Education Manager

Horticulture Education Supervisor (Education Manager)
Full-Time | Reports to Executive Director

Inspire. Educate. Engage.
Harry P. Leu Gardens is seeking a dynamic Education Manager to lead and develop innovative programs that connect visitors of all ages, backgrounds, and abilities with the wonders of nature, science, history, art, and wellness. This role is perfect for a passionate educator and program leader who thrives in a vibrant public garden setting.

About the Gardens
Since 1961, Harry P. Leu Gardens has been devoted to inspiring people’s love of nature and plants, preserving our historic landscape, and sharing outdoor experiences with the public. Originally donated to the City of Orlando by the Leu Family, the Gardens is a botanical oasis for daily visitors featuring almost 50-acres of gardens and historical sites which is owned and operated by the City of Orlando.

The Gardens acknowledges the land it resides on originally belonged to indigenous peoples of the Seminole Tribe of Florida, and its current day linage began in 1858 when it was purchased by the Mizell family. Throughout the years the Historic Leu House Museum and grounds developed as a homestead for four different families, finally coming into ownership by Harry P. and Mary Jane Leu in 1936. Harry P. and Mary Jane Leu traveled the world collecting plants and flowers for their grounds and gardens, establishing one of the largest collections of camellias in the Southeastern U.S. In 1961, Harry P. Leu donated the entirety of the grounds and home to the City of Orlando, thus establishing what is Harry P. Leu Gardens today.

Today, the Gardens presents a wide range of displays that feature diverse plant collections from Southeastern ecosystems and highlight Florida’s biodiversity. Educational programs, events and exhibits are offered throughout the year, along with inspired rental and wedding venues for private occasions. For the past 62 years, the Gardens has steadily increased its programs and services for residents and visitors from around the world, hosting more than 10 million visitors to date.

The Gardens campus consists of dozens of horticultural collections and plant displays, the Historic Leu House Museum, the Welcome Center, a 22,000 square foot event venue and main entrance hall, and a handful of operational and program support buildings. The Welcome Center was built in 1995 and the Historic Leu House Museum, originally built in 1888 is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Since the Gardens opened in 1961 as a horticultural showcase of Mr. & Mrs. Leu’s world-wide plant collection, it has evolved into a resource center for horticultural education for all ages, hosts large music and festival events including the long-running plant sale, and is a premier wedding and private event destination in Central Florida.

About the Role
As the Education Manager, you will be the driving force behind the Garden’s interpretive experiences, public programming, and educational initiatives. Your mission is to engage schools, families, and community members through exciting, hands-on learning opportunities.

Key Responsibilities
• Develop and Oversee Educational Programs – Create and manage daily learning experiences, tours, workshops, and events across Science & Nature, History & Culture, Health & Wellness, and Art & Design.
• Write Interpretive Content and Curriculum – Craft engaging materials that enhance visitor learning and understanding.
• Lead and Train Staff and Volunteers – Supervise two part-time education assistants and manage the dedicated volunteer corps.
• Build Community Partnerships – Collaborate with schools, plant societies, civic groups, and academic institutions to expand educational outreach.
• Strategic Development and Budget Management – Assist in shaping the Garden’s educational direction while maintaining resources, budgets, and reports.
• Engage and Inspire Visitors – Lead tours and interactive experiences that bring the Garden’s exhibits and mission to life.

Qualifications
• Passion for science, history, humanities, and/or museum studies, with the creativity to design meaningful interpretive experiences for the public.
• Experience conducting museum tours and programs for all ages.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills with the ability to develop educational curriculum and interpretive materials.
• Familiarity with museum best practices, policies, and procedures.
• Ability to work effectively with diverse audiences, including multicultural and social backgrounds.
• Strong problem-solving skills and ability to work both independently and collaboratively to achieve goals.
• Highly organized with experience managing multiple projects and responsibilities.

Requirements
Bachelor’s Degree required in education, horticulture, public gardens education, cultural studies, or related field with 2-3 years of experience developing educational programs; or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience.

Compensation & Schedule
Starting at $52,436.80 – $66,872.00 Annually
Full-time + benefits from the City of Orlando
Tuesday – Saturday, with night and weekend work for special events and programs

Apply
Apply online at the City of Orlando job page at https://cityoforlando.wd5.myworkdayjobs.com/CityofOrlandoCareers.