Employment Opportunities
Director of Major and Planned Gifts
Position Title: Director of Major and Planned Gifts Department: Development
Reports to: Chief Development Officer Position Type: Full Time, Exempt
Pay Range: $100,000 to $130,000 annually Job Level: Experienced Level
The Los Angeles County Arboretum & Botanic Garden’s mission is to cultivate our natural, horticultural, and historic resources for learning, enjoyment, and inspiration. This vibrant gem is the result of an exciting partnership between the nonprofit Los Angeles Arboretum Foundation (LAAF) and the County of Los Angeles Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR). As it celebrates its 77th year, the Arboretum invites you to explore its stunning 127 acres, brimming with diverse plant life and captivating history. Join over 500,000 passionate and enthusiastic visitors each year and immerse yourself in a world of beauty, learning, and wonder.
Position Summary:
The Director of Major and Planned Gifts is a full-time, onsite position that will work closely with the Chief Development Officer (CDO) and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) to create and implement a highly visible and effective planned gift program. In addition, the Director of Major and Planned Gifts will also cultivate, engage, solicit, and steward new and existing donors to increase essential philanthropic support.
Essential Duties:
- Direct and implement the Arboretum’s Major Gifts and Planned Giving programs in support of ongoing operations, programs, capital projects, and endowment growth. Assist CDO with establishing current year and long-term goals and objectives, strategic planning, and growth plans for the Arboretum’s fundraising programs.
- Develop and steward a portfolio of donors by identifying, qualifying, cultivating, soliciting, and stewarding them to contribute major gifts ($10,000+) and planned gifts. In collaboration with the CDO, support the development of metrics and tracking of key performance indicators to ensure the success of the Development Plan.
- Launch and implement an expanded program to attract and educate Planned Gift donors, to grow the Arboretum’s Samuel Ayres Legacy Society, and ensure a pipeline of future legacy gifts. This includes development of marketing materials related to planned gifts and blended gifts via print and digital communications.
- Develop and execute an ongoing major gift, planned giving, and stewardship program that includes in-person and phone contact along with electronic and print communication to maintain and deepen relationships. As appropriate, coordinate communication approaches with other Development, Marketing, and Senior Staff.
- Collaborate effectively with Senior Staff and Trustees on planning and execution, including development of gift proposals and solicitation in order to create effective donor cultivation.
- Develop and maintain an understanding of all Arboretum programs and priorities to create and execute customized solicitation strategies that best integrate donor interests with the strategic objectives of the Arboretum.
- Coordinate the scheduling of donor visits, preparing all parties as appropriate.
- Stay current on developments within the field of Philanthropy and Planned Giving to bring value to donor relationships.
- Support the growth of the Benefactor program and participate in planning and communication; attend Benefactor events to further engage and steward Arboretum supporters.
- Support the Development Department in special fundraising initiatives that may develop from time to time.
- Assume other duties and responsibilities as assigned.
Qualifications:
These specifications are general guidelines based upon the minimum ordinarily considered essential to satisfactory performance in this position. Individual skills and abilities may result in some deviation from these guidelines.
The following is required to effectively perform in this position:
- Proven success in raising major gifts ($10,000+), managing donor portfolios, and securing planned gift commitments.
- Demonstrated excellence in oral and written communications to enhance positive relations with prospects and donors.
- Ability to write reports, business correspondence, and proposals in a clear, compelling, and authentic voice.
- Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to connect and relate to donors in an authentic, relationship-driven approach.
- Collaborative team player with the ability to learn quickly in a fast-paced environment.
- Ability to effectively present information and respond to questions across all stakeholder groups from donors to staff to external audiences. Ability to effectively represent the organization in public forums.
- Must be technologically savvy, with computer skills to meet the needs of the job, preferably including Blackbaud’s Altru or other Customer Relationship Management software; Microsoft Office Suite including Word, Excel, Publisher, Outlook.
- Current knowledge of fundraising procedures and best practices.
