InJob Type: Ministerial 

Reports to: Senior Director 

Position Description 

This part-time position is crucial to the success of our indoor vertical garden, housed within a storage container. They will oversee the daily operations of the vertical growing system, ensuring optimal plant health and consistent yield of high-quality produce. This role involves a variety of hands-on tasks, including seeding, planting, harvesting, and processing of produce, all in adherence to strict food safety guidelines. The Horticulture Assistant will also be responsible for maintaining the cleanliness and sanitation of the facility, contributing to the efficient distribution of produce to our production kitchen and The Market, and maintaining accurate records of our growing efforts. 

As a vital part of Catholic Charities’ commitment to serving those in need, the Vertical Garden Program embodies Christ’s merciful love by providing fresh, nutritious produce to our community. Through sustainable urban farming practices, we strive to nourish bodies and spirits, promoting health and well-being among those we serve. 

Ministerial 

• As a ministerial representative of CCEOK, it is expected that both professional and social behavior be aligned with the ethical and moral standards of the Catholic Church  
• Pray daily for the needs of the poor; opportunities include personal prayer, daily Mass, and adoration  
• Willingness to learn how to articulate Catholic teaching with a commitment to its application in the job function  
• Execute duties in a Christ-like manner with love and compassion following the values and principles of the program, Catholic Charities and Catholic Social Teaching  

Key Responsibilities

• Cultivation & Production: Perform all aspects of plant cultivation, including seeding, planting, transplanting, watering, and harvesting various produce
• System Management: Monitor and adjust environmental controls, including lighting, nutrient delivery (growing minerals), and water levels to ensure optimal plant growth. 
• Quality & Safety Assurance: Ensure proper handling, packing, and storage of all harvested produce by strictly following Good Agricultural Practices (GAPs) and Food Safety Handling guidelines
• Facility Maintenance: Conduct regular cleaning and sanitation of production areas, equipment, and supplies to maintain a healthy growing environment
• Data & Records: Maintain accurate production logs, recording crop yields, plant health, and other relevant data
• Logistics Support: Assist with the distribution of harvested produce to the production kitchen and/or The Market
• Administrative Tasks: Complete data entry and other related office work as required throughout the growing season
• Perform other related duties as assigned by management

Qualifications & Skills

• High school diploma or equivalent; some college experience preferred
• 1-2 years of experience in urban farming, vertical farming, horticulture, or a related agricultural field
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple tasks and responsibilities effectively
• Reliable, self-motivated, and capable of working independently with minimal supervision
• Strong organizational skills with an emphasis on data record management
• Ability to safely lift and carry up to 50 pounds
• Food Handler’s Permit, Produce Safety Alliance Certification for safe crop handling, or training in Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) are a significant plus