Horticulture Training Specialist

The Arc Erie County NY is a leading nonprofit supporting people with developmental & intellectual disabilities across Western New York, through innovative residential, educational, clinical and employment services. Proudly celebrating our 75th anniversary, we remain committed to empowering individuals and building inclusive communities. Position Now Available: Horticulture Training SpecialistOverview Our Horticulture Training Specialist is responsible for delivering hands-on horticulture instruction and vocational training to individuals with disabilities. Schedule: This is a full-time (40 hrs. per week) position with a flexible schedule to meet the program needs. Some evening and weekend hours may be required. Work location may vary based on program operations Pay rate: $19.00 - $23.75/hr. based on experienceKey Duties Develop and implement a horticulture curriculum Conduct hands-on horticulture instruction to prepare students for entry-level employment Create volunteer opportunities that utilize students' horticulture skills to benefit the community Plan implement and maintain a 3-season garden at Wilson Rd location and Black Water Acres in Alden Flexible schedule is required based on department needs and growing season as staff will need to be available evening and weekends when applicable to run events such as farmers markets, vendor shows, etc.. Qualifications Bachelor's degree in Horticulture, Agriculture and/ or a related field plus 1-year experience in the industry OR Associates degree in Horticulture, Agriculture and/ or a related field plus 3-years experience in the industry OR High school diploma plus 5 years' experience in the industry Perks Affordable Benefits (Medical, Dental & Vision) Great Work-Life balance On the job paid training On-demand pay 403b w/ employer contribution Immediate PTO See our full job description below: Job Description Job Title: Horticulture Training Specialist Department: Vocational and Employment Services Job Grade: 3 Position Summary: The Horticulture Training Specialist is responsible for delivering hands-on horticulture instruction and vocational training to individuals with disabilities. This role supports skill development, employment readiness, and career pathways in horticulture, landscaping, and agricultural settings while maintaining safe, productive, and inclusive learning environments. The Horticulture Training Specialist facilitates daily training sessions and provides additional classes and instruction to individuals supported by the agency, as well as agency employees, as appropriate. The position is responsible for planning, planting, and implementing a structured horticulture training program at the three-season garden located at the Wilson Road sites. This position works collaboratively across all growing, farming, and gardening projects across the Agency sites as needed/required. The Horticulture Training Specialist is also responsible for managing the program budget, including oversight of program costs, maintaining required certifications, maximizing enrollment, and ensuring efficient utilization of horticulture training spaces. Reporting Relationship: Reports to the Specialized Workforce Training Center Coordinator and secondly to the Director of Vocational and Employment Services. Job Duties and Responsibilities: Develop and implement a horticulture curriculum. Conduct hands-on horticulture instruction to prepare students for entry-level employment. Develop lesson plans based on curriculum. Administer written and practical tests to measure progress. Document and report on each student's ability to comprehend, perform, and retain horticulture techniques. Work one-on-one with students to ensure comprehension of lessons. Recruit and maintain relationships with horticulture professionals for volunteer opportunities. Oversee ordering, setting up, and cleanup for lessons and guest presentations. Create volunteer opportunities that utilize students' horticulture skills to benefit the community. Assist with student recruitment. Conduct interviews and evaluate candidates. Develop internship sites, identify mentors, and build employer partnerships. Participate in special events including plant sales, seasonal events, and demonstrations. Complete all documentation and regulatory training in a timely manner. Plan implement and maintain a 3-season garden at Wilson Rd location and Black Water Acres in Alden Flexible schedule is required based on department needs and growing season as staff will need to be available evening and weekends when applicable to run events such as farmers markets, vendor shows, etc.. All other duties as assigned by supervisor Qualifications and Education Requirements Bachelor's Degree in Horticulture, Agriculture and/or a related field PLUS one year of full-time experience in the industry. OR Associate's degree in Horticulture, Agriculture and/or a related field PLUS three years of full-time experience in the industry. OR High school diploma PLUS five years of full-time experience in the industry. PLUS One year full-time direct service experience working with individuals with a disability is preferred. Have experience as an instructor of a service program and have high degree of technical ability to relay information in a manner that provides a positive learning experience and instills a passion for the profession. Possess the administrative and technological skills adequate to build course materials and have the ability to demonstrate concern and sensitivity toward culinary trainees and their individual needs and learning styles. Must be Multi-Media First Aid Certified or receive certification within ninety (90) days from date of hire. Must have a valid NYS Driver's license, approved driving record and reliable transportation to all parts of greater Erie County area. Essential Job Functions: Physical demands and Exposure Risk outlined on attached form (A) Equipment We must be able to use and train individuals on horticulture equipment including hand tools, power tools, lawn and garden equipment, irrigation systems, and greenhouse equipment. Mental Requirements: The ability to read, write, analyze, be perceptive/comprehensive, show good judgment & decision-making skills, be skillful in creative problem solving, basic math skills, independent action, planning & prioritizing and follow directions. Work independently as well as cooperatively with others. Be approachable, enthusiastic, personable, work under pressure and meet job-related deadlines; accordingly, available to work flexible hours. Human Relations Skills: The ability to communicate with individuals in a positive manner demonstrates the ability to serve as an appropriate role model to program participants and co-workers. Receive supervision instruction in a positive manner. Adhere to and administer Agency's policies, procedures, rules, and regulations. Always maintain a professional attitude and appearance. Agency Principles: All staff members will ensure and demonstrate the promotion of fundamental rights and protections for the people that we support. These include practices that treat people with dignity and respect at all times, ensure safety, best possible health/well-being and provide the person with continuity and personal security through the use of natural support, positive relationships and opportunities for integration in the community. Staff members should also advocate and work toward assisting the people we support through person-centered planning to achieve the personal outcome goals that they have chosen by facilitating the plans and positive supports necessary to assist the person in progressing toward each outcome. Demonstrates the agency values of integrity, respect, responsibility, trust, teamwork, positive attitude, learning and honesty in working with students (persons), families, colleagues and members of our community. Good attendance is vital for the efficient and effective operation of quality programming and is an essential job function of this position. This position is NON-EXEMPT from the overtime requirements of the Fair Labor Standard Act. The Arc Erie County New York retains the right to change this job description at any time. "The Arc Erie County New York is an Equal Opportunity Employer" The Arc Erie County NY is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) & Affirmative Action Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identify or expression, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic under applicable federal, state, or local law.

Created: 2026-03-14