Job Title:

Rita’s Roots Garden Guru

Contact:

Please email resume and letter of intent to rita@ritasroots.com

Location: Gardens throughout Charleston, West Ashley and the Islands,  nursery (Summerville)

Reports to: Rita Bachmann 

Company Values:

• Honesty – We believe in being transparent and open with our needs within the company and with our clients

• Hard Work – We self-motivate, show up for the job, and work diligently until the task is complete

• Family – We treat our team members and clients with the utmost respect

• Clean Living – We believe in living chemical-free lives, from the way we grow our food to the way we care for our mental and physical well-being

Position Overview:  

We seek a dedicated and enthusiastic team member to join our dynamic team. This role involves a variety of tasks related to client garden care across the Lowcountry. This position is perfect for someone who loves working outdoors, is a confident, knowledgeable vegetable and flower gardener, and is eager to contribute to a fast-paced, woman-owned small business.

Primary Responsibilities:

• Plant and maintain client gardens throughout the Lowcountry.

• Educate clients about their gardens during visits.

• Communicate confidently and knowledgeably with clients about their gardens.

• Work at plant sales on weekends during the sales season (Spring & Fall).

Secondary Responsibilities:

• Seed and pot up plants at our certified organic nursery.

• Care for and water plants at the nursery, in our greenhouses, and at pick-up locations (some weekends).

• Deliver plants to wholesale accounts.

• Participate in garden box installations with the team.

• Assist with tasks at our certified organic nursery in Summerville.

• Assist with construction and landscaping projects.

• Maintain the nursery site, including general upkeep and organization.

Additional Duties:

• Support other areas of the business as needed based on seasonality and direction from leadership.

• Adapt to various tasks and responsibilities as they arise.

Primary Job Requirements:

• 3+ years experience growing vegetable garden plants, preferably in the Lowcountry.

• Confident in ability to teach clients about organic gardening techniques

• Ability to perform all tasks needed for garden care, including carrying soil, amending, planting, seeding, watering, irrigation adjustments, pest management, pruning, and harvesting.

• Proficiency in using communication apps on a cell phone (e.g., taking photos, SLACK, Quickbooks Time).

• Ability to follow a daily schedule set by the manager.

• Reliable vehicle for transportation to and from work, with occasional use for company errands (mileage reimbursed). Must have a clean driving record and comfort navigating a vehicle around town.

Additional Required Abilities:

• Advocate for Rita’s Roots and our mission: “Taking the guesswork out of gardening”.

• Excellent people and communication skills.

• Problem-solving and innovation skills.

• Adaptability to quickly shift gears from one project to another.

• Willingness to get dirty and assist in various business areas as needed.

• Professional demeanor at all times.

• Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and ability to keep records.

• Multitasking ability and readiness to help wherever needed.

• Punctuality, self-motivation, and a positive attitude.

• Ability to follow directions and manage one’s schedule efficiently.

• Physical ability to lift, bend, squat, and carry 50+ pounds.

• Ability to work well with all team members.

• Capability to work long hours in varying weather conditions.

• Independent and team-oriented work capabilities.

• Effective and kind communication with team members and clients.

• Willingness to go above and beyond during peak seasons or challenging weather.

• Ability to read, understand, and implement company protocols outlined in the Team Member Handbook.

What We Offer:

 A collaborative and supportive work environment.

Opportunities for growth and learning in the field of organic gardening.

A chance to make a positive impact on our community by promoting sustainable gardening practices.

Hours per week: Flexible with most of the hours during 9a-5p Monday - Friday (guaranteed 40 hours for full-time employees). Weekend help is required for plant sales and watering hwhen in season (March-June/September-November).

Compensation: 

• Starting hourly rate negotiable based on years of experience ($20-$25/hr)

• 6 paid holidays, plus birthday

• 14 days PTO, per calendar year (prorated for new hires) does not roll-over

• semi-annual bonuses starting after 1 year of employment

• Monthly phone reimbursement for full-time employees ($50/mo)

• Garden Growers Club Membership

• Employee Discount on plants and gardening supplies

• Use of company vehicles during work hours.

If you are enthusiastic about gardening, enjoy hands-on work, and want to be part of a dedicated team, we would love to hear from you! Apply today to join us in creating beautiful and sustainable gardens across the Lowcountry.