School Gardens Maintenance Specialist

About the district

Springfield Public Schools is a cultural gem in Western Massachusetts that is committed to providing a learning environment that opens the doors of infinite possibilities to our amazing students and staff. We strive to equip each of our approximately 24,000 students with learning experiences that enhance their knowledge and critical thinking skills. We are the 3rd largest district in Massachusetts. Our district has over 44 languages spoken and over 60 countries represented by both students and staff. We foster a positive and professional environment in our schools and worksites where people feel valued, respected, supported, seen and heard. Our students and staff share their ideas and perspectives, learning from and appreciating each other. We are a district that is committed to equity and excellence.

Responsibilities

• Works collaboratively with the Director of Science, District ILSs, School Gardens Teacher, other educators, and School Garden Champions.
• In conjunction with the School Garden Teacher, responsible for garden installations, care, and maintenance across SPS.
• Work with the Director of Science and the District Science ILSs in the operation of the Science Resource Center.
• Gardening requires bending, crouching, crawling, reaching, lifting (sometimes up to 50 pounds), walking, kneeling, standing, exerting force with legs and arms, pushing, pulling, and other physically demanding activities.
• Receive, inspect, store, and deliver garden/science materials.
• Responsible for weeding, mulching, digging, raking, and shoveling.
• Responsible for pruning fruit trees.
• Responsible for planting, transplanting, dividing, and composting.
• Work in all types of weather, and exposure to the outdoor elements is required.
• Keep track of inventory and communicate need to School Gardens Teacher.
• Maintain the orderly storage of materials.
• Work in cooperation with the school site administrators.
• Cooperatively work with educators and other staff members.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Requires at least 1-2 years of experience in gardening, horticulture, or agriculture.
• Plant and gardening knowledge (vegetable, fruit, and native plants) required.
• Relevant associates degree preferred, or educational requirement may be substituted for at least 3 years of experience in relevant field.
• Highly organized.
• Demonstrates effective and reliable work habits, including regular and punctual attendance, and shows a willingness to learn new work skills.
• Ability to communicate effectively with educators and students in a friendly and supportive manner.
• Ability to work as an effective team member in a diverse educational, multicultural environment.
• Ability to perform duties and responsibilities independently with minimal supervision