Asst. Urban Agriculture Resource Specialist
Key details
- Location
- Philadelphia, PA, United States
- Work style
- Onsite
- Level
- Entry level
- Job type
- Temporary
- Experience
- 1–4 yrs
- Function
- Operations & Strategy
- Focus area
- other
- Posted
- 2d ago
Skills
About the role
Position Overview:
The Assistant Urban Agriculture Resource Specialist of the PHS Community Gardens supports the Urban Agriculture Resource Specialist and Garden Resource Manager across all areas of resource production and distribution, seedling propagation, and tool library upkeep at our Green Resource Centers. The associate plays a hands-on operational support role in seeding, potting, and maintaining over 300,000 organically grown seedlings, as well as preparing essential agricultural materials for grower distribution. Additionally, the associate assists with the day-to-day operations and customer service at the McLean Urban Agriculture Tool Library at Glenwood Green Acres, helping maintain equipment and support visiting growers. Lastly, the associate provides secondary support for site upkeep, volunteer activities, and general team projects as needed.
Primary Responsibilities:
Greenhouse Operations & Plant Propagation Support
- Assists with daily seedling propagation, irrigation, and general greenhouse care across Green Resource Centers.
- Supports execution of seeding schedules, transplanting, and potting under the direction of the Specialist.
- Monitors plant health, noting early signs of pests or disease and applying routine organic controls as instructed.
- Assists with inventory intake, staging, and organized distribution of seedlings and growing supplies to community growers.
- Helps lead volunteer groups during propagation shifts, guiding participants on basic greenhouse tasks and ensuring a welcoming, safe experience.
- Supports Saturday greenhouse watering routines and general weekend operational checks during the peak season.
Tool Library Operations & Technical Support
- Assists with routine tool checkout and check-in procedures using the MyTurn reservation system during open hours.
- Interfaces with community growers, answering basic questions regarding tool selection, safe handling, and resource availability.
- Performs basic tool cleaning, organizer maintenance, and routine minor repairs; logs damaged tools for specialist review.
- Keeps supply distribution areas clean, organized, and stocked for growers and visiting community members.
Site Upkeep & Team Support
- Performs general grounds upkeep and routine facility maintenance at assigned Green Resource Center locations.
- Provides hands-on support for special events, community workshops, and team projects, including support at the Subaru Garden for Good and seasonal Philadelphia Flower Show shifts.
Qualifications/Specifications:
- Minimum degree required: High School diploma or GED equivalent.
- Years of experience: Minimum of 1 year (1 full season) of hands-on experience in organic gardening, plant propagation, or urban farming.
Licenses/Certifications:
- Driver’s License: Valid driver’s license and safe driving record required.
Knowledges, Skills, Abilities Required for Success:
- Foundational knowledge of organic gardening, seedling care, and basic plant health.
- Familiarity with common hand tools and basic power equipment used in agriculture.
- Strong willingness to take direction, learn new techniques, and execute hands-on physical labor effectively.
- Basic proficiency with computer tools and digital platforms (e.g., data entry, reservation systems).
- Good interpersonal and customer service skills when working with community members, volunteers, and growers.
- Strong organizational skills and reliable attention to daily detail.
- Ability to work collaboratively as part of a small team in a fast-paced outdoor environment.
- Familiarity with the local Philadelphia community and urban agriculture landscape is a plus.
Physical Demands:
Ability to regularly lift and move up to 50 pounds. Ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions (heat, rain, cold) and stand/walk for extended periods.
Standard Hours:
- Seasonal 2/1/27- 10/1/27
- Regular work schedule includes Saturday mornings and Wednesday evenings, with standard daytime shifts on remaining weekdays (generally off Sunday/Monday).
- Flower Show requirements: As required (typically 3–4 shifts during the annual Flower Show).
EEO NOTICE:
At PHS, we value a diverse, inclusive workforce and we provide equal employment opportunity for all applicants and employees. All qualified applicants for employment will be considered without regard to an individual’s race, color, sex, gender identity, gender expression, religion, age, national origin or ancestry, citizenship, physical or mental disability, medical condition, family care status, marital status, domestic partner status, sexual orientation, genetic information, military or veteran status, or any other basis protected by federal, state or local laws.
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