Garden Operations Specialist

Greater Lansing Food Bank (GLFB) is seeking an individual to fill the role of garden operations specialist as a member of our garden project team. This position will support and maintain a network of community gardens, greenhouses, equipment, and facilities throughout Mid-Michigan, combining project management, property maintenance, equipment oversight, and hands-on problem-solving. The garden operations specialist is responsible for planning and completing projects that keep garden sites safe, functional, and productive, while supporting Garden Project's mission to increase community access to fresh food and gardening resources. The ideal candidate is organized, self-directed, an environmental steward, mechanically inclined, and comfortable working both independently and as part of a team. Successful candidates often have experience in facilities management, construction, landscaping, agriculture, horticulture, public works, environmental stewardship, or skilled trades.

This is a full-time, 36 base hours weekly, non-exempt position located in Bath, MI. Work hours are generally during normal business hours, Monday through Friday, with occasional early, evening and weekend hours seasonally. This position requires frequent outdoor work in a variety of weather conditions throughout the year.

Position Details

Date: July 2026

Title: Garden Operations Specialist

Classification: Nonexempt

Reports to: Garden Project Manager

Location: Bath, Michigan, with regular daily travel throughout GLFB's service region

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Design, build, maintain, and repair garden structures and site improvements, including fencing, raised beds, irrigation systems, sheds, pathways, and related assets
• Coordinate seasonal garden maintenance, including opening and closing activities
• Monitor garden conditions and identify maintenance, repair, and improvement needs
• Support soil health and site improvement efforts throughout the garden network
• Conduct site visits and provide recommendations for current and future garden locations
• Maintain and improve greenhouse facilities and related operations
• Assist with greenhouse production and plant propagation activities as needed
• Maintain records related to garden sites, maintenance schedules, and completed projects
• Plan, coordinate, and complete infrastructure and site improvement projects
• Develop project timelines and work plans
• Order materials and coordinate delivery of supplies and services
• Manage contractors and vendors when appropriate
• Identify opportunities to improve efficiency, safety, and functionality across garden sites
• Maintain Garden Project vehicles, equipment, tools, and machinery
• Coordinate routine maintenance and repairs for tractors, irrigation systems, small engines, and related equipment
• Maintain maintenance schedules and equipment records
• Identify facility maintenance needs and complete repairs when appropriate
• Coordinate specialized repairs with contractors or service providers
• Assist with equipment purchasing and replacement planning
• Provide direction and support to seasonal staff and volunteers
• Assist with Garden Project events and community engagement activities
• Assist other GLFB programs and departments when organizational needs require
• Perform other duties as assigned

QUALIFICATIONS

• Experience managing projects from planning through completion
• Experience in agriculture, horticulture, landscaping, construction, facilities maintenance, public works, skilled trades, or a related field
• Strong problem-solving and organizational skills
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities
• Strong communication and teamwork skills
• Basic computer proficiency, including Microsoft Office and electronic communication tools
• Valid driver's license and reliable transportation
• Ability to obtain a chauffeur's license (reimbursable by GLFB)
• Ability to lift 50 pounds and perform physical work including bending, kneeling, climbing, standing, and working outdoors for extended periods
• Experience operating tractors, farm equipment, and small-engine equipment
• Experience with irrigation systems, fencing, carpentry, or building maintenance
• Greenhouse or plant propagation experience
• Knowledge of community gardening, food production, or local food systems
• Understanding of environmental stewardship, soil health, sustainability, or conservation practices

Compensation and Benefits: GLFB offers a competitive compensation package, including paid medical/dental/vision insurance, 401k, vacation leave, sick leave, and paid holidays.

To apply

Please send cover letter, resume and salary requirements to Holly Pace-Hart, human resources specialist, at holly@glfoodbank.org . For additional information, please visit www.glfoodbank.org. Position remains open until filled. EOE. No phone calls please.

About Greater Lansing Food Bank

Founded in 1981, Greater Lansing Food Bank is a highly visible non-profit organization that provides food assistance to individuals and families in need in Ingham, Eaton, Clinton, Shiawassee, Clare, Isabella and Gratiot counties. Food is distributed through an extensive network of food pantries, shelters, community kitchens and mobile distributions throughout the seven-county service area.

GLFB is committed to fostering, cultivating and preserving a culture of equity, diversity and inclusion. We embrace and encourage our employees’ differences in age, color, disability, ethnicity, family status, gender identity or expression, language, national origin, physical and mental ability, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, socio-economic status, veteran status and other characteristics that make our employees unique.

Pay: $46,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Paid sick time
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person

Salary : $46,000