Greenhouse & Garden Assistant

About the role

The Center for Human Services (CHS) has provided exceptional opportunities for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities since 1955. Currently, CHS provides programs and services to assist individuals with disabilities, low income, at-risk children, and their families to meet their goals, and experience their best lives while living, working, playing, and becoming a part of their communities. As an organization, we are leaders in excellence, we have a steadfast commitment to solutions, we respect all differences, abilities, and similarities in our employees and clients, and we advocate autonomy!

The Part-Time Greenhouse & Garden Assistant supports daily greenhouse and garden operations while contributing to a safe, person-centered, and productive work environment. This position assists with plant production, greenhouse maintenance, and outdoor garden activities that support CHS vocational and community-based programming. This entry-level position provides hands-on experience in horticulture, hydroponics, aquaponics, and sustainable growing practices.

Responsibilities

• Provide daily plant care by watering, monitoring plant health, sowing seeds, transplanting crops, and assisting with crop production activities in indoor and outdoor growing environments.
• Maintain greenhouse and garden areas by weeding, mulching, compost management, cleaning and sanitizing equipment, and ensuring workspaces remain organized and safe.
• Assist with operation and monitoring of growing systems and environmental controls, including irrigation, climate systems, hydroponic and aquaponic equipment, while reporting concerns to the supervisor.
• Support CHS vocational programming by working cooperatively with individuals served, staff, volunteers, and community partners while promoting inclusion, safety, and respect.

Skills

• Ability to adapt to indoor and outdoor work environments and changing priorities.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Ability to work respectfully with individuals served, coworkers, volunteers, and community members.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to follow instructions.
• Attention to detail
• Initiative
• Meeting standards
• Practical thinking
• Relating to others
• Respect for policies
• Results orientation
• Relating to others
• Respect for policies
• Results orientation

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent preferred
• No prior greenhouse experience required; paid training provided.
• Interest in horticulture, agriculture, hydroponics, aquaponics, or sustainable farming.
• Valid driver's license and proof of insurance if required by position or CHS policy.
• Ability to stand, walk, bend, crouch, and perform repetitive tasks for extended periods.
• Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to work in hot, humid greenhouse conditions and varying outdoor weather.