Work With Us
Green-Wood is hiring. Discover ways to work with us!
We seek outstanding candidates to help us serve our community as a working cemetery and place of memorialization, a National Historic Landmark, an arboretum, and a cultural institution.
Mission Statement
Green-Wood is a living cemetery that brings people closer to the world as it is and was, by memorializing the dead and bringing to life the art, history, and natural beauty of New York City.
CURRENT OPENINGS
Chief Operating Officer (Full-Time Role)
Position: Chief Operating Officer
Reports to: President
Location: The Green-Wood Cemetery, Brooklyn, NY
FLSA Status: EXEMPT
Work Schedule: FULL-TIME ROLE
Compensation: $260,000 – $280,000 (commensurate with experience)
Date: February 24, 2026 – until filled
BACKGROUND
Green-Wood is one of the oldest continually operating institutions in New York City. It was founded in 1838 and predates Central Park, Prospect Park, the Brooklyn Museum, the Metropolitan Museum of Art, and all but two of the City’s cultural institutions. As an early example of the Rural Cemetery Movement, Green-Wood became the area’s most prestigious cemetery within two decades of its founding. Both historically and at present, Green-Wood has offered burials that accommodate many different rituals, customs, and religions. Green burials and other natural memorials are recent additions to its commemorative options.
Today, Green-Wood is a multi-use venue that reaches well beyond its traditional role as a burial ground. The grounds are open 365 days a year, and admission is always free. Over the past decade, Green-Wood has become well-known for its cultural programs, including walking and trolley tours, site-specific art installations, an artist-inresidence program, and classical music and jazz concerts in the Catacombs, to name just a few offerings. Innovative programs in death education have gained a significant constituency in recent years. Green-Wood’s environmental initiatives, including climate resilience measures, a massive stormwater abatement program, and fellowships in urban ecology, have garnered national attention. Collectively, these programs have been instrumental in expanding the ways Green-Wood connects with its community and has experienced explosive growth in popularity over the past few years.
POSITION
The inaugural chief operating officer (COO), responsible for shaping Green-Wood’s long-term operational, financial, and organizational growth, will serve as a strategic thought partner and advisor to the President and an essential member of the senior leadership team. Leading a team of over 70 staff, this role drives enterprise-wide planning, ensures strong financial stewardship, advances innovative revenue strategies, and builds the operational foundation needed to support Green-Wood’s next chapter.
RESPONSIBILITIES
Entrepreneurial Leadership
- Partner with the President to guide Green-Wood’s long-term vision and institutional direction.
- Lead the development and execution of major planning initiatives, including the Strategic Plan, 20-Year Capital Plan, and Five-Year Operational Plan.
- Conduct rigorous analysis of economic, operational, and land-use impacts across cemetery, horticulture, and resilience functions, including green burials and beyond, innovations in green-space management, emissions and energy-reduction strategies, major capital project planning, and leveraging new exhibition and event venue.
Building Systems/Processes and Operational Oversight
- Work with the President and across departments to convert manual and siloed operations into an integrated system, including cemetery sales, administration, and inventory systems alignment, developing data stories to support fundraising, bookkeeping, and budgeting, and land management.
- Lead complete IT overhaul, focused on upgrading and consolidating databases to provide one central portal for information, inquiry and transactions.
- Oversee Green-Wood’s administrative domains, including IT, security, and facilities.
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams to establish performance indicators and metrics to measure the effectiveness of core Green-Wood initiatives. Prepare and present results through an internal tracking dashboard and high-level progress reports for the senior leadership team and Board.
- Maximize Green-Wood’s buying power through facilities and inventory management, and procurement.
- Lead the evaluation of internal systems, business processes, and use of technology resources to ensure continuous innovation, efficiency, and responsiveness to Green-Wood’s growing and changing organizational needs.
Revenue Innovation and Business Development
- Lead revenue modeling for new ventures that will support Green-Wood’s long-term financial sustainability, such as natural organic reduction (NOR) and the Green-House.
- Evaluate and model the optimal balance between mission-driven public programming and revenue-generating initiatives.
- Develop a detailed understanding of the profit and loss of every aspect of the Green-Wood enterprise, including the Cemetery and Cultural Services.
- Partner with the President to make strategic investments in revenue-generating opportunities that support the cemetery’s mission.
Executive Management
- Lead and manage five direct reports across IT, Facilities, Security, Operations, and Finance and a total team of 70 staff.
