Horticulture Program and Operations Manager
About The Position
The Horticulture Program and Operations Manager works closely with MWHS leadership to develop and optimally leverage its expanding programs and greenhouse/garden operations to support “Food as Medicine”-related initiatives and other aspects of wellness and community engagement. Collaborates with internal and external stakeholders to identify partnerships and funding opportunities that will help drive expansion of program impact but across the State of Connecticut and nationally. Oversees the daily operations, plant production, and educational use of the community garden’s greenhouse facility and outdoor growing spaces. This role ensures healthy plant propagation, coordinates volunteers (from either MWHS staff or the local community), maintains a productive and welcoming growing environment, and effectively communicates and supports the garden’s mission of community engagement, food security, and environmental education.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree or equivalent
- Experience in greenhouse management, horticulture, agriculture, or related field (professional or extensive volunteer).
- Strong knowledge of plant propagation, soil health, pest management, and greenhouse systems.
- Ability to lead and motivate volunteers of diverse backgrounds and ages.
- Strong organizational and communication skills.
- Comfort with physical labor, working in varying temperature conditions, and lifting up to 40 lbs.
Nice To Haves
- Experience with community gardening, food justice, education, or nonprofit work.
Responsibilities
- Oversee all aspects of greenhouse and garden management and maintenance
- Work effectively with leadership to ensure maximum benefit of the important resources associated with the greenhouse/gardens and alignment with the “Food As Medicine” initiatives
- Manage propagation schedules for vegetables, herbs, flowers, and native plants.
- Maintain optimal growing conditions, including watering, ventilation, temperature, humidity, and lighting.
- Monitor plant health, diagnose problems (pests, diseases, nutrient issues), and implement sustainable solutions.
- Develop and follow seasonal production plans to meet the objectives of the urban agriculture project
- Maintain inventory of seeds, soil, tools, and greenhouse supplies.
- Oversee harvest and distribution of produce and plant starts in line with project goals.
- Recruit, train, and supervise volunteers assisting with greenhouse and garden tasks.
- Provide hands-on guidance in planting, transplanting, and general plant care.
- Collaborate with internal stakeholders, community partners, schools, and youth programs on greenhouse and garden-based projects.
- Serve as a spokesperson for MWHS in working with legislators, community/academic partners and potential funders.
- Lead workshops or tours on gardening practices, seed starting, and greenhouse management.
- Implement environmentally responsible growing practices (compost use, water conservation, IPM strategies).
- Ensure compliance with safety protocols, including harvest practices, tool operation and chemical handling (if applicable).
- Maintain cleanliness and organization of greenhouse and garden spaces.
- Track planting schedules, germination rates, plant yields, and supply usage.
- Prepare reports for garden leadership or grant requirements.
- Assist with long-term planning for expansion, equipment upgrades, and new programming.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Mid Level
