Greenhouse Assistant & Education Coordinator

Greenhouse Assistant & Environmental Education Coordinator

Position Summary

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

• 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
• 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.
• Lead hands-on educational activities for students, school groups, and community participants.
• Adapt lessons for a variety of grade levels and learning styles.
• Evaluate educational programs and revise curriculum based on participant feedback and learning outcomes.
• Collaborate with CHC providers and dietitians, as well as local teachers and program staff to integrate greenhouse learning into broader educational initiatives.

Program Support

• Work effectively with Communications, Grants and other relevant teams to develop and maintain program visibility, community collaboration and funding efforts
• Assist with special events, workshops, and community outreach activities.
• Support volunteers and student interns working in the greenhouse.
• Help maintain educational communication, displays, signage, and interpretive materials.
• Participate in planning seasonal projects and educational initiatives.

Greenhouse Operations

• 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.
• Monitor environmental conditions, including temperature, humidity, irrigation, and ventilation systems.
• Propagate plants from seed and cuttings and maintain production schedules.
• Assist with seasonal planting, harvesting, and greenhouse organization.
• Maintain accurate records of plant inventories, care schedules, and greenhouse supplies.
• Ensure greenhouse facilities, tools, and equipment are clean, safe, and well maintained.
• Follow best practices for plant health, sanitation, and workplace safety.
• As needed, transport supplies, plants, produce and/or small equipment

Qualifications

Required

• Associate or bachelor’s degree in horticulture, environmental science, biology, education, agriculture, or a related field, or equivalent experience.
• Experience caring for plants in a greenhouse, nursery, garden, or similar setting, ideally with at least some experience with hydroponic technology. 
• Experience developing or teaching educational programs for students of varying ages.
• Strong organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively.
• Ability to perform physical tasks including lifting up to 40 pounds, standing for extended periods, bending, and working in varying environmental conditions.
• Valid CT drivers’ license and ability to drive van or other small transport vehicles

Preferred

• Experience with greenhouse environmental controls and irrigation systems
• Small-scale production farming or market gardening experience
• Knowledge of integrated pest management (IPM) practices
• Experience with curriculum aligned to state or national science standards
• Analytic skills (including use of tools like excel) to track and evaluate various plant growth and education/outreach program metrics
• First Aid and CPR certification (or willingness to obtain)
• Bilingual (Spanish) preferred
• Experience supervising volunteers or student workers

Other Important skills

• Passion for environmental education and sustainable horticulture
• Strong problem-solving and organizational abilities
• Creativity in developing engaging, hands-on learning experiences
• Flexibility and adaptability in a dynamic educational environment
• 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.