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JOB DESCRIPTION: IT MANAGER

Right now, we are building something extraordinary in Seattle: an exceptional botanic garden organization that brings together the unique strengths of the Arboretum Foundation (AF) and the University of Washington Botanic Gardens (UWBG). We are joining forces to become a destination garden, exemplifying leadership in scientific research, public engagement, and inclusive access. Our vision is to be a home for discovery, a force for sustainability, and a gateway to wonder. In every visit and through every season, we’ll help people of all ages meaningfully connect with the living world of plants and how they shape our lives and our shared future.

In early 2026, the Arboretum Foundation and the UW Botanic Gardens hope to consolidate operations, bringing a staff of 50+ UWBG employees over to sit within the nonprofit structure of the Arboretum Foundation. In anticipation of this organizational change, the Arboretum Foundation is laying the groundwork necessary to build out its infrastructure and operations, including HR, IT and additional finance support. By the end of 2026, our operations will grow to support more than 60 staff working across three locations, with additional seasonal staff supporting educational horticultural programs. 

To support this transformation, the Arboretum Foundation seeks an IT Manager to oversee all aspects of the organization's information technology systems and infrastructure. This role ensures the reliable operation, security, and longevity of the Foundation's digital assets, supporting staff, volunteers, and stakeholders in achieving the Foundation's mission. The ideal candidate combines technical expertise with strong leadership skills to implement innovative IT solutions aligned with organizational goals.

This position will manage a part-time on-site IT Help Desk contractor who is responsible for hardware inventory, software support, work station set up and troubleshooting. This position will also work closely with a contracted IT Architect who will audit existing IT processes and recommend scalable, long-term solutions, designing an integration and implementation plan for a new and expanded organization. 

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Develop, implement, and maintain the new organization’s IT strategies, policies, and procedures.
  • Support day-to-day IT operations, including network administration, hardware and software management, and data security at two locations.
  • Ensure the integrity, security, and availability of data, systems, and communications infrastructure.
  • Provide technical support and training to staff and volunteers.
  • Oversee procurement, installation, and maintenance of IT equipment and software licenses.
  • Lead cybersecurity initiatives and ensure compliance with data protection regulations.
  • Collaborate with staff to identify technology needs and recommend appropriate solutions.
  • Manage relationships with external vendors and IT service providers, including UW IT.
  • Stay current with technological advancements and best practices to continually improve the organization’s IT capabilities.
  • Prepare and manage the IT budget in coordination with organizational leadership.



 

DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or related discipline, or equivalent combination of work experience and education
  • Enterprise architecture skills including application, information and infrastructure
  • 5+ years experience with data architecture connecting multiple platforms
  • 3+ years demonstrated experience project managing multiple technology solutions
  • Previous experience providing enterprise-wide, strategic technology direction and architecture vision for a large portfolio
  • Experience managing technology for a hybrid/remote workforce
  • Experience in systems planning, design, development, and maintenance
  • Excellent communication skills to both technical and non-technical audiences


 

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

Due to the nature of this position, work will primarily be on-location at the Graham Visitor Center and the Center for Urban Horticulture, with some remote work. The Graham Visitor Center is a three-story building  without an elevator. The role requires the ability to lift heavy objects (up to 20 lbs) and climb stairs to access office equipment, the kitchen area, and work stations. We understand that these physical requirements may not align  with every individual’s ability and encourage applicants to inform us of any accommodations needed to create a welcoming, safe environment for the employee. We are committed to working with the successful applicant on making necessary accommodations for the role when an offer is presented. The position involves periodic weekend and evening work.

BENEFITS

  • Generous paid vacation, sick time and holidays 
  • Medical, dental, and vision
  • Matching retirement contribution
  • Office located in the heart of a beautiful park!
  • 80+ hours of Paid Vacation (Tenure based)
  • Paid Sick Time (Per Washington State Law)
  • 10+ paid holidays
  • Medical, dental and vision insurance
  • Simple IRA Retirement Plan (Matching up to 3%)
  • Office located in the heart of a beautiful park!

TO APPLY

Please send resume and cover letter to jobs@arboretumfoundation.org. Please, no calls or in-person visits without an appointment. Position open until filled, with a priority deadline of December 15. 


 

Disclaimer:

This job description is not to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required for this position. All employees may be required to perform duties outside of their typical responsibilities from time to time, as needed, to meet the organization's ongoing needs.

EEO Statement:

The Arboretum Foundation is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment opportunities at the Arboretum Foundation are based on one's qualifications and capabilities to perform the essential functions of a particular job. All employment opportunities are provided without regard to race, creed, color, religion, sex, pregnancy or maternity, national origin, age, HIV, AIDS, and Hepatitis C status, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity; honorably discharged veteran or military status, genetic information, the presence of any sensory, mental, or physical disability or the use of a trained dog guide or service animal by a person with a disability or, any other characteristic protected by law.

This Equal Employment Opportunity policy governs all aspects of employment, including, but not limited to, recruitment, hiring, selection, job assignment, promotions, transfers, compensation, discipline, termination, layoff, access to benefits and training, and all other conditions and privileges of employment.