- Assess roles and functions as needed to ensure alignment with Green-Wood’s core mission and strategic priorities.
- Communicate priority goals to all staff, resulting in coordinated work products.
QUALIFICATIONS
Experience – Required
- Bachelor’s degree in business administration, public administration, finance, or related field.
- 15 years of senior leadership experience in public sector or large, complex nonprofit organizations in NYC, with at least 7 years at the C-suite level with responsibility for organizational/business planning, budgeting, strategy, and/or infrastructure/capacity building.
- Proven track record of successfully scaling organizations, driving revenue modeling and generation, overseeing operations and land use portfolio/ventures and complex business transactions, overseeing multiple infrastructure and administrative domains, and/or leading large and diverse teams.
- Ability to optimize the sustainable and compliant use of perpetual care funds through strategic planning, expense alignment, and rigorous financial oversight.
- Highly disciplined business and financial planning skills with the ability to anticipate and forecast environmental circumstances that impact organizational goals and business plans.
- Extensive knowledge of business process optimization, streamlining operations and forecasting; ability to balance multiple priorities, make difficult decisions in complex business matters and transactions, ensure accountability, and align resources to achieve results.
- Demonstrated success in managing and overhauling IT departments, including the consolidation of legacy databases.
- Advanced subject matter expertise and change management experience within the realms of finance, technology, and operations.
Experience – Preferred
- Master’s degree with a focus on business and/or finance.
Personal Attributes
- A passion and drive for leading organizational growth, strategy, and innovation with a hands-on approach and ability to focus at a detailed level when needed.
- A quick study who can evaluate a problem effectively, jump in enthusiastically, and provide creative solutions.
- A natural and engaging relationship builder who can communicate and execute collaboratively with the President, departmental teams, the Board, and external stakeholders.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- A person of high integrity and ethics with impeccable judgment and the ability to communicate decisions with a sense of purpose, clarity, and accountability and responsibility to colleagues and the public.
- A willing and excited partner looking to usher Green-Wood into the next era of growth as a final resting place, cultural institution, climate resiliency hub, and public space
COMPENSATION
- Anticipated salary is $260K – $280K, commensurate with qualifications and experience.
- Benefits package including medical and dental insurance, retirement contribution match, tax-free commuter benefit, and paid time off.
Frequently cited statistics show that women and people from underrepresented groups apply to jobs only if they think they meet 100% of the criteria. If you meet many but not all the criteria and feel you may be a good fit for the role, Green-Wood encourages you to apply.
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
Green-Wood is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of age, color, national origin, ethnic origin, citizenship status, disability, race, religion, creed, gender, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, marital status, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law in its employment policies. Green-Wood will provide reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities
READY TO APPLY?
Please send a cover letter and resume as one PDF to GWCOO@pbrsearch.com with the title format “Last Name First Name – Letter Resume” and complete the Voluntary Self-Identification form. This will assist us in improving our hiring practices and ensuring equal opportunities. Participation is voluntary and will not affect your candidacy in any way.
Director of Human Resources (Full-Time Role)
Position: Director of Human Resources
Reports to: President
Location: The Green-Wood Cemetery, Brooklyn, NY
FLSA Status: EXEMPT
Work Schedule: FULL-TIME ROLE
Compensation: $140,000 – $160,000 (commensurate with experience)
Date: February 23, 2026 – until filled
ABOUT GREEN-WOOD
The Green-Wood Cemetery is the permanent residence of more than 580,000 individuals and a beloved public destination, welcoming nearly 500,000 visitors annually. Spanning 478 acres of historic grounds, grand architecture, and world-class statuary, Green-Wood is more than a cemetery—it is a National Historic Landmark, an accredited arboretum, an outdoor museum, and a cultural hub rooted in the heart of Brooklyn.
As a living cemetery, Green-Wood blends preservation, nature, and community engagement with innovation. Our work spans a wide range of programming—from the arts and education to environmental stewardship, workforce development, restoration, and scholarly research. Through it all, we remain deeply committed to honoring our mission and treating every visitor and family with care, dignity, and respect.
ABOUT THE OPPORTUNITY
Green-Wood Cemetery is seeking a dedicated and experienced Director of Human Resources to join our team. Green-Wood is a multi-faceted organization that encompasses a working cemetery, arts and cultural programming, an accredited arboretum, a deep commitment to history, and connecting with the diverse communities of Brooklyn.
