Business is blooming: In-demand jobs in the Horticulture industry

Have you ever considered turning your passion for plants into a rewarding career? Good news! The Horticulture industry in Australia is flourishing and more than 20% of the country's plants are produced right here in Victoria. Whether you want to work outdoors or you like the idea of getting paid to make a positive impact on the planet, there’s never been a better time to explore the Horticulture career pathways available in this growing sector.

Horticulture Careers: What roles are in demand?

The horticulture industry is a diverse industry that covers a wide range of rewarding roles, ranging from landscape design to plant conservation. The nursery industry, in particular, plays a pivotal role in offering diverse opportunities for professional growth and connecting individuals with global advancements in horticultural technologies. Here are just a few of the exciting career opportunities waiting for you:

Groundskeeper:

Groundskeepers play a vital role in maintaining sports fields, golf courses, botanical gardens and other outdoor recreational facilities. From planting trees to sports turf management, this hands-on role offers plenty of opportunities to work outdoors and keep our green spaces in top condition.

Additionally, a Natural Landscape Manager is crucial in maintaining natural landscapes, focusing on conservation and landscape design to ensure the sustainability and beauty of our environment.

Retail Nursery Workers and Nursery Assistants:

These positions are essential in supporting nursery operations, assisting customers in selecting the ideal plants for their needs, offering expert guidance on plant care and maintenance and ensuring a welcoming and well-organised retail environment.

Key duties include maintaining plant health through watering and pruning, processing sales transactions, restocking inventory and contributing to visual merchandising and display design. Strong customer service skills, a passion for plants and a basic understanding of horticulture are essential for success in these roles.

While a Certificate II in Horticulture AHC20422 or related experience is typically beneficial, enthusiasm for plants and the ability to create a positive shopping experience are equally important. For those looking to grow their career, there are opportunities to advance into management roles or pursue further education, such as a floristry course.

Conservationist and Plant Propagator:

Join the efforts to preserve our planet as a plant conservationist. In this rewarding role, you’ll work to protect endangered plant species, conduct research on plant conservation methods and collaborate with governments to safeguard our natural heritage.

Additionally, consider the role of a plant pathologist, who studies plant diseases and plays a crucial part in maintaining plant health and productivity, further contributing to conservation efforts.

Garden Designer and Landscape Architect:

Dive into the world of landscape design and construction. From creating stunning outdoor spaces to implementing sustainable gardening practices, this hands-on role allows you to unleash your creativity while shaping the environment around you.

You will also have the skills to be your own boss and run your own horticultural and garden maintenance business. Additionally, the role of a landscape architect is crucial in designing sustainable and aesthetically pleasing outdoor spaces.

Greenhouse Manager:

Greenhouse managers oversee the operations of greenhouse facilities, including crop production, environmental control and pest management. They are responsible for maintaining the best growing conditions and maximising crop yields while following sustainable farming practices.

Additionally, the role of a grower integration manager is crucial for integrating different aspects of horticultural practices, ensuring seamless operations and effective management within the industry.

Plant Production Manager:

A Plant Production Manager oversees nursery or greenhouse operations, ensuring efficient plant production. This role requires strong leadership, organisation and expertise in plant biology and production techniques. Key responsibilities include managing staff, developing production plans, monitoring plant health (including pest and disease control) and sourcing high-quality plant materials and supplies.

Having a Certificate III in Horticulture AHC30722, along with relevant experience, can be advantageous, combined with strong communication and problem-solving skills.

Arborist:

Arborists are trained professionals who care for trees through pruning, planting and removal. This role requires physical strength and expertise in tree biology and arboriculture. Responsibilities include trimming trees for health and structure, planting and transplanting, removing trees and stumps, assessing tree risks and operating specialised equipment like aerial lifts and chippers.

Pursuing a career as an Arborist can be greatly enhanced with a Certificate III in Arboriculture AHC30820 (Climbing Arborist Non-traineeship) or a related qualification. While not mandatory, formal training boosts skills and job prospects. Strong physical skills and a passion for tree care are essential for success in this field.

Get started with Melbourne Polytechnic

At Melbourne Polytechnic, we're committed to equipping aspiring horticulturists with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in the industry. Our comprehensive horticulture courses provide hands-on training in a variety of areas, including:

Horticulture:

Certificate IV in Horticulture AHC40422:

Take your horticulture career to the next level with our Certificate IV in Horticulture AHC40422, which covers advanced topics such as plant nutrition, revegetation and specialist machinery operation.

Diploma of Allied Horticulture Science 22650VIC:

Deepen your scientific understanding of horticulture with our Diploma of Allied Horticulture Science 22650VIC. Focus on plant biology and innovative horticultural techniques.

Certificate III in Parks and Garden AHC31021 - Apprenticeship:

Learn from industry experts and develop the skills needed to create and maintain vibrant green spaces in parks, gardens and recreational areas with our Certificate III in Parks and Gardens AHC31021 (Apprenticeship).

Landscaping:

Certificate III in Landscape Construction AHC30921 - Apprenticeship:

Gain practical experience in garden design and construction with the Certificate III in Landscape Construction AHC30921 (Apprenticeship). Learn from industry experts and develop the skills needed to excel in landscaping projects.

Certificate IV in Landscape Design AHC42421:

Explore landscape design principles with our Certificate IV in Landscape Design AHC42421. This course covers design concepts and project management for creating beautiful outdoor spaces.

Floristry:

Certificate II in Floristry SFL20115 (Assistant):

Begin your floristry journey with our Certificate II in Floristry SFL20115 (Assistant). This course provides foundational skills in flower arranging and retail floristry operations.

Certificate III in Floristry SFL30115:

Unleash your creativity with our Certificate III in Floristry SFL30115. Learn floral design techniques and customer service skills to create stunning arrangements for various occasions.

Sports Turf Management:

Certificate III in Sports Turf Management AHC31319 - Non-Apprenticeship:

Specialise in turf management with our Certificate III in Sports Turf Management AHC31319 (Non-apprenticeship). Learn techniques for maintaining sports fields and golf courses.

Diploma of Sports Turf Management AHC51024:

Advance in turf management with our Diploma of Sports Turf Management AHC51024. Gain expertise in turf science and leadership skills for managing large-scale turf facilities.

Beekeeping:

Certificate III in Beekeeping AHC31824:

Embark on a unique journey into the world of bees with our Certificate III in Beekeeping AHC31824. Gain hands-on experience in hive management, honey production and bee health, while understanding the vital role bees play in our ecosystem.

Arboriculture:

Diploma of Arboriculture AHC50520:

Elevate your arboriculture skills with our Diploma of Arboriculture AHC50520. This course offers advanced knowledge in tree care, risk assessment and sustainable practices, preparing you for leadership roles within the arboriculture industry.