School Gardens Maintenance Specialist

Springfield Public Schools • Springfield, MA

14h • Onsite

About The Position

The School Gardens Maintenance Specialist works collaboratively with the Director of Science, District ILSs, the School Gardens Teacher, educators, and School Garden Champions to install, care for, and maintain gardens across Springfield Public Schools. The specialist also works with the Director of Science and District Science ILSs in operating the Science Resource Center. Responsibilities include receiving, inspecting, storing, and delivering garden and science materials; maintaining inventory and orderly storage; and communicating supply needs to the School Gardens Teacher. The position involves outdoor work in all types of weather and physically demanding gardening activities.

Requirements

• At least 1–2 years of experience in gardening, horticulture, or agriculture.
• Knowledge of vegetable, fruit, and native plants and gardening.
• Highly organized.
• Effective and reliable work habits, including regular and punctual attendance, and willingness to learn new work skills.
• Ability to communicate effectively with educators and students in a friendly and supportive manner.
• Ability to work effectively as a team member in a diverse, multicultural educational environment.
• Ability to perform duties independently with minimal supervision.
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds and work outdoors in the elements.
• Ability to access email and the internet.
• Valid driver’s license and use of own transportation required.
• Ability to drive an industrial van and dump truck required.

Nice To Haves

• Relevant associate degree preferred; the educational requirement may be substituted with at least 3 years of experience in a relevant field.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with the Director of Science, District ILSs, the School Gardens Teacher, educators, and School Garden Champions.
• Work with the School Gardens Teacher on garden installations, care, and maintenance across SPS.
• Work with the Director of Science and District Science ILSs in the operation of the Science Resource Center.
• Receive, inspect, store, and deliver garden and science materials.
• Weed, mulch, dig, rake, and shovel.
• Prune fruit trees.
• Plant, transplant, divide, and compost.
• Track inventory and communicate needs to the School Gardens Teacher.
• Maintain orderly storage of materials.
• Work cooperatively with school site administrators, educators, and other staff members.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Benefits

• Competitive salaries and benefits.
• Professional development opportunities for all staff.
• Career advancement opportunities.
• “Grow our Own” and educational pipeline programs that help staff achieve a college degree or pursue certification pathways.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Education Level: Associate degree