This newly created senior staff position will be instrumental in shaping and managing all aspects of the organization’s human capital function. The Director of HR will bring a strong balance of strategic people leadership experience, hands-on execution, and a proven track record of managing all facets of HR, including day-to-day operations, employee relations, organizational and employee development, talent management, and policy and regulatory compliance.
The ideal candidate will possess exceptional communication and negotiation skills, a people-centric mindset, and a deep knowledge of applicable labor laws and HR best practices. Serving as a trusted advisor to the President and senior leadership team, the Director of HR will champion people-related initiatives and help cultivate a high-performing, mission-aligned workplace culture. The successful candidate will be proactive, compassionate, and highly organized with the ability to help build and maintain a positive workplace culture while effectively collaborating with external partners to support the HR function.
WHAT YOU WILL DO
- Strategic HR Advisor: Serve as a trusted advisor to the President, senior leadership team, and Board supporting organization design, workforce planning, and transformation initiatives which advance Green-Wood’s mission, values, and strategic priorities. Lead HR initiatives that strengthen organizational effectiveness, employee engagement, and workplace culture.
- HR Administration & Compliance: Manage all day-to-day HR operations, including the maintenance of accurate and confidential employee records, oversight of HR systems and processes, and compliance with applicable federal, state, and local employment laws and regulations. Develop, implement, and maintain the Employee Handbook and all HR policies and ensure that they align with Green-Wood’s mission, values, and HR best practices.
- Employee Relations & Support: Serve as the primary resource for all employee relations matters providing timely, fair, and consistent guidance across the organization. In collaboration with the President provide support for workplace conflicts, conduct investigations into formal employee complaints, and ensure appropriate resolution in alignment with organizational policies and legal requirements.
- Talent Acquisition & Workforce Planning: Oversee the full employee lifecycle, including the development and execution of recruitment and retention strategies designed to attract and retain diverse, mission-aligned talent. Lead onboarding and new hire orientation initiatives to ensure a welcoming and engaging experience for new employees. Administer offboarding processes that provide a professional and respectful exit process for departing staff.
- Performance Management & Employee Development: Advise and coach managers on performance management, employee engagement, and professional development with the goal of fostering a positive, accountable, and high-performing workplace culture.Manage the performance review process, providing tools, and support to managers and employees that promote a culture of continuous feedback and improvement. Assess employee learning and development needs, and design or source training programs to enhance employee competencies, improve performance, and strengthen leadership capabilities.
- Compensation & Benefits: Administer and manage employee benefits programs, including health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off. Conduct market benchmarking and compensation analyses to establish an equitable and competitive pay structure and ensure that compensation and benefits align with organizational goals and budget parameters.
- Labor Relations & Collective Bargaining: Manage all aspects of union relations, including collective bargaining negotiations. Ensure consistent interpretation and adherence to the terms of the governing collective bargaining agreement while fostering constructive labor-management relationships that minimize risk to the organization.
- Safety & Wellness: Oversee workplace safety programs that promote a safe and healthy work environment and ensure compliance with applicable OSHA safety regulations and standards.
- External Partnerships: Collaborate as needed with external consultants and partners such as legal counsel, benefits brokers, and/or specialized training providers to support specific HR needs.
QUALIFICATIONS
Education & Experience
- Minimum of 8-12 years of progressive HR experience with a strong focus on employee relations and HR administration, including at least 3 years in a leadership or managerial level role.
- High level of integrity and discretion in handling sensitive and confidential information.
- Compassionate and empathetic approach to employee issues with the ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
- Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field preferred. A Master’s degree or HR certification (e.g., SHRM-CP, SHRM-SCP, PHR, SPHR) is a plus.
Skills & Competencies
- Solutions oriented and forward-thinking, with the ability to see the bigger picture, anticipate precedential impacts, and understand the broader context to effectively identify issues and craft scalable solutions.
- Skilled at effectively challenging and inspiring others to embrace vision and strategies. An approachable and trusted confidant, able to encourage confidence to receive “unfiltered truth” about potential problems at all levels.
- Excellent interpersonal and negotiation skills with a strong understanding of federal, state, and local employment laws.
- Strong problem-solving and conflict-resolution abilities paired with meticulous organizational skills, attention to detail, and the capacity to manage multiple priorities under tight deadlines.
- Proficiency with HRIS (Human Resources Information Systems) and Microsoft Office Suite.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to concisely and accurately present information to employees and senior leadership.
- High degree of integrity and discretion in handling sensitive and confidential information.
