Horticultural Center Coordinator

Milton Hershey School (MHS) is one of the world’s best pre-K through 12th grade private schools, where students from disadvantaged backgrounds are provided with a cost-free home and a top-notch education.  Thanks to the generosity of Milton and Catherine Hershey in 1909, the school is fully endowed today, with the resources to ensure students can thrive.  The school has prepared over 12,000 graduates to lead fulfilling and productive lives and is expanding to serve more students.

Milton Hershey School (MHS) is seeking a Horticultural Center Coordinator to lead its year-round horticultural program, providing students with enriching experiences that enhance their academic growth while developing life and career skills.  The Horticultural Center is part of the overall Agricultural and Environmental Education program that also includes an Animal Center. 

Position Details:

• Location: On-site in Hershey, PA
• Compensation: $61,500 – $82,000 (based on experience) + benefits package
• Work schedule: Year-round, includes evening and weekend responsibilities

Responsibilities:

• Collaborate with faculty to design and deliver horticultural experiences that support academics, home life, and career exploration.
• Develop and facilitate student programs for after-school and summer experiences, including clubs, employment, and off-campus activities.
• Network with industry professionals to provide students with internships, co-ops, and career exposure opportunities.
• Co-lead the Project Market, offering students hands-on learning in horticulture and business operations.
• Oversee horticultural resources, including greenhouses, a hydroponics lab, gardens, berry fields, orchards, and all horticultural related equipment and assets.
• Supervise full-time and part-time staff, along with student workers.
• Manage budgets and administrative operations, ensuring efficiency and sustainability.
• Support greenhouse and garden management, including cultivar selection, crop scheduling, and harvesting.
• Utilize greenhouse mechanical systems and integrated pest and fungicide management strategies.

Qualifications:

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Horticultural Sciences, Science Education, or a related field.
• Experience: Minimum three years designing and delivering engaging horticultural relevant education.
• Certifications: PA Driver’s license in good standing; Commercial Pesticide License & CPR certifications desired.
• Preferred Experience: Supervisory experience and expertise in hydroponics a plus.
• Technical Skills: Knowledge of pest management, including pesticides and fungicides.
• Proficiency in Technology: Microsoft applications, Google Docs, and databases.
• Interpersonal Skills: Strong communication skills to effectively engage with students, faculty, and industry professionals.  Exceptional collaborating skills.
• Organizational & Administrative Skills: Ability to manage competing priorities effectively.  Strong budget management skills.
• Integrity & Student Engagement: Must be a role model, demonstrating a high level of integrity and enthusiasm for student development.