Company description

Here at the AYCC, we have something for everyone. Whether you’re a young professional looking for fitness classes after work, a parent in need of childcare and introductory swim classes or an active older adult or senior ready for a new fitness challenge, we’ve got you covered. Check out our programming and find your favorite activity or try something new. We’re glad you’re here.

Job description

POSITION SUMMARY: The AYCC is looking for a plant enthusiast! If you are looking to utilize your gardening skills and be a part of the community, you could be a perfect fit for the AYCC's Gardens & Childcare Assistant position. This is a full-time (35-40 hours per week) position split between the school-age childcare program and the garden program. As part of the garden program, assist in the upkeep and maintenance of the gardens and growing spaces, help to provide fresh produce for the various kitchen/food programs, and create learning activities. As part of the childcare program, lead a group of children in After-School program activities as well as guide/help the children adjust and grow within the program guidelines.

Benefits!

• Health Insurance
• Dental Insurance
• Life Insurance
• Supplemental Insurance
• Short Term and Long Term Disability
• The possibility of free or reduced childcare
• A free AYCC Family Membership
• Once qualifications are completed, the candidate will be eligible for the Maine DHHS monthly childcare worker salary supplement. Depending on credentials, experience, and education, this monthly bonus starts at $240 and can be as high as $540.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

Garden and Greenhouse:

• Support the processes necessary for the acquisition, organization, and maintenance of materials, resources, and plants that will sustain a working garden and greenhouse. This program supplies vegetables for the AYCC Kid’s Kitchen program and the Greenhouse to Your House initiative; along with other community or youth initiatives.
• Garden maintenance at the AYCC main building including the Community Gardens and youth program gardens.
• Lead activities for groups of children in the garden; responsible for a group of up to 13 children. Develop activities for youth engagement with the garden, nature, food & cooking and outdoor education.
• Support the planning, seedling care and event implementation for the Annual AYCC Seedling Sale each spring (May).
• Assist with events and plant sales
• Encourage enthusiasm for gardening and agriculture in the children

After School Program:

• Responsible for a group of thirteen (13) children, helping each child adjust and grow with other children within the program guidelines.
• Plan and implement daily curriculum for children to follow
• Assist the children in activities
• Be a role model for the children and help them to develop their own skills

SKILLS & COMPETENCIES:

• Excellent communication skills along with an understanding of youth development.
• Personality and temperament that encourages confidence, trust, and respect from the members and staff and public within the mission of the AYCC.
• Organizational skills & attention to detail.
• Maintain confidentiality.
• Ability to comply with organic growing practices.

Requirements:

KNOWLEDGE/EDUCATION/CERTIFICATION:

• HS diploma or equivalent; formal education in horticulture or a closely related field is desirable.
• Prior skills and knowledge in growing and maintaining a productive garden and greenhouse and knowledge and experience with different greenhouse growing techniques.
• Willing to train or become certified in areas that are required to uphold safety or OSHA standards.
• A valid driver’s license preferred, but not necessary.
• Must be 18 years of age or older.

EXPERIENCE:

• At least 1 year of experience working in an agricultural setting or program along with some experience working with youth and community members.
• Prior instructional and curriculum experience with elementary and middle school age students is desirable, along with basic childcare skills.

WORK SCHEDULE: Full-time 40 position with varying hours depending on the needs of the garden program. Some weekend hours may be needed. Childcare hours will be mostly afternoons, except during out-of-school time, such as vacations or school closure days.

Compensation

this position is: hourly, $15-20/hr

Application instructions

If you are not registered, you'll be prompted to do so. Don't worry, it's free!

Deadline

no deadline