Mission Alignment
- Demonstrates a deep commitment to Green-Wood’s mission to preserve history, connect people with nature, and serve communities through cultural, educational, and commemorative initiatives.
- Exhibits a strong work ethic and professional demeanor with dedication to institutional sustainability through stewardship and a commitment to public service.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Mission Statement
Green-Wood is a living cemetery that brings people closer to the world as it is and was, by memorializing the dead and bringing to life the art, history, and natural beauty of New York City.
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
Green-Wood is an equal employment opportunity employer that prohibits discrimination against applicants and employees on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, gender, national origin or ancestry, age, disability, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, domestic partner status, military or veteran status, citizenship status, and any other basis or characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law.
Physical Demands/Working Conditions
Work is generally performed in a standard office environment with periodic on-site visits/work in the field. Ability to operate office equipment, printers and related software. No heavy lifting required.
Pay Transparency Clause
As required by New York City law, the salary range for this position is disclosed in this job posting. The actual salary offered may vary based on factors such as experience, education, and qualifications.
HOW WE SUPPORT YOU
We offer a comprehensive benefits package to support and recognize your valuable contributions.
- Salary Range: $140,000 – $160,000
- Generous paid time off (holidays, vacation, and personal leave)
- Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance.
- Employer-paid life insurance
- Optional insurance plans (life, disability, etc.).
- Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
- Commuter benefits to help with transportation costs.
- Free on-site parking
READY TO APPLY?
If you’re a human resources professional looking to make a difference in an organization rich in history, culture, and impact, we’d love to hear from you! Apply now and be part of Green-Wood’s mission to preserve the past, enrich the present, and inspire the future!
To apply, email your resume and cover letter to HRDirectorSearch@green-wood.com
Email subject line: Human Resources Director: [Your Last Name]
Manager of Retail and Venue Operations (Full-Time Role)
Position: Manager of Retail and Venue Operations
Department: External Relations
Reports to: Senior Director of External Relations
Location: The Green-Wood Cemetery, Brooklyn, NY
FLSA Status: EXEMPT
Schedule: Full-time role; 40 hours a week. Schedule will evolve to meet operational needs. During the pre-launch phase, hours will primarily be Monday–Friday, 9am–5pm, to support planning, training, and cross-departmental coordination. Following the opening of the Green-House, the schedule will shift to a more flexible structure, including regular weekend and evening coverage aligned with retail and rental operations, as well as occasional holidays as required.
Compensation: $80,000–$90,000 (commensurate with experience).
Date: February 13, 2026–until filled
ABOUT GREEN-WOOD
The Green-Wood Cemetery is the permanent residence of more than 580,000 individuals and a beloved public destination, welcoming nearly 500,000 visitors annually. Spanning 478 acres of historic grounds, grand architecture, and world-class statuary, Green-Wood is more than a cemetery—it is a National Historic Landmark, an accredited arboretum, an outdoor museum, and a cultural hub rooted in the heart of Brooklyn.
As a living cemetery, Green-Wood blends preservation, nature, and community engagement with innovation. Our work spans a wide range of programming—from the arts and education to environmental stewardship, workforce development, restoration, and scholarly research. Through it all, we remain deeply committed to honoring our mission and treating every visitor and family with care, dignity, and respect.
ABOUT THE OPPORTUNITY
The Green-Wood Cemetery is a National Historic Landmark, accredited arboretum, cultural institution, and active cemetery spanning 478 acres in Brooklyn. As Green-Wood continues to expand how it welcomes, serves, and engages the public beyond its historic grounds, it will open The Green-House at Green-Wood in April 2026—a new building designed to serve as a welcoming front door for retail, visitor services, and private rentals.
The Manager of Retail and Venue Operations plays a critical role in launching and shaping this next phase of public engagement. This position offers the opportunity to build systems, set service standards, and lead retail and rental operations in a new and evolving space.
This role is ideal for a thoughtful operator who enjoys creating structure from the ground up, balancing strategy with hands-on leadership, and delivering exceptional visitor experiences aligned with Green-Wood’s mission.
WHAT YOU WILL DO
- Lead the strategy, planning, and day-to-day execution for retail and earned-revenue operations, including merchandise, flowers, seasonal pop-ups, and visitor food and beverage offerings, with accountability for performance tracking, forecasting, and continuous improvement.
- Oversee private event rentals at the Green-House and select Cemetery venues, including coordination and partnership with Green-Wood’s exclusive caterer and ensuring high-quality execution from inquiry through close-out and after care.