- A customer orientation, providing a level of concierge care to our highest-level supporters while maintaining information in confidence.
- A positive, friendly disposition to represent the Arboretum and the ability to collaborate with others.
Education and Experience:
- Bachelor’s degree or equivalent and five years of effective performance in a Major Gift/Planned Gift role or successful progression into that role.
- A valid Driver’s License, car, and personal automobile liability insurance or the ability to utilize an alternative method of transportation needed to perform job-related essential duties that may include offsite donor and donor prospect meetings.
- The Director of Major and Planned Gifts must be able to perform this job safely, without endangering the health or safety of him/herself or others
Supervisory Responsibility:
This position does not currently have supervisory responsibility.
Working Conditions:
The working environment for this position is a shared office that is clean and comfortable. It may include some minor annoyances such as noise, odors, and drafts. This position is in a non-confined, office-type environment in which he or she is free to move about at will.
Physical Activity:
In the course of performing this work, the Director of Major and Planned Gifts will spend the majority of the time sitting, speaking, and listening with significant computer work and regular telephone work. He or she may be required to lift up to 15 lbs. (i.e. office supplies, files, event supplies, etc.).
Interested? Please apply and submit your cover letter and resume here!
Visitor Services Associate Lead
Position Title: Visitor Services Associate Lead
Position Type: Full-time – Hourly, Non-exempt
Location: Onsite
Work Schedule: Availability on Mondays and select holidays is required. The schedule may vary based on the needs of the Foundation.
Pay Range: $22-$24/hour
About Us
The Arboretum is a 127-acre botanical garden and historical site in the heart of the historic Rancho Santa Anita in the San Gabriel Valley. More than 500,000 guests visit annually from around the world. Our mission is to cultivate our natural, horticultural, and historic resources for learning, enjoyment, and inspiration.
Position Summary:
The Los Angeles Arboretum Foundation is seeking a nature-loving and people-oriented Visitor Service’s Associate Lead to deliver exceptional service to guests, members, volunteers, and all who visit the Arboretum. The ideal candidate is welcoming, attentive, and enjoys helping others engage with a beautiful outdoor environment.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
The Visitor Services Lead works under the direct guidance of the Visitor Services Manager.
Essential job duties include, but are not limited to:
• Create a welcoming environment for all Arboretum guests through excellent communication and hospitality.
• Greet guests, provide information on memberships, programs, garden features, and season highlights, such as flowers in bloom, fall colors, birds, wildlife in the area, tours (both walking and tram) and historic sites.
• Process ticketing and admission using scanners, a cash register and our current POS (Point of sale) system, Altru.
• Maintain a complete understanding of department-specific and institute policies and procedures.
• Respond calmly and appropriately to emergencies and security situations.
• Support with group ticket sales and special events when needed.
• Assist with preparing daily deposits.
• Act as liaison between VS department and volunteers.
• Act as supervisor if needed or when manager is not present.
Required Skills and Experience
• Prior cashier or customer service experience, ideally in a nonprofit, museum, cultural institution, or similar setting.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills; ability to work with diverse audiences.
• Adept at engaging, assisting and providing service to all visitors at point of entry.
• Maintain effective interaction by answering questions, orienting visitors through the property and resolving issues.
• Ability to use technology to process admissions, verify membership, and manage guest flow.
• Knowledge of information databases and POS systems.
• Experience handling phone and email communications professionally.
• Excellent writing and verbal communication skills.
• Team player with strong problem-solving and multitasking skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Outlook, and Google Docs; intermediate Excel skills helpful.
Preferred
• Some college coursework or bachelor’s degree preferred but not required.
• Experience working in outdoor or public garden settings is a plus.
Working Environment and Physical Requirements
• Work is conducted in both indoor and outdoor settings in various weather conditions.
• Must be able to lift and carry up to 25 pounds.
• Must be available to work weekends and holidays.
Benefits
• Benefits include paid vacation, sick leave, holiday pay, employer-sponsored health, dental, and vision insurance, an Employee Assistance Program (EAP), and a 401(k) retirement plan.
