Gardening Specialist

 

The Bloomington Parks and Recreation Department seeks a Community Garden Supervisor to maintain the overall appearance and function of the Willie Streeter, Rev. Ernest D. Butler Park, and Switchyard Park Community Gardens. The ideal candidate will clearly and consistently communicate with the Community Gardens Program Specialist; take initiative in developing and coordinating projects with the Community Gardens Program Specialist and other Parks and garden staff; have some flexibility in scheduling due to weather, special events, or other garden needs; maintain positive relations with gardeners and provide advice when requested; promptly and clearly communicate rules and policies with gardeners both in-person and by phone and email; promote gardening that emphasizes soil conservation practices and use of organic methods; help plan and assist with garden classes and events; coordinate and lead volunteer groups of up to 25 people in the gardens; track maintenance of garden equipment and promptly request maintenance when required; be willing to perform ongoing, often physically demanding, garden/compost preparation and maintenance in most weather conditions; gain familiarity with departmental policies and procedures; perform a public relations function by acting as a spokesperson for the gardens and the department; and perform other duties as assigned.

 

High school education or any equivalent combination of education and experience which provides the required knowledge, skills and abilities. Some college preferred.

 

Relevant gardening/farming/landscaping experience and demonstrated ability to work well with the public and with colleagues/supervisors. Familiarity and working knowledge of Google Workspace is essential. Program administration experience is a plus.

 

Candidate will possess genuine enthusiasm for horticulture, working outdoors, and interaction with the public. Candidate will have the ability to clearly communicate/collaborate with and take direction from the Program Specialist, take initiative, assess and prioritize tasks, self-direct/work independently, exercise good judgment, and possess excellent verbal and written communication skills. Ability to work well with a diverse set of people, supervise others, withstand public complaints, act as a resource for gardener participants, and enforce program rules. Candidate should be able to lift at least 50 lbs., have a solid working knowledge of tools and powered landscaping equipment, and be willing and able to withstand hot weather and all-weather working conditions.

Current Adult, Child and Infant CPR and First Aid certifications or ability to obtain. Valid driver’s license required.

March – November, 20-30 hours per week. Evenings, days, early mornings, and weekends, are frequently required.

$16.72 per hour

APPLICANTS APPLYING FOR THIS POSITION MAY BE SUBJECT TO A CRIMINAL HISTORY CHECK. DIRECT DEPOSIT IS A REQUIRED CONDITION OF EMPLOYMENT.

Anyone wishing to apply for this position must submit an application to Bloomington Parks & Recreation Office either in person during business hours (401 N. Morton Street, Suite 250), by mail (P.O. Box 848, Bloomington, IN 47402), or by email (parks@bloomington.in.gov). Primary consideration will be given to applications received on or prior to Friday, February 18, 2022, but the position will remain open until filled.

The City of Bloomington does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, ancestry, marital status, national origin, religion, age, or disability status in employment or the provision of services. The City of Bloomington validates authorization to work using e Verify. The City will provide the Social Security Administration and, if necessary the Department of Homeland Security, with the information from each new employee’s I-9 form to confirm work authorization.