EMPLOYMENT, INTERNSHIP & Volunteer OPPORTUNITES

SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT OF GARDENS & FACILITIES   
CONTROLLER

PART-TIME LINE COOK 
TEMPORARY HOUSEKEEPER
TEMPORARY PART-TIME SECURITY ATTENDANT 
ON-CALL BARTENDER
CATERING SERVER
EDUCATION & PUBLIC PROGRAMS INTERNSHIP
EDUCATION & PUBLIC PROGRAMS SUMMER INTERNSHIPS  
HORTICULTURE INTERNSHIP
DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT INTERNSHIP

VOLUNTEER AT CHEEKWOOD
 

SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT OF GARDENS & FACILITIES
Reporting to the President/CEO, the Senior Vice President of Gardens & Facilities (SVP) is responsible for developing immediate and long term plans to achieve horticultural excellence. The SVP will lead all horticultural initiatives in collaboration with the Senior Management Team to ensure an integrated and strategically focused outcome that realizes the institution’s overall vision and values. This person will provide leadership, direction and management to both the botanical garden and facility staff including development and monitoring of the organizational structure needed to accomplish annual goals.

This person must possess outstanding horticulture or related garden design expertise as well as management, organizational and planning skills. A historical understanding of and sensitivity to Cheekwood’s origins as an American Country Place Era Estate is a must. This position requires thorough knowledge of botanic garden collections, supporting science and sustainability practices with demonstrated creative design abilities. An advanced degree in horticulture or related fields such as landscape architecture, arboriculture, garden design or historic preservation is highly desirable. We seek a minimum of ten years of progressive supervisory experience and demonstrated organizational success in a similar role.

To apply, please send a current resume and letter of interest to Kittleman & Associates, LLC at resumes@kittleman.net.

CONTROLLER
Working closely with the Vice President of Finance & Administration this position will oversee all accounting functions, manage the budget process, and assist with finance/operation special projects.

Key Responsibilities:
• Assure deadlines are met by accounting staff so that monthly financial statements can be issued by the 10th of the month for the prior month and all external deadlines are met
• Assure financial statements accurately reflect the financial position of Cheekwood with particular attention to funds and projects
• Process and /or oversee the production of Cheekwood’s bi-weekly payroll, assuring accuracy and adherence to payroll timelines
• Assure cash is being maximized through timely deposits and payment of liabilities
• Assist with cash receipt and accounts payable data entry
• Assure that adequate internal controls are in place and being utilized on a regular basis
• Assure that all tax returns are completed accurately and timely with appropriate backup documentation
• Provide assistance with audit preparation, audit schedules, and direction
• Assist department managers to prepare meaningful budget documents for use by multiple internal and external customers
• Develop a knowledge base which will facilitate the preparation of pro-forma budget documents for proposed projects or initiatives
• Complete budget documents required for annual grant applications
• Provide assistance in the areas of finance and operations as needed to assess new business ventures, complete new contractual relationships, evaluate potential operational changes, etc.
• Provide assistance with managing relationship with outside vendors in the areas of banking, mail processing, insurance, employee benefits, equipment, etc.
• Supervises the Accounting Assistant(s)

The ideal candidate will have a minimum of 5 year’s experience as a controller in a non-profit environment, strong organizational skills with attention to detail, understanding of general ledger accounting and the ability to utilize computerized accounting software and spreadsheet software at an intermediate level or higher. Knowledge of non-profit accounting and Sage MIP Fund Accounting Software is highly desired. Bachelor’s degree in Accounting is required. Send letter of interest and resume to Penny Bruckse, Vice President of Human Resources, Cheekwood, 1200 Forrest Park Drive, Nashville, TN 37205. Or email: pbruckse@cheekwood.org. EOE

