Greenhouse Associate

Overview

Dynamic and self-motivated greenhouse professional to assist in the oversight of the daily operations of a greenhouse, maintenance of surrounding property and sales.  Responsible for assisting the Greenhouse Manager in the daily planning, organization, and administration of greenhouse, nursery and property-related activities on Wheatley Farms in Brookville, NY. The Greenhouse Associate will work with an interdisciplinary team to ensure that the greenhouse business runs efficiently and profitably.  Care and maintenance of plants including watering, pest control and treatment, planting, property management for designated areas of campus and plant sales are required. Public engagement, tours and working with a large and diverse group of volunteers with a variety of abilities is essential. A respectful, professional demeanor is expected in all interactions.

This position embraces diversity in all its forms and strives to create an inclusive, welcoming environment where every individual feels valued. They demonstrate cultural awareness and actively support a culture of equity and inclusion.

Responsibilities

Primary duties and responsibilities include but not limited to:

• Support the Greenhouse Manager on daily tasks such as planting, transplanting, pruning, watering, weeding, mulching, and clean-up to ensure plant growth from seed to final product.
• Assist the Greenhouse Manager to maintain optimal greenhouse conditions (temperature, humidity, lighting) for healthy plant development.
• Assist with designing and executing flower/vegetable beds and maintain detailed growing records.
• Monitor plant health, identify issues, and implement treatments under the Greenhouse Manager’s guidance.
• Prepare orders, track supplies, and process requisitions for seeds, fertilizers, pest control, and tools.
• Maintain accurate logs of pesticide use, watering schedules, and other horticultural documentation.
• Facilitate plant care activities with Day Habilitation staff and coordinate volunteer tasks with Greenhouse Manager.
• Research and identify potential venues, farmers’ markets, pop-up events, and community fairs suitable for selling plants and merchandise. Coordinate logistics for off-site sales events, including setup, transportation, and display of products. Track and restock inventory, prepare displays, and help with plant labeling and pricing.
• Build partnerships, negotiate pricing, and contribute to social media promotion of greenhouse activities and events.
• Communicate operational concerns promptly and assist Greenhouse Manager with monthly reports on progress and challenges.
• Conduct property walk-throughs for maintenance and help create floral arrangements for events.
• Be flexible and ready to take on any other tasks or projects assigned by the Greenhouse Manager or supervisors, contributing to the overall success of the greenhouse operations.

This job description is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all activities, duties, or responsibilities required of the employee. Responsibilities and tasks may evolve or change at the discretion of the organization.

Physical Demands/Work Environment: The work generally requires extended periods of standing and walking and will require a moderate amount of bending, and the ability to handle and move merchandise weighing up to 50 lbs.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma required; associate or bachelor’s degree in horticulture, environmental science, or botany preferred.
• Prior experience working in a Greenhouse or Nursery required, three (3) or more years’ experience strongly preferred.
• Strong interpersonal, organizational and communication skills required.
• Experience with sales and marketing required.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite applications required.
• Valid NYS Driver’s License required. If you currently maintain an out-of-state driver’s license, you must transfer your license to NY State within 30 days of hire.
• Ability to work flex hours, including evenings and weekends, required.