Operations Assistant

Description

Operations Assistant

Department: Facilities

Supervisor: Director of Facilities

Supervises: N/A 

FLSA Salary Classification: Non-Exempt

Revision Date: July 2025 

Availability: This position primarily requires evening hours, typically from 3:30 p.m. until close on weekdays, three to four days per week, with at least one 8-hour shift on weekends. Some holiday availability is also required. The position may be designated as either part-time or full-time, depending on the selected candidate’s availability and qualifications.

Position Summary:

Performs the Garden’s daily grounds and equipment maintenance in order to provide a safe, healthy, and inviting environment that reflects the standards of operation of the organization. Performs Garden opening and/or closing responsibilities on a rotating schedule. Respond to maintenance or setup needs when primary maintenance staff isn’t present. Adheres to policies, procedures and systems that support the overall mission and strategies of the organization through maintaining the facilities, assets, support systems and physical appearance of the Garden in an exceptional manner.

Essential Functions:  

• Performs site maintenance services including but not limited to; assisting with exhibit installation, installing/ moving directional signage, pathway repairs, and guest experience enhancements (i.e., water features, train).
• Works independently and with other department staff to perform basic facilities maintenance tasks, which may include; trash pickup, parking, clearing pathways, opening and closing activities, etc.
• Assists with support of Garden Security by checking and securing buildings, gates, structures, and Garden property.
• Assists department with policy/procedure documentation, maintenance planning/documentation and maintaining/ inspecting/ documenting guest experience enhancements.
• Participates in and supports the usage of automated systems needed for records management related to Facilities work orders, equipment, specifications and supplies management. 
• Provides day to day support of outdoor Garden activity needs related to grounds usage, venue rentals, outdoor event setup, trash removal, and security.  
• Works with volunteer resources applicable to departmental projects and operations. 
• Assists in providing a safe and accessible workplace is maintained in compliance with OSHA, ADA and all other regulatory requirements. Follows best practices that may contribute to the Garden’s safety and wellness.
• Works collaboratively with members of the facilities department as well other departments to support both the goals of the department as well as the entire organization. 
• Assists with or directly perform duties related to facility maintenance or equipment maintenance and performs other duties as assigned.

Requirements

Minimum Qualifications:  

• High School Diploma or G.E.D. required and at least 6 months experience in general maintenance, repair, custodial, security, or other hands on technical field.

Success Factors:

• Exemplifies the Gardens Core Values and has a true desire to collaborate with others to better a process, idea, or task.? Embrace the Garden’s mission of plant conservation, education, and research.   
• Ability to work independently to meet multiple deadlines. A self-starter who excels at problem solving and the ability to identify issues and consider multiple solutions. Enthusiastic learner who demonstrates a strong attention to esthetics detail.  
• Strong knowledge of general maintenance disciplines. 
• Ability to efficiently use a computer including online programs like asset management, work order systems, online sourcing and ordering of parts, and standard Microsoft applications like word and excel.  
• Strong interpersonal communication skills. Maintains high standards and effective communications of the performance expectation for departmental staff. 
• Decision making skills, time management skills and the ability to prioritize.   

Preferred Qualifications:  

• Practical, hand-on experience and knowledge of electrical troubleshooting/ repair, plumbing or other maintenance/ construction trades is a plus.
• Valid driver’s license and a safe driving record are preferred to support occasional operational needs.

Physical Demands and Work Environment:

The physical demands and work environment characteristics described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully per