What are the responsibilities and job description for the Hydroponic Classroom Operation Specialist position at New York Sun Works?
About NY Sun Works
NY Sun Works is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to bringing quality sustainability science and climate education to K-12 city schools. Through our Hydroponic Classrooms, we provide hands-on learning experiences that foster scientific inquiry and environmental stewardship. We bring quality education to the communities where it’s most needed. Together with our 300 partner schools, we're shaping the next generation of environmental innovators empowered to create solutions to global climate challenges.
NY Sun Works serves a diverse population of students primarily across the five boroughs of New York City, with a small but growing number of schools in the greater metropolitan area. We strive to make our program accessible to all types of learners, including those who require special accommodations, and is designed to be inclusive and culturally responsive.
NY Sun Works is an EPA, NAAEE, and HBSCNY award-winning organization, and maintains a platinum-rated status on Guidestar and a top-rated status on Great NonProfits.
JOB DESCRIPTION
NY Sun Works is looking to fill a part-time position on the Hydroponics and Aquaponics Lab Team. The team members will work with the Operations Manager, the Director of CEA Operations, and staff to maintain existing hydroponic labs and help build new Hydroponic Classrooms at NY Sun Works school partners.
Training will be provided with the goal of self sufficiency. Maintenance of existing Hydroponic Classrooms entails: water quality testing, plant/fish care, systems troubleshooting and overall lab cleaning and organizing; as well as regularly working with teachers and helping guide timelines for seeding and harvesting. Building new labs involves organizing layout, delivery, and assembly of all lab equipment, and educating teachers and other school staff on hydroponic lab procedures.
The job requires strong mechanical skills. If your friends call you to put together Ikea furniture and you enjoy it, this might be a good fit for you!
The Team Member is a part-time position, spent primarily on-site in Hydroponic Classrooms at NY Sun Works K-12 partner schools throughout the five boroughs of New York City and New Jersey.
Salary is $20 per hour during training, $22 per hour after successful completion of training, and $24 to $26 after 60-90 days of qualified work. Interviews will begin in July.
Start date: mid/ late August 2026
Potential for growth within the organization.
Candidates should be passionate about the NY Sun Works mission and deeply committed to science, sustainability, and education in the urban environment. They should also be willing to commute to multiple sites in one day.
An ideal candidate has a track record that includes:
- Relevant work experience
- Strong mechanical skills
- Able to carry 40 lbs.
- Exceptional organizational skills
- Exceptional communication and customer service skills
- Experience working alone and as part of a team
- Comfortable teaching others
- Comfortable working in a constantly changing environment
- Knowledge of Hydroponics and Aquaponics a plus but not required
- Non-profit experience a plus
- (Vehicle) Driver's license a (big) plus but not necessary
IMPORTANT: During the training period, employees can expect to travel to all 5 boroughs as part of their training experience. After the training period, we will try to pair employees in their preferred borough. PLEASE indicate which borough you prefer to work in on your application.
How to Apply:
To apply for this exciting opportunity, please submit your resume, cover letter, and the contact details of three professional references here or Simon Collins, HR at simon@nysunworks.org.
We are eager to learn more about your accomplishments and how your unique skills and experiences can make a positive impact on our team.
APPLICATION DEADLINE: Applications are accepted on a rolling basis until the position is filled; early applications are encouraged. Please note that due to the volume anticipated, we will not be able to respond individually to each applicant. We kindly ask that you do not send duplicate applications via mail or email, and no phone calls.
Research suggests that women and structurally marginalized and/or underrepresented groups of people believe they need to meet 100% of the requirements in job postings to apply.
NY Sun Works encourages anyone who believes they have the skills and motivation necessary to succeed here to apply for this role, even if you don’t meet 100% of the qualifications, as no one applicant ever does.
New York Sun Works is an equal-opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will be considered for employment without unlawful discrimination based on race, color, creed, national origin, sex, age, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, military status, prior record of arrest or conviction, citizenship status, current employment status, or caregiver status.
New York Sun Works values diverse experiences, including with regard to educational background and justice system contact, and depends on a diverse staff to carry out our mission.
For more information about New York Sun Works’ mission, please visit www.nysunworks.org.
Job Type: Part-time
Pay: $20.00 - $26.00 per hour
Benefits:
- Flexible schedule
- Paid sick time
- Paid time off
Ability to Commute:
- New York, NY 10023 (Required)
Work Location: Hybrid remote in New York, NY 10023
Salary : $20 - $26