- Manage retail merchandising, including setting standards, tracking inventory and sales, overseeing reorders, and monitoring budgets, invoicing, and performance reporting.
- Direct front-of-house visitor operations and supervising part-time Welcome Associates to ensure consistent service delivery, on-site readiness, and serving as the escalation point for service or operational issues.
- Establish and refine workflows, service standards, and operational systems for retail and rentals in a new visitor-facing facility.
- Maintain the master calendar for Green-House activities and coordinate schedules across departments to ensure alignment and operational continuity.
- Drive long-term growth and expansion of retail and rental services across the Cemetery campus and website, including developing merchandise tied to signature public programs.
- Exercise sound independent judgment in planning, prioritizing, and executing retail and venue operations in sync with departmental goals.
- This role is expected to evolve as Green-House operations scale and may include expanded leadership responsibilities, including supervision of an additional full-time staff.
WHAT YOU WILL NEED TO SUCCEED
We’re seeking a candidate who brings:
- 3–5 years of experience in visitor services, retail operations, hospitality management, or a related public-facing role.
- Strong operational knowledge of retail, visitor services, and/or event operations, including inventory management, purchasing, POS systems, budgeting, and reporting.
- Demonstrated experience supervising part-time or hourly staff and supporting consistent, high-quality customer service.
- Proven ability to build workflows, service standards, and operational systems in a new or evolving environment.
- Strong organizational, planning, and problem-solving skills.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to work effectively across departments and with external vendors.
- Customer-focused approach with a demonstrated ability to create welcoming, inclusive visitor experiences aligned with institutional values.
- Familiarity with New York City’s cultural, hospitality, or historic landscape.
- Valid driver’s license (or the ability to obtain one prior to start).
A PLUS IF YOU BRING…
- Bachelor’s degree in hospitality management, business administration, arts administration, or a related field (or equivalent professional experience).
- Experience with platforms such as Shopify and/or Raiser’s Edge.
- Prior work in a nonprofit, cultural, or mission-driven organization
HOW WE’LL MEASURE SUCCESS
Success in this role will be measured by:
- A smooth and successful launch of retail and rental operations at the Green-House.
- Consistent, high-quality visitor experiences and customer service.
- Effective retail performance, inventory management, and reporting.
- Well-coordinated private events that meet Green-Wood’s quality standards.
- Strong collaboration across departments and with external vendors.
- Readiness to scale operations as Green-House programming expands.
WHY YOU’LL LIKE WORKING HERE
- A one-of-a-kind workplace where history, art, nature, and public life intersect.
- The opportunity to help launch and shape the Green-House, a major new public-facing space and a cornerstone of Green-Wood’s future.
- A collaborative, mission-driven culture that values thoughtful service, creativity, and operational excellence.
- A role with real ownership—where your ideas help set standards, systems, and visitor experience practices from the ground up.
- The chance to work across departments and contribute to an institution that balances preservation, innovation, and community connection.
HOW WE SUPPORT YOU
Green-Wood offers a comprehensive benefits package to support and recognize your contributions:
- Salary Range: $80,000–$90,000
- Benefits and Perks include:
- Generous paid time off (holidays, vacation, personal leave)
- Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance
- Employer-paid life insurance
- Optional insurance plans (life, disability, etc.)
- Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
- Commuter benefits
- Free on-site parking
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Mission Statement
Green-Wood is a living cemetery that brings people closer to the world as it is and was, by memorializing the dead and bringing to life the art, history, and natural beauty of New York City.
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement & Pay Transparency
Green-Wood is an equal employment opportunity employer that prohibits discrimination against applicants and employees on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, gender, national origin or ancestry, age, disability, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, domestic partner status, military or veteran status, citizenship status, and any other basis or characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law.
As required by NYC law, the salary range for this position is disclosed. Actual salary will depend on experience, education, and qualifications.
Physical Demands/Working Conditions
This role involves working in a public-facing environment, occasional outdoor walking across the Cemetery’s hilly terrain, and the ability to lift and move light materials. Evening and weekend work is required during events.
READY TO APPLY?
If you’re excited by the opportunity to shape visitor experiences, build thoughtful retail and service operations, and help launch a new public-facing space at a historic cultural institution, we’d love to hear from you. Apply now to play a key role in bringing the Green-House to life and advancing Green-Wood’s mission to preserve the past, enrich the present, and inspire the future.
