Explore a Career with Lauritzen Gardens

About Our Organization

Lauritzen Gardens, acclaimed as the Best Attraction in the 2025 Omaha Metropolitan Area Tourism Awards and voted #3 by USA Today for Top Botanical Gardens in the United States, is home to 100 acres of horticultural displays showcasing the diverse Nebraska landscape. Lauritzen Gardens is a non-profit organization that provides conservation efforts across the Great Plains, practices and promotes thoughtful and ecologically minded horticulture practices, creates educational and inspirational experiences, and offers a year-round schedule of tours, programs, and workshops that explore, explain, and celebrate the world of plants. Lauritzen Gardens is dedicated to upholding its exceptional standards and providing joyful experiences for its visitors.

Job Summary

Lauritzen Gardens is seeking a skilled Conservatory Lead Technician to assist in all aspects of facilities maintenance under the direction of the Facilities Manager. This role plays a key part in keeping our campus running smoothly, safe, and welcoming for staff and guests. The position includes overseeing the preventative maintenance schedule, executing repairs, and supporting the operations of:

• Visitor and Education Center (25,000 sq. ft.)
• Conservatory (17,000 sq. ft.)

Like all full-time employees at Lauritzen Gardens, the Facilities Lead Technician works a 40-hour week that may occasionally include weekend days, after-hours work, snow removal, special projects, event support, and overtime as needed.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform and help lead preventative maintenance for the Visitor Center & Conservatory.
• Inspect sites regularly, document conditions, and identify/implement solutions in coordination with the manager.
• Complete Argus environmental management system training within 90 days; use aerial equipment for repairs and preventative maintenance as needed.
• Execute repairs in carpentry, woodworking, drywall, HVAC, plumbing, electrical, painting, and other trades.
• Safely operate and maintain lifts, forklifts, and other large equipment.
• Maintain indoor/outdoor garden furniture and fixtures.
• Use, clean, and properly store tools and equipment.
• Document work and communicate via computer systems weekly.
• Assist with installation of garden festivals, events, and horticulture shows.

Requirements & Qualifications

• Minimum of 4 years of facilities maintenance experience; management/supervisory experience preferred.
• Proficiency in HVAC, plumbing, electrical, carpentry, and general building repair; certifications or technical training in these fields are a plus.
• Ability to safely lift 50 lbs., stand, squat, and kneel for extended periods, and work in extreme environmental conditions.
• Strong soft skills: dependability, flexibility, active listening, and teamwork.
• Ability to work cooperatively as part of a team or independently.
• Comfortable working with people of all ages and abilities.
• Valid driver’s license required.

Work Environment

• On-site at the botanical garden working indoors and outdoors across facilities.
• Exposure to a variety of weather conditions, including heat, cold, rain, and wind.
• May work around mechanical equipment, tools, vehicles, and power equipment.
• Frequent interaction with staff, volunteers, contractors, and occasionally the public.
• May be required to respond to maintenance issues, emergencies, or operational needs during evenings, weekends, or holidays.
• Work involves standing, walking, bending, climbing stairs or ladders, and lifting or carrying equipment or materials up to 50 pounds.
• Tasks can include routine maintenance, troubleshooting equipment, repairs, and setup or teardown for events and programs.
• Use of personal protective equipment (PPE) may be required depending on tasks.

What We Offer

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• Long-term & short-term disability insurance.
• Life insurance.
• 401 (k) with company match.
• 8 Paid Holidays + 2 Paid Floating Holidays.
• Garden Membership.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP).
• Bereavement Leave.
• Opportunities for professional development.