Aquaponic Garden Technician

POSITION SUMMARY

Under the supervision of the Facilities Manager, and with technical guidance from the Project Consultant, the Aquaponic Garden Technician is responsible for the daily operation, care, and operational readiness of the Next Generation Hydroponic and Recirculating Agriculture System (RAgS) — an integrated aquaponics, hydroponics, and regenerative farming environment. This closed-loop system combines aquaculture (fish production), soil-less plant cultivation, and nutrient cycling through biological filtration and mineralization to produce fresh, locally grown food year-round.

Beyond crop production, the Technician supports the garden's mission as a community-based learning environment for environmental education, workforce development, and family engagement. The Technician is responsible for manning the garden area, maintaining crop and system health, ensuring crops are properly watered and cared for, and preparing the space for tours, classes, and community events.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

The following duties are essential functions of this position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these essential functions.

A. Crop and System Management

• Monitor crops daily for common growth, health, insect, and disease challenges; identify issues early and relay any quality or pest concerns to the Project Consultant.
• Ensure the health and productivity of over 100 crops across hydroponic and aquaponic growing systems.
• Understand and implement irrigation, nutrient dosing, and fertilization protocols as directed by the Project Consultant; provide direction and supervision to team members or volunteers executing these tasks.
• Create and help implement a plant nutrition program appropriate to the recirculating system.
• Ensure crops are consistently watered, fed, and cared for according to established schedules.
• Successfully attain a passing grade on required moisture management and water quality training at the first available session after being hired.

B. Aquaponics and Recirculating System Care

• Maintain the health of the aquaculture (fish) component, including feeding, monitoring fish stock, and observing for signs of stress or disease.
• Monitor and maintain water quality parameters critical to a closed-loop aquaponic system, including pH, ammonia, nitrite, nitrate, dissolved oxygen, and temperature.
• Oversee the biological filtration and mineralization processes that cycle nutrients from fish waste to plants, keeping the nitrogen cycle balanced and the system in equilibrium.
• Monitor and maintain circulation, aeration, and filtration equipment to keep the recirculating system running efficiently.
• Recognize and respond to imbalances between the fish, bacteria, and plant components before they affect crop or fish health.

C. Equipment and Facility Maintenance

• Ensure the irrigation system, pumps, filtration units, worm tea extractor, and all related equipment are in good working condition.
• Perform preventative maintenance on equipment and tools.
• Report all unsafe or hazardous conditions to the Facilities Manager immediately.
• Keep the garden organized, clean, and presentable at all times, especially for tours and events.

D. Community, Education, and Events

• Prepare and set up the garden space for events, classes, tours, and community programming, or assign a designee to do so.
• Support educational programming by engaging children, families, and visitors with the garden and its systems.
• Safely manage food giveaways and the distribution of harvested produce.
• Assist with community volunteer events as directed.
• Serve as an on-site point of contact during operating hours.

E. Health, Safety, and Compliance

• Ensure the garden environment meets applicable health and safety standards for a setting serving children and families.
• Maintain and protect the confidentiality and privacy of children, families, and staff at all times.
• Perform additional duties as assigned by Administration, provided such duties are consistent with this position's classification, program needs, and applicable law.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Experience in horticulture, aquaponics, hydroponics, aquaculture, or a related agricultural field, or a demonstrated willingness to learn.
• Basic understanding of water chemistry and biological systems, or the ability to complete required training.
• Ability to make basic repairs to growing systems and equipment.
• Knowledge of the English language; ability to follow directions when handling chemical solvents, nutrients, and cleaning equipment.
• Skills to exhibit caution when working with hazardous materials and equipment.
• Strong communication skills and comfort engaging with children, families, and community members.
• Ability to work independently and manage daily task schedules.
• Valid Florida Driver's License preferred; ability to work evenings or weekends as needed.
• Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds and to stand for extended periods.

Background and Compliance Requirements

• Must successfully complete a Level 2 background screening as required by Florida law prior to employment and at each required renewal interval.
• Must maintain current health screenings, and tuberculosis (TB) testing in accordance with program and state requirements.
• Must comply with LJCC's Code of Conduct and adhere to mandatory reporting obligations under Florida's child abuse and neglect laws.

WORKING CONDITIONS AND PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

Work is performed in and around the aquaponic garden, including indoor and outdoor settings and regular contact with water. The position requires physical activity including lifting up to 50 pounds, bending, and standing for extended periods. Reasonable accommodations will be provided for qualified individuals with disabilities in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act.