Job Description
Description Why Cheekwood? Working at Cheekwood Estate & Gardens offers you the opportunity to work for one of the most beautiful places in Nashville. Formerly the home of Mabel and Leslie Cheek, Cheekwood now serves the public as a botanical garden, arboretum, and museum with period rooms and art galleries. At Cheekwood, you will have the opportunity to explore a wide range of roles tailored to your skills and interests. Whether you are passionate about horticulture, art curation, historical preservation, or one of our many other career opportunities, you would have the chance to thrive and make a meaningful impact here. Working in such a place that cherishes its rich history, vibrant art scene, and serene gardens offers a unique blend of fulfillment and inspiration. You will find yourself in a supportive environment where every day brings new opportunities for personal and professional growth, amidst the backdrop of picturesque settings. What does the Cheekwood Garden Team do and why join? At Cheekwood, the gardening team is responsible for the care and maintenance of the garden's plants and landscapes. Their tasks typically include planting and propagating a diverse array of flora, ensuring proper soil health and nutrition, watering schedules, pruning for shape and health, pest and disease management, and seasonal upkeep. Joining the gardening team at Cheekwood offers the opportunity to work with a diverse range of plants, including rare and exotic species, which can be rewarding for plant enthusiasts. We also offer a peaceful and beautiful work environment surrounded by nature, making it an attractive career for those who enjoy working outdoors and appreciate the tranquility of gardens. What will you be doing? The Irrigation & Water Feature Technician will design, install, maintain and repair automated watering systems, specialty water features (like fountains or ponds), and manage turf health to maximize water efficiency and landscape aesthetics. This role will analyze soil and plant needs, program and troubleshoot irrigation systems and optimize irrigation schedules to prevent overwatering while ensuring lush landscapes. This role will work closely with department leaders to establish best practices, coordinate garden operations, and maintain aesthetic standards. Essential Functions and Responsibilities Responsible for the overall operation and maintenance of the automatic underground irrigation system, including managing controllers and coordinating programs to balance water needs and water windows. Directly performs adjustments and repairs to sprinkler heads, lateral lines, mainlines, and electric control valves including troubleshooting, excavation, execution and clean up Manages system isolation during spring start up, winterization, and maintenance Manages clear and efficient means of reporting and documenting irrigation needs and scheduling irrigation contract services as needed Supports department management with establishing clear accountabilities for garden supervisors by area and provides appropriates support and training Responsible for the overall operation and maintenance of water features in gardens includes cleaning, in-house repairs, and overall functionality. Contacts and work closely with the facilities team if vendor repairs are necessary. Directly assists seasonal exhibitions as needed, including Blooms, Summer Exchange, Harvest, and Holiday Lights Maintains a constant awareness of the guest experience and makes every reasonable effort to ensure the safety and comfort of all persons moving throughout the Garden Understands and upholds the Cheekwood Mission, Vision, and Values and maintains great awareness and flexibility to accommodate and support organizational goals and operations Collaborates with department leadership to develop maintain and document best management practices within the ground’s maintenance function Performs other duties as assigned Requirements: At least 5+ years of irrigation, and water feature experience Proven experience managing, troubleshooting and programming diverse irrigation controllers, including WeatherTRAK, Rain Bird, and Hunter systems. Ability to repeatedly lift 25 pounds and walk/kneel/bend/stoop/perform physical labor for extended periods for extended periods of time. Valid driver's license. Complete repairs on schedule and within budgeted hours Communicate effectively and professionally with the garden team, management and vendors Work outdoors in a variety of weather conditions including heat, humidity, and cold Proper service and maintain all tools and equipment Follow all company policies and best practi