetic and functional future of the National Mall and Smithsonian gardens.
Job Responsibilities
The Supervisory Horticulturist acts as the primary technical authority for Smithsonian Gardens. Your responsibilities include:
- Strategic Leadership: Directing horticultural operations, landscape design, and plant stewardship.
- Team Management: Supervising subordinate staff, overseeing performance, and conducting interviews.
- Emergency Management: Serving as the lead for continuity of operations and responding to weather or security incidents.
- Operational Oversight: Managing turf, soil, integrated pest management, and greenhouse facilities.
Comparison of Requirements
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| Education | Degree in Horticulture or 30+ hours of plant science coursework. |
| Experience | 1 year at the GS-14 level or equivalent professional experience. |
| Leadership | Proven ability to persuade executives and manage subordinate supervisors. |
| Documentation | 2-page resume limit and relevant transcripts required. |
Requirements and Qualifications
To be considered for this role, candidates must meet specific education and experience thresholds. Because this is a high-level GS-15 position, the Smithsonian requires applicants to demonstrate extensive leadership experience, specifically in a supervisory capacity, and the technical knowledge necessary to manage rare collections and complex museum sites.
Benefits Overview
Employees enjoy a robust federal benefits package, including:
- Health and Life Insurance coverage.
- Generous accrual of vacation and sick leave.
- Defined benefit retirement plans.
- Access to Flexible Spending Accounts for health and dependent care.
Application Tips
Success in your application depends on your ability to showcase your impact. Keep your resume to two pages, focus on your achievements rather than duties, and ensure all transcripts are provided. Do not copy the job description; tell your story.
This position is more than a horticultural role; it is a legacy-building opportunity. If you have the expertise to protect the Smithsonian’s living collections and the leadership skills to guide a diverse team, apply today.
Why This Supervisory Horticulturist Job Matters
Lead the future of botanical excellence and landscape strategy at the world's most prestigious museum and research complex.
Supervisory Horticulturist Job Overview
The Smithsonian Institution is seeking a visionary Supervisory Horticulturist to serve as the senior technical authority for Smithsonian Gardens. In this high-impact, GS-15 leadership role, you will oversee the strategic management of living plant collections, landscape assets, and complex horticultural operations across the National Mall and beyond. This position is the primary point of contact for emergency management, interagency collaboration, and technical stewardship, ensuring that the Smithsonian’s iconic landscapes remain world-class destinations for millions of visitors.
Requirements for Supervisory Horticulturist
- U.S. Citizenship.
- Completion of a specialized degree in horticulture or a related plant science discipline, including at least 30 semester hours in basic plant sciences with 16 hours specifically in horticultural subjects.
- One year of specialized experience at the GS-14 level or equivalent, encompassing technical authority, budget execution, and executive-level leadership.
- Ability to pass a pre-employment background investigation.
- Registration with Selective Service for males born after December 31, 1959.
- Ability to serve a 12-month probationary period for supervisory staff.
Preferred Qualifications for Supervisory Horticulturist
- Demonstrated ability to influence executive leadership and outside agencies.
- Proven experience in managing large-scale, public-facing horticultural operations.
- Success in leading interdisciplinary teams and subordinate supervisors.
- Expertise in emergency management and continuity of operations within a public-facing facility.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive health, life, and accident insurance.
- ✓Generous paid vacation and sick leave.
- ✓Federal holidays.
- ✓Excellent retirement program options.
- ✓Access to Flexible Spending Accounts.
- ✓Recruitment incentives may be authorized for qualified candidates.
💡 How to Apply Supervisory Horticulturist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Supervisory Horticulturist Job
- Prepare a resume that is strictly limited to two pages.
- Apply online via the official federal portal.
- Upload all necessary documentation, including unofficial transcripts and proof of veteran preference if applicable.
- Complete all vacancy assessment questions.
- Monitor your email for status updates throughout the review process.
💡 General Tips
- Your resume must not exceed two pages; brevity and impact are critical.
- Do not copy language directly from the job announcement; describe your actual accomplishments in your own words.
- Ensure all dates and hours worked per week are clearly specified for every job listed.
- Use the online resume builder or ensure your uploaded document contains all necessary grade and series information.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is relocation assistance available?
The Smithsonian does not provide relocation expenses, although recruitment incentives may be authorized at the agency's discretion.
How long will the hiring process take?
The review process is thorough and may take several weeks following the closing of the announcement.
Can I submit a paper application?
Only with prior approval from the contact person. Digital submission is the required standard.
Are transcripts mandatory?
Yes, you must submit unofficial transcripts to verify your educational qualifications during the application process.
Job from Smithsonian Institution
The Smithsonian Institution stands as the world's largest museum, education, and research complex. With 21 museums, the National Zoo, and numerous research centers, the Smithsonian is dedicated to "Inspiring Generations through Knowledge and Discovery." Joining the team means becoming part of an organization that values environmental stewardship, historical preservation, and public engagement.