Garden Specialist 1- Community Food at Community Action Center

Description

Under the direction of the Community Food Coordinator, the Garden Specialist I- assists with the implementation of fresh produce for the food bank and education for the community. The Garden Specialist I, prepares and manages garden plots, greenhouse, and hydroponic systems. This position also manages garden volunteers and provides garden education to the community.

Crop Production and Distribution

• Start production and crop maintenance

• Development and maintenance of garden maps and planting calendars
• Organizing produce distribution to community food pantries and Mobile Farm Stand
• Weed and troubleshoot pest and/or disease issues as necessary
• Infrastructure maintenance
• Ensure safe handling of food items
• Work with other staff and agencies to manage volunteer groups
• Keep copious and accurate documentation of gardens and programming

Program Development & Coordination

• Assist in the development and implementation of garden education for children and adults
• Assist with the development, documentation, and implementation of Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) and process for the gardens and education programs that define best practices
• Assist with implementing these program policies and practices
• Work with program staff to inform the development, implementation and evaluation of programs and special projects related to the garden
• Maintain safe, secure, and healthy work environment by following safety practices and policies
• As able, assist with grant proposals and fund-raising activities and public relations efforts to enhance public awareness of hunger.

Community Outreach

• Collaborate with community organizations, staff, and schools to integrate client education
• (specifically garden education) within distribution programs
• Work with a broad base of partners, coalitions, and low-income people on solutions to hunger and its root causes to support CAC’s mission. Represent CAC at community meetings as needed.
• Develop strategies to balance community needs with resources
• Establish & maintain relationships with local farmers & master gardeners for support with educational programs

General Agency Responsibilities

• Work with other CAC staff members on general agency & family development related issues
• Follow procedures as developed
• Other related tasks assigned by the Community Food Coordinator

Requirements

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS – Bachelor in Horticulture (or similar) Preferred

• Knowledge of seasonal gardening tasks, such as planting, fertilizing, transplanting, laying sod, aerating, pruning, and trimming.
• Hydroponic experience a plus or willingness to learn
• Ability to communicate effectively with people from various social and economic backgrounds
• Schedule and monitor multiple processes, projects, and programs
• Work well under pressure
• Use computer spreadsheets and word processing programs
• Understand and execute oral and written instructions
• Read, comprehend, and follow program procedures, regulations, and specifications
• Establishment & achievement of measurable goals and objectives
• Work both independently and as an effective team member

Other Requirements

• Ability to drive, a valid driver’s license, and clean driving record
• Ability to work throughout Whitman and Latah County- CAC vehicle
• Ability to grasp, lift and/or carry 50+; 100+ with help
• Able to work outside in all weather
• Drive trucks, box truck, all CAC vehicles
• Self-motivated
• Multitasking

PERFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Knowledge of the challenges and needs of people with limited income
• Knowledge of nutrition

Benefits

FT 40 hrs a week

Sick accrual

Generous PTO after 6 months

M/D/V first full month of employment

13 paid holidays

Paid time off Dec 24-Jan 1

403B (401K) after 1 yr