Job Description Summary:
Job Description:
Under the direction of the Greenhouse Manager, the Greenhouse Assistant & Environmental Education Coordinator supports the daily operation and maintenance of the greenhouse while developing and delivering engaging educational experiences for students. This position combines hands-on horticultural work with curriculum design to foster environmental stewardship, plant science knowledge, and experiential learning. The ideal candidate is passionate about plants, enjoys working with students of diverse ages, and is committed to creating a safe, organized, and thriving greenhouse environment, with a particular emphasis on hydroponic vegetable production and maintaining a botanical collection. Work schedule will include weekend coverage.
Key Responsibilities
Educational Programming
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Develop partnerships with schools and other educational organizations, including at least some of the school systems currently served by CHC’s school-based health centers
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Create age-appropriate, standards-aligned curriculum and lesson plans focused on horticulture, plant science, sustainability, ecology, and agriculture, including interactive learning materials. Topics may include introductions to Food as Medicine, nutrition and wellness, food labeling, plant-based eating, practical cooking for young people, and career pathways in agriculture and community health.
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Lead hands-on educational activities for students, school groups, and community participants.
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Adapt lessons for a variety of grade levels and learning styles.
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Evaluate educational programs and revise curriculum based on participant feedback and learning outcomes.
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Collaborate with CHC providers and dietitians, as well as local teachers and program staff to integrate greenhouse learning into broader educational initiatives.
Program Support
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Work effectively with Communications, Grants and other relevant teams to develop and maintain program visibility, community collaboration and funding efforts
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Assist with special events, workshops, and community outreach activities.
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Support volunteers and student interns working in the greenhouse.
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Help maintain educational communication, displays, signage, and interpretive materials.
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Participate in planning seasonal projects and educational initiatives.
Greenhouse Operations
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As directed by the Greenhouse Manager, maintain the health and appearance of greenhouse plants through watering, fertilizing, pruning, transplanting, and pest management, as well as effectively working with the hydroponics system vendor.
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Monitor environmental conditions, including temperature, humidity, irrigation, and ventilation systems.
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Propagate plants from seed and cuttings and maintain production schedules.
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Assist with seasonal planting, harvesting, and greenhouse organization.
Maintain accurate records of plant inventories, care schedules,
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and greenhouse supplies.
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Ensure greenhouse facilities, tools, and equipment are clean, safe, and well maintained.
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Follow best practices for plant health, sanitation, and workplace safety.
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As needed, transport supplies, plants, produce and/or small equipment
Qualifications
Required
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Associate or bachelor’s degree in horticulture, environmental science, biology, education, agriculture, or a related field, or equivalent experience.
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Experience caring for plants in a greenhouse, nursery, garden, or similar setting, ideally with at least some experience with hydroponic technology.
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Experience developing or teaching educational programs for students of varying ages.
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Strong organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills.
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Ability to work independently and collaboratively.
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Ability to perform physical tasks including lifting up to 40 pounds, standing for extended periods, bending, and working in varying environmental conditions.
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Valid CT drivers’ license and ability to drive van or other small transport vehicles
Preferred
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Experience with greenhouse environmental controls and irrigation systems
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Small-scale production farming or market gardening experience
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Knowledge of integrated pest management (IPM) practices
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Experience with curriculum aligned to state or national science standards
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Analytic skills (including use of tools like excel) to track and evaluate various plant growth and education/outreach program metrics
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First Aid and CPR certification (or willingness to obtain)
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Bilingual (Spanish) preferred
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Experience supervising volunteers or student workers
Other Important skills
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Passion for environmental education and sustainable horticulture
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Strong problem-solving and organizational abilities
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Creativity in developing engaging, hands-on learning experiences
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Flexibility and adaptability in a dynamic educational environment
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Attention to detail and commitment to maintaining healthy plant collections
Work Schedule
This position is expected to require least some regular weekend hours to support plant care and programs.
Organization Information:
The Moses/Weitzman Health System is a global leader addressing challenges faced by organizations caring for the poor and diverse populations, and is home to programs focusing on education, research, and process improvement support for safety net providers. The system delivers primary care to more than 150,000 patients in Connecticut, and extends access to specialty care for more than 2.5 million individuals across the U.S. It is a national accrediting body for organizations training advanced practice providers, and offers accredited education and training for Medical Assistants in multiple states. As an incubator for new ideas in areas including social justice, the environment, and social determinants of health, the MWHS is addressing challenges faced by providers caring for underserved communities, creating innovative and impactful initiatives led by nationally and internationally recognized experts. As it forges pathways into the future of primary care, the MWHS honors Lillian Reba Moses (1924-2012), a granddaughter of slaves, and Gerard (Gerry) Weitzman (1938-1999), whose ancestors escaped pogroms in Eastern Europe. Their vision and commitment to justice and equity in healthcare is the foundation upon which the Moses/Weitzman Health System was built.
Location:
Knowledge and Technology Center
City:
Middletown
State:
Connecticut
Time Type:
Full time
