Horticulture Assistant Grounds

The Ohio State University • Columbus, OH

9d • $15 - $20 • Onsite

About The Position

The Farm Coordinator 1 is a member of the College of Food, Agricultural, and Environmental Sciences (CFAES) Operations team and reports to the Chadwick Arboretum Director. This role supports horticultural operations, educational programming, and community engagement activities within the Arboretum and surrounding CFAES-managed spaces.

Requirements

• High school diploma or GED
• 0 years of required experience

Nice To Haves

• 0–2 years of relevant experience preferred

Responsibilities

• Manage and support horticultural operations, including planting, cultivation, and maintenance of garden and greenhouse plant materials
• Coordinate and oversee volunteers, student workers, and staff assisting with greenhouse operations, plant care, and related activities
• Perform administrative tasks such as recordkeeping, purchasing, and inventory tracking
• Procure plant materials, fertilizers, chemicals, and other supplies needed for garden and landscape maintenance
• Assist with the maintenance and upkeep of named gardens, learning gardens, and natural areas
• Operate and maintain equipment, including power and hand tools, ensuring safe and effective use
• Support internship programs by advising students on projects and coordinating experiential learning opportunities such as field trips, site visits, and Arboretum-based activities
• Assist with academic classes, outreach programs, Extension events, tours, and student engagement initiatives to promote CFAES programs and resources
• Develop and deliver educational programming and age-appropriate tours on topics such as pollinators, foraging, and medicinal plants
• Create educational and wayfinding signage to highlight garden projects and best management practices
• Provide cross-functional support to CFAES units, including horticulture and specialty crops, environmental and natural resources, grounds and turfgrass, the Olentangy River Wetlands, and the Waterman Agricultural and Natural Resources Laboratory
• Maintain effective communication with industry professionals, faculty, staff, college leadership, and the public

Benefits

• Medical, dental and vision coverage, with Ohio State paying a significant portion of the cost.
• Paid time off, including sick and vacation time and 11 holidays.
• State retirement plan or an alternative retirement plan, both with generous employer contributions.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED