Million Orchid Project Manager

About The Program

Fairchild is revitalizing South Florida's rare, native orchid populations through the innovative Million Orchid Project. This citizen science initiative is successfully increasing orchid abundance by engaging thousands of schoolchildren and volunteers in the propagation and planting of orchids in public urban landscapes.

The project is unique in its unprecedented scale, focus on public spaces, and commitment to community involvement. By cultivating a sense of environmental stewardship and appreciation for native orchids, the Million Orchid Project contributes to the rejuvenation of South Florida's natural environment.

We are currently seeking a dedicated and passionate Million Orchid Project Manager to join our team and help us achieve our goal of propagating and planting one million native orchids in local, urban, public landscapes.

This position affords room for advancement. A successful manager will have the opportunity to expand to additional Fairchild conservation and education programming.

Responsibilities

• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team.
• Oversee the propagation, distribution, and reintroduction of native orchid species, in alignment with our organizational goals and objectives.
• Develop and manage project budgets, allocating resources efficiently to maximize the impact of our efforts.
• Coordinate with field biologists, horticulturists, and volunteers to monitor and assess the success of reintroduced orchids, implementing adaptive management strategies as needed.
• Oversee the cultivation and maintenance of orchid species in our lab and greenhouse facilities, ensuring optimal growing conditions and adherence to best practices. (Training provided if necessary.)
• Knowledge of orchid biology, ecology, and/or cultivation techniques is a plus. (Training provided if necessary).
• Represent the organization at conferences, workshops, and other events, presenting project updates and building strategic partnerships.
• Exceptional verbal and written communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage and inspire diverse audiences.
• A minimum of 3 years' experience in developing and implementing business strategies, inventory management, sourcing, materials management, planning/forecasting and product lifecycle management, or relevant equivalent.
• Experience in financial operations or related fields.
• Excellent project management skills, with a proven track record of successfully executing complex projects from inception to completion.
• Proficiency in grant writing, proposal writing and/or contract administration.
• Bachelor's degree or higher in Business Administration, Non-Profit Management, Public Administration, Biology, Environmental Sciences, Horticulture, or a related field.
• A minimum of 5 years of experience in project or program management or a relevant equivalent.
• Foster a collaborative and inclusive working environment, ensuring team members have the necessary resources, training, and support to excel in their roles.
• Collaborate with local communities, schools, government agencies, and other stakeholders to promote awareness and garner support for the project.
• Develop, organize, implement, and manage all operational processes of the program.
• Experience working with volunteers, community groups, and diverse stakeholders in a collaborative setting.
• Exceptional attention to detail, organization, problem-solving and multitasking abilities, and time-management skills
• A passion for plant conservation, restoration, orchid species, and a commitment to the mission of Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden.
• Maintain accurate records and documentation of project activities and prepare regular progress reports for internal and external stakeholders.
• Stay current on the latest research, trends, and best practices in orchid conservation and restoration, and apply this knowledge to continuously improve project outcomes.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, GIS software, and other relevant technology tools.
• Work with teachers to implement orchid conservation activities in classrooms, schoolyards, and surrounding neighborhoods.
• Work with others to secure funding and resources for the program by developing and submitting grant proposals, securing sponsorships, and establishing partnerships.
• Manage the orchid related educational programs, including Fairchild Challenge and STEMLab; the mobile orchid propagation lab that visits local middle schools, and outreach activities.

Physical Requirements

• Prolonged periods standing.
• Must be able to work outdoors in a variety of weather conditions.

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BA/BS/Undergraduate