Garden and Grounds Assistant

Position Summary 

The Garden and Grounds Assistant supports the maintenance and development of Folk School grounds, garden, and trails. Working closely with the Garden and Work Study Manager and the Work Study Program members, this position has a wide range of responsibilities, including activities related to vegetable and craft plant production, general landscaping duties, and preparation of materials for use in classes. Additionally, the position will participate in developing new markets for Folk School produce (such as expanding our spring plant sale and commencing sales of dried dye materials). This is a year-round position with responsibilities that vary through seasons. Approximately 90% of the year will be spent with our Work Study group, and most tasks will be completed alongside this group. This is a support role that will also include occasional tasks assisting our Marketing and Events departments. This is a full-time approx. 40 hrs/wk, benefits-eligible and non-exempt hourly position reporting to the Buildings and Grounds Director.

Position Responsibilities:

• Landscape and continued maintenance of landscapes.
• Maintenance and improvement of campus paths and hiking trails.
• Support the guidance of the “work” component of the Work Study Program.
• Assist in all aspects of our vegetable and craft plant garden.
• Coordinate work study efforts for other departments as needed.
• Develop a schedule with the Garden and Work Study Manager to offer and give weekly garden tours.

• Assist with special events.
• Perform a variety of garden and manual tasks, including bed preparation, seeding, transplanting, cultivating, harvest, post-harvest tasks, weed whacking, mowing, blowing, etc.

• Perform other related duties as assigned by the Buildings and Grounds Director and the Garden and Work Study Manager.

Education and Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in a related field, preferred.
• Professional work experience in gardening, landscaping, farming, or ranching, required.

Position Skills/Aptitudes:

• Ability to work effectively with a diverse group of individuals with varying skill levels.
• Ability to complete tasks independently and effectively guide the work of others.
• Proficiency in operating, maintaining, and providing instruction on equipment such as weedwhackers, blowers, chainsaws, and walk-behind tractors.
• Ability to operate riding equipment, including zero-turn mowers, skid steers, and backhoes.
• A strong proficiency in or an ability to quickly learn plant identification skills.
• Proven experience leading others in an employee or volunteer setting.
• Ability to independently implement and complete projects related to core job responsibilities with minimal supervision.
• Basic computer skills, including the ability to use email and manage record-keeping tasks.

Physical Demands 

This is a highly physical position that requires a high level of physical ability and stamina. The position requires that the employee be able to walk unaided up and down hills and over uneven terrain, bend, stoop, and have use of fine and gross motor skills. This position requires the use of a variety of Folk School vehicles. A current driver’s license is required. The work of this position frequently requires the use of hands to handle, or touch objects, tools, or controls. The employee must frequently lift and/or move heavy objects or boxes, up to 50 pounds. Must be able to occasionally work weekends and holidays, as needed. This position requires fluency in English.

Pay & Benefits 

The pay for this position is approximately $17.50 per hour. The Folk School offers a comprehensive benefits package including health insurance, generous paid time off and two free classes annually.

Applications 

To be considered for this position, please submit applications online and include the following materials:

1. Cover letter that details your experience and knowledge in gardening, farming, and landscaping.
2. Resume.
3. Contact information for three professional references.

Review of applicants will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled.

If you should need assistance with the application process, please e-mail jobs@folkschool.org.

John C. Campbell Folk School is an EEO Employer. EEO employers are committed to hiring a diverse workforce and sustaining an inclusive culture. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, gender, sex, age, religion, disability, sexual orientation, or veteran status, or any other status or characteristic protected by law.