Garden Assistant

Rice University•Houston, TX

3d•$20•Onsite

About The Position

The Wiess School of Natural Sciences is seeking a dedicated part-time Garden Assistant for the Betty and Jacob Friedman Holistic Garden. The Garden Assistant will be responsible for performing a variety of horticultural tasks and ensuring the proper care and maintenance of garden plantings and grounds. This role involves working closely with the Garden Manager and Director to help maintain the functionality of the garden, operate equipment, and assist with garden-related projects. This is a part-time position (approximately 20 hours per week) one-year term limited position.

Requirements

High School Diploma or Equivalent
Three or more (3+) years of any work experience to include some garden experience
In lieu of the experience requirement, additional related education, above and beyond what is required, on an equivalent year for year basis may be substituted
Knowledge of organic gardening techniques, organic garden management, and protection of the natural ecosystem of which the garden is a part
Functional knowledge of organic gardening methods, botany, and environmental science
Ability to monitor the health of plants under all conditions
Dependability
Ability to follow instructions
Advanced knowledge of ground maintenance
Strong interpersonal skills
Advanced knowledge of proper equipment use and maintenance

Nice To Haves

Previous experience supervising students or volunteers is a plus.

Responsibilities

Perform general grounds and equipment maintenance activities as directed
Contribute to the implementation and completion of garden projects in collaboration with the Garden Director and Manager
Collaborate with Garden Director and Manager to coordinate assignments and work schedules and report areas of risk
Work collaboratively with Garden Manager to administer garden operations
Participate in horticultural maintenance; plants, irrigates, prunes, manages pests, and removes garden plantings; cleans, weeds, and mulches around fruit trees, vegetable and herb plantings, and specialty garden beds and plantings; prepares area, adds topsoil and compost, and manages the production of crops
Remove debris from garden areas, walkways, and paths, ensuring the garden remains clean and accessible
Operate and maintain various garden tools, equipment, and facilities, including the solar greenhouse. Provide guidance on their safe use and care
Assist with the moving and storage of garden furniture, tools, and equipment as needed
Provide functional supervision and guidance to designated student employees, fostering a collaborative work environment
Maintain and repair garden tools, equipment, and related facilities to ensure safe and effective operation
Ensure proper data tracking, including maintaining logs for rainwater usage, visitor attendance, and volunteer sign-ins
Assist with the preparation and coordination of campus, community, and class events hosted in the garden
Perform any additional duties as assigned to support the efficient operation of the garden