PART-TIME LINE COOK
Cheekwood is seeking a part-time Line Cook. Working closely with the Executive Chef this position will be responsible for preparing dishes accurately for the Pineapple Room Restaurant with detail to presentation. Must have kitchen experience in a full service restaurant and demonstrated knife and cooking skills with the availability to work Tuesday-Sunday day shift and some nights. Send your resume to: Penny Bruckse, Vice President Human Resources, Cheekwood, 1200 Forrest Park Drive, Nashville, TN 37205 or email Pbruckse@cheekwood.org. EOE

TEMPORARY HOUSEKEEPER
Cheekwood Botanical Garden & Museum of Art is seeking an experienced Housekeeper. This position will be responsible for general cleaning of the building, office, kitchen and restrooms while maintaining our standard housekeeping procedures. Will also remove and set up furniture for daily meetings. Must have an appreciation for detail and have the ability to regularly lift and move up to 50 pounds.

One year of experience in commercial cleaning is preferred. We offer the opportunity to work in an exceptionally beautiful setting. Send letter of interest and resume to Penny Bruckse, Vice President of Human Resources, Cheekwood, 1200 Forrest Park Drive, Nashville, TN 37205. Or email: Pbruckse@cheekwood.org EOE

TEMPORARY PART-TIME SECURITY ATTENDANT
Working under the direction of the Security & Safety Manager, this position will be responsible for ensuring a safe and secure environment. Will also be responsible for monitoring radio traffic and providing customer service while maintaining a friendly professional demeanor. Must be willing to work evenings and weekends in all types of weather conditions.

Requirements: Security level experience in the entertainment or the hospitality industry is preferred. Must have a valid State of Tennessee Security Guard License. Please send your resume to Penny Bruckse, Vice President of Human Resources at Cheekwood, 1200 Forrest Park Drive, Nashville, TN, 37205 or email Pbruckse@cheekwood.org. EOE

ON-CALL BARTENDER
Be surrounded by art and nature while working at the historic Cheekwood Botanical Garden and Museum or Art. The beautiful surroundings and esteemed reputation of Cheekwood draws the most exciting and exclusive events in Middle Tennessee. This high end and fast pace environment requires the best of the best. Seeking knowledgeable and professional bartenders that have at least one year experience and a valid ABC permit. Must have the ability to work nights and weekends. Apply now and be a part of the select catering team at Cheekwood.

Please send your resume to Penny Bruckse, Vice President, Human Resources at Cheekwood, 1200 Forrest Park Drive, Nashville, TN, 37205 or email Pbruckse@cheekwood.org EOE

CATERING SERVER
Be surrounded by art and nature while working at the historic Cheekwood Botanical Garden and Museum or Art. The beautiful surroundings and esteemed reputation of Cheekwood draws the most exciting and exclusive events in Middle Tennessee. This high end and fast pace environment requires the best of the best. Working directly with the Banquet Captain this position is responsible for ensuring all food and beverage items are presented correctly while providing positive customer service to guests.

Must have one year of experience, strong customer service skills with the ability to multi-task, adapt to sudden change and a valid ABC card. This is an hourly temporary position that will require an availability of nights and weekends.

Send your resume to Penny Bruckse, Vice President, Human Resources, Cheekwood, 1200 Forrest Park Drive, Nashville, TN 37205. Or email Pbruckse@cheekwood.org. EOE

EDUCATION & PUBLIC PROGRAMS INTERNSHIP
Cheekwood Education and Public Programs Internships are designed for the university or college student seeking hands-on experience in a non-profit museum and botanical garden. Interns can experience all aspects of museum education and programming including: developing and teaching classes, creating educational materials, guiding tours through the gardens and collections, contributing to Cheekwood’s wide range of events, and working with a variety of age groups. The internship is ideal for students wishing to gain experience in: art education, museum education, event planning, and music business.

Hours/Time Commitment:
Internships are offered in conjunction with the academic calendar, coinciding with the fall, spring, and summer semesters. Hours vary and are flexible, but a minimum of 15 hours per week is required. Students should be available to work during Cheekwood’s opening hours and some Saturdays.