Please submit your resume and cover letter to hiring@green-wood.com with the subject line: Manager of Retail and Venue Operations: [Your Last Name].
Horticulturist (Full-Time Role)
Position: Horticulturist
Department: Landscape (Cemetery Operations)
Reports to: Director of Living Collections and Curator
Location: The Green-Wood Cemetery, Brooklyn, NY
FLSA Status: NON-EXEMPT
Work Schedule: FULL-TIME ROLE
Terms: This position is governed by the collective bargaining agreement (CBA) between The Green-Wood Cemetery and Teamsters Local 810 and subject to its probationary provisions.)
Compensation: $39.98/hour; 40 hours per week (compensation is governed by the CBA)
Date: February 13, 2026–until filled
ABOUT GREEN-WOOD
The Green-Wood Cemetery is the permanent residence of more than 580,000 individuals and a beloved public destination, welcoming nearly 500,000 visitors annually. Spanning 478 acres of historic grounds, grand architecture, and world-class statuary, Green-Wood is more than a cemetery—it is a National Historic Landmark, an accredited arboretum, an outdoor museum, and a cultural hub rooted in the heart of Brooklyn.
As a living cemetery, Green-Wood blends preservation, nature, and community engagement with innovation. Our work spans a wide range of programming—from the arts and education to environmental stewardship, workforce development, restoration, and scholarly research. Through it all, we remain deeply committed to honoring our mission and treating every visitor and family with care, dignity, and respect.
ABOUT THE DEPARTMENT
Green-Wood’s Department of Landscape oversees the preservation and care of its historic 478-acre grounds. The team manages all aspects of the landscape, including monuments, the arboretum, grasslands, gardens, and water bodies. Through integrated conservation practices and climate-adaptive strategies, the department protects historic features, supports biodiversity, and enhances ecosystem services. Combining expertise in historic preservation, ecological management, and horticulture best practices, the department safeguards the long-term health, beauty, and integrity of Green-Wood for generations to come.
ABOUT THE ROLE
Reporting to the Director of Living Collections and Curator, the Horticulturist supports the Department of Landscape’s mission to expand plant diversity, enrich habitat, and sustain the ecological health of Green-Wood’s 478-acre grounds. The role maintains ornamental gardens, naturalized plantings, wildflower meadows, and woody collections while contributing to comprehensive year-round landscape stewardship. This is a hands-on, field-based position requiring daily outdoor work across varied terrain.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES
Plant Care:
- Maintain trees, shrubs, perennials, annuals, and bulbs across assigned garden areas.
- Perform seasonal horticultural tasks, including pruning, weeding, mulching, planting, removals, watering, soil remediation, and greenhouse care.
- Monitor plant health using Integrated Pest Management (IPM) principles, including scouting, identifying, and reporting pest or disease issues.
- Promptly report plant health concerns, landscape damage, or safety issues to supervisors.
Maintenance & Tools:
- Maintain clean, safe, and well-groomed planting beds and garden areas by clearing litter and debris.
- Inspect, maintain, and repair landscape features such as tree protection, vine support, horticultural signage, and garden paths to ensure safe, functional conditions.
- Safely operate and maintain horticultural hand tools and power equipment, including chainsaws, in accordance with training and safety standards.
- Utilize mobile applications (e.g., ESRI WorkForce) and basic computer tools for recordkeeping, documentation, communication, and training.
Collaboration & Support:
- Support snow and ice removal operations as assigned.
- Assist the Tree Crew arborists as a ground crew member during large tree work as needed.
- Provide guidance to seasonal staff and interns on horticultural best practices and safety procedures.
- Support volunteers during public horticulture events and educational programs, including setup and breakdown of tools and materials, and providing instruction and safety oversight.
- Engage with visitors by answering basic horticulture questions and representing Green-Wood’s mission and care practices.
- Participate actively in team meetings to align priorities and support department-wide coordination.
- This position does not supervise permanent staff but may provide guidance to seasonal employees, interns, and volunteers.
QUALIFICATIONS
We’re seeking a candidate who brings:
- 2–3 years of professional horticulture experience, preferably in public gardens, historic landscapes, or urban green spaces.
- Solid knowledge of planting design, soil health, and plant identification (particularly Northeast U.S. flora).
- Familiarity with Integrated Pest Management (IPM) principles and pest monitoring practices.
- Proficiency with horticultural tools, techniques, and equipment operation.
- Excellent organizational, time management, and communication skills.
