Garden/Program Manager-Worcester State University

The Garden

• Prepare outdoor garden classroom space for learning, including the maintenance of materials, supplies and tools related to the outdoor garden classroom
• Coordinate the planting, harvesting and produce distribution for the entire garden
• Plan and maintain a quarter acre garden
• Plan, organize and direct short-term summer camps and groups
• Inventory supplies, and acquire needed supplies
• Host WSU classes and their professors in the garden
• Foster meaningful volunteer and leadership opportunities
• Collaborate in the development of food justice, community development, and sustainability learning opportunities
• Liaise with relevant contacts on campus and in the community to coordinate garden activities

Practicum:

• Provide an orientation for WSU students on how to work in the garden
• Instruct WSU students and relevant community partners on garden work, planting, materials and lessons
• Prepare weekly "garden circle" classes that relate to classroom curricula, including lessons for visiting students regarding planting, nature, sustainable living, food justice, leadership, and caring for a garden
• Prepare outdoor garden classroom space for learning, including the maintenance of materials, supplies and tools related to the outdoor garden classroom
• Act as a liaison with relevant community partners and the Director of the IUI and Staff Assistant.

Administrative:

• Serve as liaison between the IUI and programs in our garden
• Develop, lead and present garden information sessions
• Manage communication of groups and parties interested attending garden programing
• Schedule all groups and programs in the garden
• Coordinate logistics and supplies for various group activities in the garden
• Work with the Staff Assistant to manage and oversee the garden budget
• Collaborate with IUI staff to strategize and coordinate synergies between garden and other IUI programs/activities
• Support Staff Assistant and IUI Director in coordination and implementation of other IUI programs as needed
• Communication:
• Work collaboratively with IUI Director and Staff Assistant to communicate the needs of the outdoor garden classroom
• Provide an educational, caring and safe environment for WSU and community partners in the garden
• Build long term community connections while coordinating groups in the garden
• Communicate effectively with all groups participating in our garden

Requirements:
Required Qualifications:

1. Experience in urban gardening, farming or related experience
2. Experience mentoring and facilitating learners of all ages and diverse backgrounds
3. Strong interpersonal skills, including: communications skills, time management, prioritizing and delegating
4. Proficient computer skills including Microsoft office suite.
5. Motivated, with demonstrated ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Additional Information:

SCHEDULE:
12 hours per week, 16 weeks per semester and 14 weeks in the summer
PAY RATE:
$15.00 per hour