Academic Credit:
All interns are encouraged to obtain credit for internships through their academic institution. Cheekwood will work with students to complete all required paperwork and documentation.

Description / Focus Areas:
Internships are designed to introduce students to the multi-faceted and high energy field of museum education and provide opportunities to apply classroom skills in a real-world environment. Specific internship projects are based on Cheekwood needs and requirements as well as applicants’ interests and skills. Possible intern projects and/or areas of focus include:

• Exhibition Interpretation
  Interns will work with the Director of Education & Public Programs to develop interpretive materials, such as interactive galleries and family guides, in conjunction with upcoming exhibitions in the Garden and Museum of Art.
• Studio Art Instruction / Teaching Assistant
  Teaching Assistants will work with the Youth and Community Coordinator to manage the operations of Cheekwood’s weekly classes or camps. From developing craft activities and preparing the supplies to facilitating class sessions, interns will help create a fun and educational season of classes. Potential duties include: supply ordering & preparations, lesson planning for classes and larger events, leading drop-in art programs, planning and facilitating seasonal programming for families.
• Public Programs & Events
  Interns will work with the Public Programs Coordinator to plan and execute monthly programs, concerts, lectures and workshops, and seasonal events such as Cheekwood in Bloom, Spring Art Hop, Cheekwood Harvest, El Día de los Muertos, and Holiday @ Cheekwood. Potential duties include: researching talent for public programs, assisting with performance preparations, organizing event space, lay-out, and logistics, and overseeing programs while in progress.
• School Services & Outreach
  Interns will work with Cheekwood’s School & Outreach Coordinator to develop educational materials for school tours and programs as well as projects and materials for outreach services. From creating standards-based tours to developing supplemental materials for teachers, aspiring educators will gain great hands-on experience.
  
  Application Process:
  Interested applicants should submit their letter of interest and resume to the Volunteer Coordinator at volunteers@cheekwood.org or mail it to: 1200 Forrest Park Drive, Nashville, TN 37205. Applicants should reference the focus area(s) they are most interested in (Exhibit Interpretation, Studio Art Instruction, Programs & Events, or School Services and Outreach.)

EDUCATION & PUBLIC PROGRAMS SUMMER INTERNSHIP

Cheekwood Education and Public Programs Internships are designed for the university or college student seeking to gain hands-on experience in a non-profit museum and botanical garden. Interns will experience all aspects of museum education including: developing and teaching classes, creating educational materials, overseeing studio spaces, contributing to Cheekwood’s wide range of events, and working with a variety of age groups.

Available Internships: Summer Camp Interns and Ceramic Camp Interns

Hours/Time Commitment: The Summer internships run 10 weeks, from May 28-August 6 (with no Camps the week of July 4). Time commitments and specific schedules vary by type of internship.

Compensation/College Credit: Interns are encouraged to obtain credit for internships through their academic institution. Cheekwood will work with students to complete all required paperwork and documentation. All internships are unpaid and interns are responsible for their housing, meals and travel expenses. Interns receive discounts in Cheekwood’s restaurant and gift shop on the days they serve and have access to the art studio for their own use during non-camp or class time.

Application Deadline: Interested applicants should send the following materials to volunteers@cheekwood.org: Cheekwood Volunteer Application, letter of interest, resume, and (suggested) images of artwork.
 

HORTICULTURE INTERNSHIP
Horticulture internships are designed to expose students to the multi-faceted and labor intensive field horticulture and public garden management while providing them with opportunities to apply these skills in a real-world environment. Interns help maintain Cheekwood’s gardens while working side by side with highly skilled garden staff throughout the 55 acre garden. Interns play an integral role in ensuring the quality and overall beauty of the gardens by assisting with planting, watering, weed control, insect and pest identification, fertilization, and general garden upkeep.