- Ability to perform physically demanding outdoor work in all weather conditions, including the use of ladders and navigating uneven terrain.
- Valid New York State driver’s license required and must be maintained throughout employment. Individuals operating cemetery vehicles must provide proof of a valid license and a minimum five-year driving history for insurance purposes.
- Completion of an approved 8-hour NYSDEC pesticide apprentice course is required within 90 days of hire.
WORKING CONDITIONS
- Work is performed primarily outdoors across Green-Wood’s 478-acre landscape in varying weather conditions, including heat, cold, rain, and snow.
- Frequent exposure to soil, pollen, insects, fertilizers, and horticultural chemicals.
- Requires bending, lifting, kneeling, and extended periods of standing or walking on uneven terrain.
- Required to wear protective clothing and equipment and adhere to all safety and environmental protocols.
- Occasional weekend, holiday, or early-morning assignments may be required to support seasonal planting, public programs, or weather-related response work.
PERFORMANCE STANDARDS
Success across the Department of Landscape — including the Horticulturist role — is measured by the following shared metrics:
- Landscape Stewardship: Contribute to timely and high-quality care of turf, trees, meadows, gardens, and living collections, with accurate documentation through GIS and related systems to preserve Green-Wood’s historic landscape integrity.
- Ecological Advancement: Support and implement biodiversity, sustainability, and climate-adaptive strategies that enhance ecosystem services and strengthen long-term environmental resilience across the 478-acre landscape.
- Team Excellence & Collaboration: Participate in ongoing training to maintain compliance with safety regulations and horticultural best practices. Contribute to a culture of collaboration by proactively solving challenges and working effectively across departments.
- Public Engagement & Representation: Engage respectfully with visitors, address public questions or concerns thoughtfully, and contribute to a positive community experience that reflects Green-Wood’s mission of care, education, and stewardship.
- Operational Effectiveness: Promote efficiency in daily workflows, support responsible resource use, and contribute to the overall effectiveness of horticultural operations through organized documentation, communication, and coordination.
DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS
The Horticulturist serves as a skilled practitioner in plant care, garden maintenance, and ecological landscape management within Green-Wood’s Department of Landscape. The role blends technical horticultural expertise with environmental stewardship, supporting the health, beauty, and sustainability of Green-Wood’s living collections while advancing the institution’s mission of preservation, education, and community engagement.
READY TO APPLY?
Submit a resume and brief cover letter highlighting relevant horticultural experience and interest in working within a historic landscape setting to hiring@green-wood.com with the subject line: Horticulturist: [Your Last Name].
SELECTION PROCESS
Qualified candidates may participate in a multi-step evaluation process, including:
- Interview with Horticulture leadership.
- Written examination (70% minimum to advance).
- Practical skills assessment (plant identification, tool proficiency, applied techniques).
UNION & EMPLOYMENT CONDITIONS
This position is governed by the collective bargaining agreement (CBA) between The Green-Wood Cemetery and Teamsters Local 810. All employment terms—including wages, hours, benefits, seniority, and probation—are governed by the CBA.
New employees are subject to a 60-day probationary period under the CBA. During this period, the Department conducts a structured practical evaluation to assess applied skills and safety practices. This evaluation does not supersede or modify the CBA.
Employment is contingent upon verification of required credentials, successful completion of required evaluations, and compliance with all applicable safety, training, and union requirements.
EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY & PAY TRANSPARENCY
Green-Wood is an equal employment opportunity employer that prohibits discrimination against applicants and employees on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, gender, national origin or ancestry, age, disability, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, domestic partner status, military or veteran status, citizenship status, and any other basis or characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law.
WordPress Web Developer (Contract)
Position: WordPress Web Developer (Contract)
Department: External Relations
Reports to: Senior Director of External Relations
Anticipated Start Date: Immediate
Location: Remote, with availability during business hours (9am–5pm EST)
Estimated Time Commitment: Approximately 10 hours per week, with occasional weeks up to 15 hours as needed.
Pay Range: $80–$100 per hour, commensurate with experience. Additional hours beyond the monthly scope, if needed, may be billed separately.
Contract Terms: This position is structured as a 1099 independent contractor engagement. Successful candidates will be required to complete a W-9 as part of the onboarding process.
ABOUT GREEN-WOOD
The Green-Wood Cemetery is the permanent residence of more than 580,000 individuals and a beloved public destination, welcoming nearly 500,000 visitors annually. Spanning 478 acres of historic grounds, grand architecture, and world-class statuary, Green-Wood is more than a cemetery—it is a National Historic Landmark, an accredited arboretum, an outdoor museum, and a cultural hub rooted in the heart of Brooklyn.
