Job Description Summary:
Job Description:
The Horticulture Program and Operations Manager works closely with MWHS leadership to develop and optimally leverage its expanding programs and greenhouse/garden operations to support “Food as Medicine”-related initiatives and other aspects of wellness and community engagement. Collaborates with internal and external stakeholders to identify partnerships and funding opportunities that will help drive expansion of program impact but across the State of Connecticut and nationally.
Oversees the daily operations, plant production, and educational use of the community garden’s greenhouse facility and outdoor growing spaces. This role ensures healthy plant propagation, coordinates volunteers (from either MWHS staff or the local community), maintains a productive and welcoming growing environment, and effectively communicates and supports the garden’s mission of community engagement, food security, and environmental education.
Key Responsibilities:
Program Design and Development
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Understand and effectively communicate the evolving landscape associated with “Food as Medicine” and its ties to healthy, thriving communities
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Collaborate with internal and external partners to secure and increase the impact of MWHS programs as part of the State and National efforts to improve the nutrition and well-being of under-served populations
Operations
- Oversee all aspects of greenhouse and garden management and maintenance (currently includes one greenhouse and one “hoop house” but is anticipated to expand)
- Work effectively with leadership to ensure maximum benefit of the important resources associated with the greenhouse/gardens and alignment with the “Food As Medicine” initiatives
- Manage propagation schedules for vegetables, herbs, flowers, and native plants.
- Maintain optimal growing conditions, including watering, ventilation, temperature, humidity, and lighting.
- Monitor plant health, diagnose problems (pests, diseases, nutrient issues), and implement sustainable solutions.
- Develop and follow seasonal production plans to meet the objectives of the urban agriculture project
- Maintain inventory of seeds, soil, tools, and greenhouse supplies.
- Oversee harvest and distribution of produce and plant starts in line with project goals.
Volunteer & Community Engagement
- Recruit, train, and supervise volunteers assisting with greenhouse and garden tasks.
- Provide hands-on guidance in planting, transplanting, and general plant care.
- Collaborate with internal stakeholders, community partners, schools, and youth programs on greenhouse and garden-based projects.
- Serve as a spokesperson for MWHS in working with legislators, community/academic partners and potential funders.
- Lead workshops or tours on gardening practices, seed starting, and greenhouse management.
Sustainability & Safety
- Implement environmentally responsible growing practices (compost use, water conservation, IPM strategies).
- Ensure compliance with safety protocols, including harvest practices, tool operation and chemical handling (if applicable).
- Maintain cleanliness and organization of greenhouse and garden spaces.
Recordkeeping & Planning
- Track planting schedules, germination rates, plant yields, and supply usage.
- Prepare reports for garden leadership or grant requirements.
- Assist with long-term planning for expansion, equipment upgrades, and new programming.
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree or equivalent
- Experience in greenhouse management, horticulture, agriculture, or related field (professional or extensive volunteer).
- Strong knowledge of plant propagation, soil health, pest management, and greenhouse systems.
- Ability to lead and motivate volunteers of diverse backgrounds and ages.
- Strong organizational and communication skills.
- Comfort with physical labor, working in varying temperature conditions, and lifting up to 40 lbs.
- (Preferred) Experience with community gardening, food justice, education, or nonprofit work.
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
