Nursery Operations & Education Technician

Job Description

Job Description

Shaker Trace Nursery is entering an exciting new chapter. With recent renovations and expanded public access, we are growing not only native plants, but opportunities for people to connect with them. Join our team as a Nursery Operations & Education Technician and help cultivate both healthy ecosystems and meaningful community experiences. Great Parks is seeking a qualified professional to support day-to-day nursery operations while helping expand educational programming at this growing site.

Based at Shaker Trace Nursery, this position assists with plant propagation, seed collection and processing, weeding, volunteer workdays, and other routine nursery tasks. The Technician will also lead site tours, support workshops and educational programs, represent the nursery at off-site outreach events, and assist with on-site plant sales. This unique role blends hands-on nursery work with public-facing education and community engagement.

This year-round position will average 15 hours per week and includes evening and weekend shifts. The ideal candidate is able to communicate clearly, think on their feet, and engage children and adults alike through interactive, hands-on experiences. The Technician must be comfortable working outdoors in all seasons and leading volunteer groups in natural areas. From guided tours to skill-building workshops, this individual will help welcome people of all backgrounds and experience levels to connect with the mission of Shaker Trace Nursery.

At Great Parks, our team members work together to preserve and protect natural resources and to provide outdoor recreation and education in order to enhance the quality of life for present and future generations. Be a part of an inclusive organization that enriches the region by inspiring nature-based experiences, celebrating cultural heritage and building strong and healthy communities through our dedicated staff, volunteers, and friends.

Responsibilities:

• Supports nursery operations including up-potting and dividing plants, pot cleaning, watering, seed collecting and processing, and other routine nursery duties.
• Co-leads volunteer workdays with long-time nursery volunteers and one-time volunteer groups.
• Keeps detailed records on nursery tasks and seed collection activities.
• Assists in maintaining production beds, demonstration gardens, and formal landscapes through weeding, herbicide application, and the use of machine tools once proper training is completed.
• Prepares and presents inclusive interpretive programs focused on native plants, wildlife, environmental topics and sustainability to diverse groups and individuals.
• Leads site tours for groups and the general public to raise awareness about the nursery.
• Conducts research to develop program topics; communicates factual information in an accurate, educational and entertaining manner utilizing experiential learning techniques wherever possible.
• Engages in learning to enhance knowledge of interpretive techniques, learning styles, program planning, local flora and fauna, etc.
• Assists in maintaining required records and reports to measure programming effectiveness. Originates emails, correspondence, charts, and other documents as required.
• Represents Great Parks in a positive manner; provides general park information and answers inquiries as needed; collects and deposits program fees.
• Develops interpretive themes and content shared through various sources such as print, web and kiosks.
• Monitors the safety of trails, production beds and interpretive areas; promptly reports problems.
• Works and communicates effectively with other departments, leadership, volunteers and peers; attends and participates in meetings; completes required training.
• Provides assistance with special events, plant sales, and other tasks assigned by the Shaker Trace Nursery Manager.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Associate’s Degree in Horticulture, Biology, or related field preferred with at least 1-year related experience which evidences a comprehensive knowledge of native plants and the natural world.
• Ability to document identity and employment eligibility within three (3) days of original appointment as a condition of employment in compliance with Immigration Reform and Control Act requirements.

LICENSE & CERTIFICATION REQUIREMENTS

• State Motor Vehicle Operator’s License meeting GPHC current carrier guidelines.

Benefits include membership in Ohio Public Employees Retirement System and free or discounted use of many Great Parks’ recreational activities.

Great Parks is an equal employment opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, sex, age, national origin, ancestry, disability, military status, or any other classification protected under applicable law.