How to Apply
• Please submit your cover letter and resume to Anie Aton anie.aton@arboretum.org
Visitor Services Associate
Position Title: Visitor Services Associate
Position Type: Full-time – Hourly, Non-exempt
Location: Onsite
Work Schedule: Availability on Mondays and select holidays is required. The schedule may vary based on the needs of the Foundation.
Pay Range: $17-$20/hour
About Us
The Arboretum is a 127-acre botanical garden and historical site in the heart of the historic Rancho Santa Anita in the San Gabriel Valley. More than 500,000 guests visit annually from around the world. Our mission is to cultivate our natural, horticultural, and historic resources for learning, enjoyment, and inspiration.
Position Summary:
The Los Angeles Arboretum Foundation is seeking a nature-loving and people-oriented Visitor Service’s Associate to deliver exceptional service to guests, members, volunteers, and all who visit the Arboretum. The ideal candidate is welcoming, attentive, and enjoys helping others engage with a beautiful outdoor environment.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
The Visitor Services Associate works under the direct guidance of the Visitors Services Lead and Visitor Services Manager.
• Create a welcoming environment for all Arboretum guests through excellent communication and hospitality.
• Greet guests, provide information on memberships, programs, garden features, and season highlights, such as flowers in bloom, fall colors, birds, wildlife in the area, tours (both walking and tram) and historic sites.
• Process ticketing and admission using scanners, a cash register and our current POS (Point of sale) system, Altru.
• Maintain a complete understanding of department specific and institute policies and procedures.
• Respond calmly and appropriately to emergencies and security situations.
• Support with group ticket sales and special events when needed.
Required Skills and Experience
• Prior cashier or customer service experience, ideally in a nonprofit, museum, cultural institution, or similar setting.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills; ability to work with diverse audiences.
• Adept at engaging, assisting and providing service to all visitors at point of entry.
• Maintain effective interaction by answering questions, orienting visitors through the property and resolving issues.
• Ability to use technology to process admissions, verify membership, and manage guest flow.
• Knowledge of information databases and POS systems.
• Experience handling phone and email communications professionally.
• Excellent writing and verbal communication skills.
• Team player with strong problem-solving and multitasking skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Outlook, and Google Docs; intermediate Excel skills helpful.
Preferred
• Some college coursework or bachelor’s degree preferred but not required.
• Experience working in outdoor or public garden settings is a plus.
Working Environment and Physical Requirements
• Work is conducted in both indoor and outdoor settings in various weather conditions.
• Must be able to lift and carry up to 25 pounds.
• Must be available to work weekends and holidays.
Benefits
• Benefits include paid vacation, sick leave, holiday pay, employer-sponsored health, dental, and vision insurance, an Employee Assistance Program (EAP), and a 401(k) retirement plan.
How to Apply
• Please submit your cover letter and resume to Anie Aton anie.aton@arboretum.org
Membership Associate
Position Title: Membership Associate
Position Type: Part-time – Hourly, Non-exempt
Location: Onsite
Work Schedule:
Thursday–Tuesday General hours of operation are 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.; the position requires 18-24 hours per week, scheduled over three days. Availability on Mondays and select holidays is required. The schedule may vary based on the needs of the Foundation.
Pay Range: $17/hour
Position Summary:
The Los Angeles Arboretum Foundation is seeking a part-time Membership Associate with a strong background in customer service and membership support. This position plays a key role in welcoming members and prospective members to the garden and processing membership-related requests.
The Membership Associate will primarily focus on front-facing customer service and provide administrative support, including assembling member packets, restocking materials for events, and assisting with database maintenance. Occasional support for special membership events may be required.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
- Provide courteous and effective customer service in-person and over the phone.
- Sell and renew memberships, upsell to visitors, and promote membership upgrades to meet department sales goals.
- Maintain and update membership records in the database.
- Respond to member inquiries in a timely and professional manner.
