Grounds Assistant

Part-time (20-25 hours/week)

The grounds assistant is responsible for monitoring activities on the grounds, greeting visitors and ensuring they have a safe experience that aligns with Conservancy policies. Other duties while onsite may include general repairs and cleaning, and maintenance of the grounds and buildings.  This position is based in Woodstock, with availability during the week and occasional weekends.

The hourly rate is $15-18/hour, and as a part-time employee benefits are not included.

Duties include:

  • General monitoring of the property to ensure visitors have a safe experience that aligns with Conservancy policies.
  • Grounds work such as clearing down branches or trees, garden maintenance, snow clearing, trash pick up, nature playspace monitoring and maintenance, trail maintenance and animal care. 
  • Cleaning and maintenance of grounds and buildings.
  • Assisting visitors in emergency situations or when appropriate.
  • Monitoring photographers to ensure they have a permit.
  • Emptying trash in the Composting toilet.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Requirements:

  • Associates degree or higher.
  • 2+ years experience in environmental field.
  • Ability to handle multiple tasks and roles patiently and professionally.
  • Proven communication skills and solid decision-making skills.
  • Work effectively with a variety of staff, volunteers, and visitors.
  • Experience with weed whackers, backpack blowers, and other grounds equipment preferred.

The Howard County Conservancy is a 35-year-old nonprofit nature center and land trust.  Our home base is the 232-acre Mt. Pleasant Farm in Woodstock, MD. We also operate a Nature Preschool at Belmont Manor and Historic Park in Elkridge, MD. Our grounds feature 5 miles of trails, native, pollinator and community gardens and the only historic farmstead open to the public in Howard County. We reach more than 30,000 people each year through our pre k-12th grade environmental education programs and a rich variety of programs for the community. To accomplish our work, the Conservancy employs full time staff, part time staff, seasonal staff, interns and a cadre of committed volunteers.

The Conservancy seeks to foster a vibrant community where environmentally aware, engaged and responsible stewards can thrive. Our three-prong mission focuses on education, preservation and stewardship of our environment.  We are committed to integrating diversity, equity and inclusion practices both internally and externally through our programmatic activities and community outreach. Our strategic plan goals include: Be a trusted educator, resource and convener; Ensure all aspects of the Conservancy mirror the community it serves; Expand conservation and restoration opportunities; Integrate DEI priorities both internally and externally.

The Conservancy is an equal opportunity employer. The Conservancy assesses candidates’ applications and qualifications regardless of race, ethnicity, age, gender, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, disability, economic status and other diverse backgrounds.

To apply send your resume to: talita.lucena@howardnature.org