At Taronga Zoo in Sydney and Taronga Western Plains Zoo in Dubbo, we lead conservation efforts in the field and participate in regional and global breeding programs to establish insurance populations for species threatened in the wild. We also operate two wildlife hospitals that treat and rehabilitate injured native wildlife, and we provide best‑practice health care for the animals at our zoos.
Location : Dubbo’s Iconic - Taronga Western Plains Zoo.
Position : Horticulturist – 12‑month temporary full‑time contract (parental leave cover). Salary : TCSA Salaried Employees Award, Horticulturalist Level 1.1, base annual package starting from $70,765 (+ superannuation & leave loading). Annual leave : 5 weeks.
About the Role
You will provide horticultural services for the presentation of exhibits and general facilities, maintenance of bushland using regeneration and revegetation techniques, tree health, and the management of browse plantations for essential animal food collection.
Key Accountabilities
- Carry out a broad spectrum of horticultural duties including grounds, garden, and lawn maintenance, species identification, browse production & harvest, revegetation, turf management, and weed control with approved chemicals.
- Provide technical expertise and advice to gardeners and other labor resources on general grounds maintenance (remnant bush areas, harbour foreshore, and off‑site browse collection sites).
- Undertake landscaping projects within grounds and exhibits, including horticultural expertise on landscape design.
- Undertake bush regeneration and revegetation around Taronga premises.
- Coach, support, and mentor allocated staff including gardeners, horticultural apprentices, and volunteers.
- Actively contribute to record keeping – research, identification, cataloguing, data collection, and labeling of plant species across zoo grounds, exhibits, browse plantations, and harbour foreshore.
- Work effectively as part of a high‑performing team to assist Taronga in achieving strategic outcomes.
- Promote sustainable practices to help Taronga achieve sustainability targets and reduce environmental impact.
About You
- Recognised trade or horticulture certificate or equivalent experience.
- Current NSW driver’s licence (or ability to obtain a recognised licence, including driving a manual vehicle).
- Current paid NSW Working with Children Check.
Pre‑Employment Requirements
- Q Fever vaccination at own expense.
- Pre‑employment medical assessment.
Benefits
- Complimentary family and friends passes across both Taronga Sydney & Dubbo zoos.
- 5 weeks annual leave.
- Discounts on award‑winning accommodation, food and beverage purchases, and fitness passports across both sites.
- + more!
About Applying
Please submit your resume and a one‑page cover letter. You are also required to complete the two target questions as part of your application:
- Outline your previous experience within a horticulture workplace and explain what makes you suitable for this position.
- Describe your leadership style and how you motivate team members throughout the work day.
Applications close: 11:59 PM, Tuesday 11 November 2025.
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