- Communicate effectively and professionally with members of the public, co-workers, and supervisors.
- Assist the Membership Manager with various administrative and operational tasks.
- Support membership-related events and assist with preparation and logistics.
- Perform other related duties as assigned.
Qualifications:
Required Skills and Abilities:
- Excellent customer service and interpersonal skills.
- Strong attention to detail.
- Effective verbal and written communication skills.
- Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Outlook, Excel, Word, shared calendars, etc.).
- Fluent in English (written and verbal); bilingual skills (especially in Spanish or Chinese) are a plus.
Education and Experience:
- High school diploma or GED required.
- Prior experience in customer service or membership role.
- Experience with membership databases; familiarity with Altru is highly preferred.
- Experience in a nonprofit, arboretum, or museum setting is a plus.
Work Environment and Physical Requirements:
- Work is primarily performed indoors in a professional office setting.
- Must be able to communicate clearly in written and spoken English.
- Frequent use of computers and other standard office equipment.
- Ability to sit for extended periods and perform repetitive tasks such as typing.
- Must be able to lift, push, and pull up to 25 pounds as needed.
How to Apply:
To apply, please email a cover letter and resume to anie.aton@arboretum.org.
No phone calls or faxes, please. Qualified candidates will be contacted by our HR department to begin the interview process.
Gift Shop Lead
Position Type: Part-time – Hourly, Non-exempt
Location: Onsite
Work Schedule: Saturdays and Sundays, plus 1-2 additional weekdays- including some holidays. Shifts are 5 to 8 hours in duration, up to 20 hours per week to start. Hours may be subject to change based on the needs of the Foundation.
Pay Range: $20-22/hour, depending on experience
All candidates must include a cover letter and resume in order to be considered for this position.
Position Summary:
The Los Angeles Arboretum Foundation is seeking an individual with experience as a keyholder or shift supervisor in a boutique shop setting, with high standards of customer service, for our Gift Shop at the Los Angeles County Arboretum & Botanic Garden.
As a member of the Gift Shop team, the Gift Shop Lead is responsible for welcoming guests to the Gift Shop, assisting them while they shop and check out, and maintaining a pleasant environment. The Lead will spend the majority of their shift assisting customers or performing other tasks to support gift shop operations. As a keyholder, the Lead will also be responsible for opening and closing the store, so a background check will be required.
Essential Duties & Responsibilities:
- Providing warm, welcoming customer service to guests at all times
- Acting as a source of information about both the products in the shop, as well as the LA Arboretum in general
- Effectively ringing transactions up, including accurate cash-handling, processing returns and exchanges, and troubleshooting technical issues as they arise
- Monitoring stock levels and restocking products on the sales floor throughout the day
- Maintaining an organized and clean space, with daily light cleaning work
- Checking in, tagging, and merchandising new items
- Supervising and/or training Associates in operational tasks
- Opening and closing the shop, including counting multiple cash drawers and the safe
- Communicating with the public, management, co-workers, and others courteously and professionally
- Assisting the Store Manager and Assistant Manager as needed
- Other related duties as assigned
Required Skills and Abilities:
- Outstanding customer service skills
- Highly detail-oriented, especially as related to cash handling and inventory counts
- Understanding of the boutique shop environment and the soft skills needed to deliver the boutique experience
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills, including active listening.
