YOUR CAREER AS A
NURSERYMAN/BOTANIST
Botany is a branch of biology that deals with the study of plants, including their structure, properties, and biochemical processes. Also included is plant taxonomy, molecular biology and classification.
Nurseryman and silviculturists are specialists in growing plants. They have developed skills in the propagation of plants from seed, from tissue culture, buds, or grafting.
Silviculturists are specialists in horticulture for forestry and may be undertaking research to improve the production from seed orchards or a forest nursery, and how to plant out young trees so that they are in optimal health to establish in the field.
SNAPSHOT INFO
Earning Potential
$55,000 – $125,000
Qualification Required
DEGREES IN SCIENCE (BOTANY), HORTICULTURE OR FORESTRY
Physically Demanding
OUTDOORS AND FIELDWORK
Absence from home
VARIES DEPENDING ON ROLE
QUALIFICATIONS/SKILLS
Botanists have completed a Bachelor of Science degree with a specialisation in Botany. Nurserymen have completed certificates or Bachelor degrees in Horticulture or Forestry. Researchers may have additional post-graduate qualifications with a specialisation in a particular area of plant propagation or plant science.
Skills required include:
- a love of plants or the outdoors
- technical aptitude
- attention to detail and care.
See the Careers NZ website for more information about science careers in forestry.
SIMILAR JOBS
CAREER PROGRESSION
Researchers can move into more senior research positions and management roles, and consultancy. There is also potential for an academic career e.g. at a university. There is often the opportunity to work overseas for varying periods of time.