As a living cemetery, Green-Wood blends preservation, nature, and community engagement with innovation. Our work spans a wide range of programming—from the arts and education to environmental stewardship, workforce development, restoration, and scholarly research. Through it all, we remain deeply committed to honoring our mission and treating every visitor and family with care, dignity, and respect.
ABOUT THE OPPORTUNITY
The Green-Wood Cemetery is seeking an experienced WordPress web developer to manage and improve our website over a 3–6-month contract period. This role is focused on the day-to-day health, performance, and usability of our WordPress site, as well as coordinating cross-platform updates related to events and e-commerce. The role is open to independent developers as well as firms or agencies.
This partner will manage our website and related platforms, build and maintain pages and templates, build and publish event listings, and address ongoing technical needs as they arise. The contract is intended as an initial engagement, with the possibility of a longer-term working relationship.
We’re looking for a reliable, proactive collaborator who can keep our site running smoothly while identifying and implementing practical improvements. Ideal candidates bring strong WordPress experience, solid front-end development skills, and the ability to communicate clearly with non-technical teams.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
- Manage the day-to-day technical health of Green-Wood’s WordPress website, including performance, reliability, content integrity, accessibility, security best practices, and creative judgment.
- Build, maintain, and deploy landing pages, page templates, and large seasonal or one-off program releases within the site calendar, including creating and linking event listings between WordPress and Eventbrite.
- Perform ongoing maintenance, updates, and coordination with third-party tools and integrations, such as Zapier, Eventbrite, and Shopify, to ensure reliability and data consistency.
- Troubleshoot, test, and resolve site issues across browsers and devices with an emphasis on stability and user experience.
- Documentation processes and changes, and provide periodic progress updates to support transparency and continuity across teams.
- Contribute technical guidance to front-end design discussions, including back-end implications, feasibility, and long-term maintainability.
- Assess the current site setup and inherited codebase against WordPress best practices and recommend prioritized, practical improvements that balance performance, sustainability, and institutional needs.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
- A minimum of 3 years of professional experience working with WordPress, including customized themes and integrations with third-party platforms (such as Eventbrite and Shopify) to support real-world production environments.
- Demonstrated experience managing live production websites, with an understanding of stability, uptime, and change management.
- Proven ability to troubleshoot and resolve issues related to WordPress plug-ins, themes, and updates.
- Strong working knowledge of front-end web technologies (HTML, CSS, JavaScript, PHP) as they apply within the WordPress ecosystem.
- Experience with performance optimization, quality assurance, and debugging across modern browsers and devices.
- Working knowledge of on-page SEO principles and WordPress performance best practices.
- Experience improving landing page performance using basic analytics, testing, or optimization tools, with an eye toward user behavior and conversion.
- Familiarity with design systems or component-based workflows, and the ability to work within established visual and structural guidelines.
- Strong communication skills and comfort collaborating with non-technical stakeholders across departments.
- Familiarity with ADA compliance and accessibility best practices, and a commitment to building inclusive digital experiences.
- Availability to be on-site occasionally, as needed, to support coordination or time-sensitive launches.
- Experience working with legacy cultural or historical institutions is a strong plus.
READY TO APPLY?
Bring your experience, insight, and energy to a mission-driven institution with a living history and a bold future. This is an opportunity for an agency or solo developer to collaborate with a thoughtful, cross-functional team and make a meaningful impact on a high-traffic, public-facing website that serves hundreds of thousands of visitors each year.
To apply, please email your materials to hiring@green-wood.com with the subject line: WordPress Web Developer: [Your Last Name]
YOUR SUBMISSION SHOULD INCLUDE
A resume and brief cover letter explaining why this role—and Green-Wood in particular—resonates with you.
OPTIONAL
Feel free to include any of the items below to showcase your experience and approach:
- Examples of Active WordPress Work
- Links to 2–3 WordPress sites you actively maintained (not just built).
- A brief description of your role on each site (e.g., solo developer, agency team member, long-term maintainer).
- Problem-Solving in Practice
- One example of a performance or stability issue you diagnosed and resolved, or
- One example of a messy or inherited codebase you improved, including what you changed and why.
- Walk Us Through Your Thinking
- A short Loom video or written walkthrough of one project that demonstrates how you approach challenges, tradeoffs, and decisions.