Responsibilities Include:
• Follow and assist garden staff with the daily garden maintenance, rotating through each garden.
• Assist with seasonal color installation.
• Assist with daily garden maintenance such as weeding and watering.
• Observe Seasonal Color design sessions and assist with plant selection.
• Assist with the plant collections including dogwood collection.
• Assist with plant maintenance in the production greenhouses.

Goals/Accomplishments Include:
• Work collaboratively with the garden staff in order to understand their key role with in the institution.
• Develop working knowledge of minor equipment such as mowers, blowers, and weedeaters.
• Work with the Garden manager to develop a self guided tour for the Dogwood collection.

Hours / Time Commitment: 
The total amount of time worked per week is at the digression of the student, volunteer or requirements by the University. To fully understand all aspects of the Horticulture Department a minimum of 15 hours per week is suggested.

Compensation / College Credit:
All interns are encouraged to obtain credit for internships through their academic institution. The Horticulture department internship program does not currently offer any paid internship positions. Interns are responsible for their housing, meals, and travel expenses.

Disclaimer Statement:
This is not necessarily an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, skills, duties, requirements, efforts or working conditions associated with the internship. While this is intended to be an accurate reflection of the current internship, management reserves the right to revise the internship, or to require that other, or different tasks be performed when circumstances change.

DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT INTERNSHIP
Development Department internships are designed to expose students to Membership, Individual, Corporate and Foundation Giving while providing students with opportunities to apply skills in a real-world environment.

Responsibilities Include:
• Conducting research on top prospects using a variety of tools and online databases
• Assisting with the execution of cultivation and fulfillment events for top donors and members
• Drafting fundraising communications copy
• Researching grant opportunities
• Preparing management tracking materials
• Interacting with members and donors
• Assisting staff with preparation and execution of projects and activities

Experience in the following areas is preferred:
• Experience in arts and culture institutions
• Research
• Museum Services
• Customer Service

HOURS/TIME COMMITMENT:
The Development internship runs Monday through Friday 8:30am – 5pm, with a 6-12 week commitment. The intern will keep a Log Sheet recording actual hours, by day.

Application Deadline: Interested applicants should send the following materials to volunteers@cheekwood.org: Letter of interest and resume.

ORGANIZATIONAL OVERVIEW:
 Cheekwood Botanical Gardens and Museum of Art is located on 55-acres in Nashville, Tennessee, and is considered one of the finest examples of an American Country Place Era Estate in the United States. Designed by Bryant Fleming for the Cheek Family who amassed their fortune through the Maxwell House Coffee business, Cheekwood was built between 1929 and 1932. The estate was opened to the public as a garden and art museum in 1960 and currently operates with an annual budget of $6 million and over 100 full and part-time staff members. A Fodor’s Destination of Choice, Cheekwood welcomes over 200,000 visitors from around the world annually and has 11,000 member families. 

Named to the National Register of Historic Places in 2000 for its 30,000 square-foot Georgian Mansion and original boxwood gardens, Cheekwood boasts 10 additional distinct gardens, numerous botanical collections and a Tennessee Level IV Arboretum. Cheekwood is also an accredited art museum with strengths in American painting, works on paper, photographs, and decorative arts. The Carell Woodland Sculpture Trail showcases an outstanding collection of outdoor sculpture by internationally acclaimed artists along a natural hiking trail. 

MISSION:
Preserve Cheekwood as an historical landmark where beauty and excellence in art and horticulture stimulate the mind and nurture the spirit. 

VISION:
Cheekwood will be a nationally recognized destination renowned for its distinctive beauty, historical significance and excellence in art and horticulture. 

VALUES:
• Celebration of BEAUTY that nurtures the spirit
• Historical PRESERVATION that pays tribute to the past
• EDUCATION that stimulates the mind
• FINANCIAL RESPONSIBILITY in stewarding our resources
• CREATIVITY that ensures we are dynamic and innovative
• COLLABORATION that embraces our community
• EXCELLENCE as our standard of operation in all areas