Associate Director, Land Stewardship and Ecology

~ One of the world’s great gardens, Longwood’s story is one of legacy, innovation, and stewardship. ~

Our Gardens are a living expression of all that our founder, Pierre S. du Pont, found inspiring, meaningful, and beautiful. From the intricate fountain systems to the meticulous gardens to the architectural grandeur, awe-inspiring discoveries await at every turn.

Our commitment to ecological land management and preservation extends beyond the formal Gardens to include nearly 700 acres of natural areas consisting of meadows, forests, and wetlands.  These practices are governed by our “Soil to Sky Management Plan.”

Position Overview

Longwood Gardens is seeking an Associate Director, Land Stewardship and Ecology with proven leadership skills to ensure efficient and ecologically sound management of Longwood Gardens’ natural lands. Longwood’s natural lands total over 600 acres and consist of woodlands, meadows, wetlands and agricultural fields including an 86-acre Meadow Garden, a highly sought destination for many of our guests. The Associate Director, Land Stewardship and Ecology will provide leadership of restoration, ecological research, wildlife management, invasive plant management, maintenance and aesthetics of the natural lands.

Responsibilities

• We are seeking an individual who has demonstrated ability working in a fast-paced, highly creative, collaborative, and sustainably-minded environment.
• This position will operate in the Research and Conservation Division of our Horticulture Department and will lead a team of four full-time and several part-time and seasonal staff as well as interns, students and volunteers.
• This team also supports Longwood’s Plant Conservation Program.

Qualifications

• Requirements for this position include a master’s or Ph.D. degree in restoration ecology, horticulture, environmental science or related field and 5 years of experience in natural land management with a minimum of 3 years in a leadership capacity.
• The ideal candidate will have a proven understanding of science-based, ecologically minded land management, plants native to the mid-Atlantic region, ecological research, plant conservation and a demonstrated ability to improve ecosystem function.
• Excellent communication skills including scientific writing, formal and informal presentations, tours, management plan development and team leadership are required.

Compensation

• We offer a competitive starting salary and an outstanding benefits package.

To Apply

• For full consideration, please click "Apply" below to upload a resume, cover letter addressing pertinent qualifications, and contact information for three professional references.