- Proficient with iPad-based apps; prior experience with Shopify POS and barcode scanners preferred
- Consistent weekend and holiday availability is required (excluding Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day)
- Proficient in English in both written and verbal form; bilingual skills are a plus (especially Spanish, Mandarin, or Cantonese)
- Interest in or passion for the LA Arboretum and/or our mission to cultivate our natural, horticultural, and historic resources for learning, enjoyment, and inspiration
Preferred Qualifications:
- Experience with or an eye for boutique retail merchandising
- Experience with Blackbaud Altru
Education and Experience:
- Prior experience working as a keyholder in a boutique shop environment with a high standard of customer service
- Experience with cash handling and POS systems
- At least a high school degree or GED equivalent
Work Environment and Physical Requirements:
- Work is primarily performed in a temperature-controlled indoor setting with typical noise of a store setting including background music, and multiple voices speaking at once
- Regular communication- both verbal and written, including speaking and listening
- Prolonged periods standing and moving around the sales floor, including lifting/carrying items, climbing a stepstool or small ladder, and reaching above your head
- Must be able to lift, push, and pull up to 30 pounds
Benefits:
Holiday pay (if minimum hours are met), employee discount, Arboretum Membership
How to apply:
Please email a cover letter and resume to Danae Horst at gift.shop@arboretum.org with the subject line “Gift Shop Lead”. Please, no phone calls, faxes, or in-person inquiries. We will contact candidates to initiate the interview process.
Gift Shop Associate
Position Type: Part-time – Hourly, Non-exempt
Location: Onsite
Work Schedule: Saturdays and Sundays, plus 1-2 additional weekdays- including some holidays. Shifts are 5 to 8 hours in duration, up to 20 hours per week to start. Hours may be subject to change based on the needs of the Foundation.
Pay Range: $17-19/hour, depending on experience
All candidates must include a cover letter and resume in order to be considered for this position.
Position Summary:
The Los Angeles Arboretum Foundation is seeking an individual with experience in a boutique shop setting, with high standards of customer service, for our Gift Shop.
As a member of the Gift Shop team, the Gift Shop Associate is responsible for welcoming guests to the Gift Shop, assisting them while they shop and check out, and maintaining a pleasant environment. The Associate will spend the majority of their shift assisting customers or performing other tasks to support gift shop operations.
Essential Duties & Responsibilities:
- Providing warm, welcoming customer service to guests at all times
- Acting as a source of information about both the products in the shop, as well as the LA Arboretum in general
- Effectively ringing transactions up, including accurate cash-handling, processing returns and exchanges, and troubleshooting technical issues as they arise
- Monitoring stock levels and restocking products on the sales floor throughout the day
- Maintaining an organized and clean space, with daily light cleaning work
- Checking in, tagging, and merchandising new items
- Communicating with the public, management, co-workers, and others courteously and professionally
- Assisting the Store Manager and Assistant Manager as needed
- Other related duties as assigned
Required Skills and Abilities:
- Outstanding customer service skills
- Highly detail-oriented, especially as related to cash handling and inventory counts
- Understanding of the boutique shop environment and the soft skills needed to deliver the boutique experience
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills, including active listening.
- Proficient with iPad-based apps; prior experience with Shopify POS and barcode scanners preferred
- Consistent weekend and holiday availability is required (excluding Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day)
- Proficient in English in both written and verbal form; bilingual skills are a plus (especially Spanish, Mandarin, or Cantonese)
- Interest in or passion for the LA Arboretum and/or our mission to cultivate our natural, horticultural, and historic resources for learning, enjoyment, and inspiration
Preferred Qualifications:
- Experience with or an eye for boutique retail merchandising
- Experience with Blackbaud Altru
Education and Experience:
- Prior experience working in a boutique shop environment with a high standard of customer service
- Experience with cash handling and POS systems
- At least a high school degree or GED equivalent
Work Environment and Physical Requirements:
- Work is primarily performed in a temperature-controlled indoor setting with typical noise of a store setting including background music, and multiple voices speaking at once
- Regular communication- both verbal and written, including speaking and listening
- Prolonged periods of standing and moving around the sales floor, including lifting/carrying items, climbing a stepstool or small ladder, and reaching above your head
- Must be able to lift, push, and pull up to 30 pounds
Benefits:
Holiday pay (if minimum hours are met), employee discount, Arboretum Membership
How to apply:
Please email a cover letter and resume to Danae Horst at gift.shop@arboretum.org with the subject line “Gift Shop Associate”. Please, no phone calls, faxes, or in-person inquiries. We will contact candidates to initiate the interview process.
