Facilities Assistant - Windy City Harvest

Position Overview

The facilities assistant plays a vital role in maintaining the greenhouses and farm sites at Windy City Harvest. The person in this position supports the upkeep and repair of facilities, equipment, and tools, while helping ensure the health and productivity of plants and growing systems. The facilities assistant works closely with staff to carry out daily operations and sustain efficient, safe, and functional farm environments. Success in this role requires strong attention to detail, problem-solving skills, teamwork, and a commitment to sustainability and high-quality site maintenance.

Responsibilities

In this role you will be responsible for the following:

• Perform routine maintenance, repairs, and inspections of buildings, greenhouses, hoophouses, irrigation systems, and other farm structures.
• Identify and address safety hazards, leaks, structural concerns, and equipment issues; report concerns requiring additional support.
• Complete basic plumbing, electrical, carpentry, mechanical, and small-equipment repairs.
• Maintain walkways, work areas, storage spaces, landscaping, and overall site appearance at Farm on Ogden and assigned farm sites.
• Support waste, recycling, compost, snow removal, seasonal cleanup, and general site upkeep.
• Maintain and inspect hand tools, power tools, small machinery, and farm equipment; report or replace damaged or unsafe equipment.
• Support seasonal setup, breakdown, and storage of growing systems, farm infrastructure, and equipment.
• Support the transportation of vehicles, plants, supplies, equipment, and other materials to and from the main campus and assigned farm sites.
• Conduct regular fleet checks, including checking tire pressure and inspecting for visible damage, ensuring vehicle cabs are clean and orderly, and reporting maintenance or safety concerns.
• Maintain maintenance supplies and equipment inventories and track materials used for repairs and projects.
• Coordinate with the Facilities Manager, Site Managers, and program staff to prioritize and schedule maintenance needs.
• Follow all organizational safety procedures, including proper PPE and lockout/tagout procedures when required.
• Promptly report unsafe conditions, property damage, equipment concerns, and workplace incidents.
• Assist with event setup, farm logistics, and other facility or special projects as needed.

Qualifications

Our ideal candidate will have the following:

• At least two years of experience in general maintenance, facilities, farm operations, production, or a related field.
• Hands-on experience with hand tools, power tools, maintenance equipment, and small machinery.
• Experience with greenhouses, hoophouses, irrigation systems, or similar agricultural structures preferred.
• Familiarity with basic plumbing and water systems, including PVC and flexible tubing.
• Strong troubleshooting, problem-solving, and mechanical skills.
• Ability to prioritize tasks, work independently, and manage time effectively.
• Clear communication and ability to work collaboratively with supervisors and team members.
• Basic computer skills and ability to complete written and electronic records.
• Valid driver's license, at least two years of experience driving larger vehicles, and a clean driving record.

Physical Demands

• Staff must be able to work in all weather conditions.
• The role involves frequent lifting, standing, walking, and bending.
• Daily tasks will include operating small farm machinery and maintenance equipment.
• Staff are required to lift, push, and pull items weighing up to 50 pounds.
• This position also involves completing daily written paperwork.

Benefits

• Year-Round Full-time employees of the Chicago Botanic Garden are eligible for the following Benefits: 2026 A Guide to Your Benefits JP.pdf