Full-Time, Ongoing Position (Immediate Start)
THE ROLE
Position: Market Gardener
Employment Type: Full-Time, Ongoing
Employment Start Date: Immediate Start
FTE/Time Fraction: 1.0 FTE (38 hours per week)
Location: Back Creek Campus, Scotsburn
Christian College Geelong is seeking an enthusiastic and experienced Market Gardener to lead the planning, development, and day-to-day operation of the Market Garden at our Back Creek Campus.
This exciting role combines practical market gardening expertise with student engagement and education. Reporting to the Director of Back Creek Rural Program, you will be responsible for developing a productive and sustainable market garden, creating authentic “Paddock to Plate” learning experiences, and mentoring students through all stages of food production.
The successful applicant will play a key role in helping students develop a deeper understanding of sustainable agriculture, food systems, and environmental stewardship while contributing to the broader Rural Program.
SELECTION CRITERIA
To be considered for this role, please address the following criteria in your application. Your responses should contain relevant examples:
- Demonstrated experience and/or qualifications in market gardening, horticulture, agriculture, or a related field, including planning, cultivation, harvesting, and garden maintenance.
- Knowledge of sustainable, regenerative, and environmentally responsible gardening and farming practices.
- Experience working with, teaching, mentoring, or supervising young people, apprentices, trainees, or volunteers in a practical learning environment.
- Ability to develop and deliver engaging, hands-on educational experiences that connect learners to food production and sustainability.
- Demonstrated commercial awareness, including the ability to identify and develop small-scale produce sales opportunities.
- Strong organisational and planning skills, with the ability to manage multiple projects and seasonal priorities simultaneously.
- Experience operating and maintaining horticultural tools, equipment, and irrigation systems safely and effectively.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build positive relationships with students, staff, and the wider community.
- Demonstrated ability to work independently while contributing positively to a collaborative team environment.
- Commitment to workplace health and safety, child safety, and best practice risk management.
- Current Level 2 First Aid Qualifications.
WHAT YOU BRING
We are seeking a candidate who demonstrates:
- Support for the Christian ethos, values, and mission of Christian College Geelong.
- A genuine passion for gardening, agriculture, and sustainable food production.
- A commitment to educating and inspiring young people through practical learning experiences.
- Strong initiative, problem-solving ability, and attention to detail.
- Excellent organisational and time management skills.
- Reliability, flexibility, and a willingness to contribute to the wider Rural Program.
- The ability to model positive values and build respectful relationships with students and colleagues.
WHAT WE OFFER
- Professional learning and development opportunities.
- A welcoming, supportive, and faith-based workplace.
- The opportunity to work within a unique and innovative Rural Program.
- Access to our Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for wellbeing support.
- Access to gym facilities and swimming pools at selected campuses.
- Complimentary annual flu vaccinations.
- Discounted holiday accommodation at Back Creek Farm, the college’s scenic rural property, providing staff and their families with unique opportunity to rest, recharge and enjoy the countryside.
CHILD SAFE COMMITMENT
Christian College Geelong is committed to the safety, wellbeing, and protection of all children and young people in our care. All applicants are expected to demonstrate an understanding of, and commitment to, child safety standards. The successful applicant will be required to hold a current Employee Working with Children Check and comply with the College’s Child Safety policies and Code of Conduct.
*To view or download a Position Description, please see below
TO APPLY
If you are passionate about sustainable food production, enjoy working with young people, and are excited to help develop a thriving Market Garden within an innovative educational setting, we encourage you to apply.
Please submit the following to recruitment@ccg.vic.edu.au:
1. Resume/CV
2. Cover Letter addressing the selection criteria for the role
3. Details of two professional Referees
Applications will be reviewed as they are received and early submission is encouraged.
Applications Close: 11:59pm, 13 August 2026