College of Agriculture & Natural Resources Department of Horticulture

Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park promotes the enjoyment, understanding, and appreciation of gardens, sculpture, the natural environment, and the arts. Meijer Gardens is ranked among the 100 most visited art institutions in the world. The organization embraces the concept of a major cultural attraction centering around horticulture & sculpture. Meijer Gardens' commitment is to create a legacy of lifelong learning, enjoyment, and a rich cultural experience for generations to come. 

 

Department: Horticulture                                     

Supervisor: Horticulture Manager                                                

Pay Type: Full time, Hourly, Non-exempt

Compensation: The hourly rate for this position ranges from $28.00 to $33.00, depending on experience and qualifications.        

 

Position Summary: The Lead Arborist is responsible for the care, maintenance, and preservation of trees throughout the Meijer Gardens’ landscape. This position oversees arboricultural operations, including tree health assessments, pruning, removals, and planting. The Lead Arborist collaborates with the horticulture team, supervises staff and volunteers, coordinates contractor activities, and ensures that all arboricultural work aligns with Meijer Gardens' mission and standards of excellence. Additionally, this position is responsible for implementing best practices in tree care, risk management, and environmental stewardship.

• Perform all aspects of tree care, including planting, pruning, health assessments, pest and disease management, and removals.

• Develop and implement tree care plans, ensuring the health and longevity of the Gardens’ diverse tree collections.

• Lead and direct staff and volunteers in arboricultural tasks, providing training and guidance in proper tree care techniques.

• Conduct routine inspections of tree health and structural stability, identifying potential hazards and recommending corrective action.

• Operate and maintain specialized arboriculture equipment, including chainsaws, chippers, climbing gear, and aerial lifts.

• Coordinate with contractors for major tree maintenance projects, ensuring adherence to safety and quality standards.

• Maintain accurate records of tree acquisitions, removals, maintenance activities, risk assessments, and treatment plans.  

• Assist in the development and execution of tree planting initiatives, working to enhance the landscape through sustainable arboricultural practices.

• Train and coordinate volunteers for horticultural activities, ensuring effective use of skills and resources.  

• Engage in public education and outreach by leading tours, presentations, and workshops.

• Monitor tree health and implement Integrated Pest Management (IPM) strategies as needed.

• Collaborate with the horticulture team to ensure the overall health and aesthetic quality of the landscape.

• Assist with seasonal snow removal and other horticultural duties as needed.

• Ensure compliance with all safety protocols, including the use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).

• Flexibility in scheduling, including occasional evenings, weekends, holidays, and on-call shifts for emergency tree care or storm response. 

• Support special events and exhibitions as required.

• Participate in relevant committees, providing expertise on tree management and preservation.

• Stay current with industry trends, attending professional development opportunities as needed.

• Perform additional tasks as assigned by the Horticulture Manager.

• Embrace Meijer Gardens’ mission to promote the enjoyment, understanding and appreciation of gardens, sculpture, the natural environment, and the arts.
• Embrace the organization’s non-profit status and commitment to serving and treating the public with dignity and working with a broad and diverse group of employees, volunteers, members, and guests in a respectful and professional manner.

Working Conditions: Basic mobility is expected in offices, grounds, and exhibition areas. Ability to observe details at close range and communicate information accurately with others. Engage in occasional object manipulation with or without assistance, and efficiently navigate the workspace to access essential resources. Ability to regularly move up to 20 pounds, frequently up to 50 pounds, and occasionally move 100+ pounds (i.e., load, unload, and move supplies, medium to heavy weight tools, and equipment). Occasionally ascends/descends a ladder. Regularly operates in outdoor and challenging weather conditions, including exposure to temperatures exceeding 100°F and dropping below 0°F, rain, high humidity, snow, and direct sunlight. This encompasses both outdoor settings and greenhouse environments. May entail exposure to various workplace hazards such as hazardous materials, loud noise, and extreme heat/cold. Exposure to potentially hazardous conditions, including heights, heavy machinery, and sharp tools. Must be able to wear required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), including helmets, eye protection, gloves, and harnesses.