Garden Works Coordinator

Position Summary Garden Works by p:ear seeks a compassionate, skilled, and creative Garden Works Coordinator to lead an educational + food justice garden program designed for youth experiencing homelessness or housing instability. This position focuses on building community, life skills, food security, environmental awareness through hands-on and trauma-informed garden education in preparation for our partner-based externships. The garden works Coordinator will help manage a garden space that serves as a healing, self-learning, and educational resource. Programming will support youth ages 15–25 years old.

Cover letters and resumes can be sent to: [email protected] with “Garden Works Coordinator” in the subject line. This position will remain open until filled. Email only, no phone calls please – phone calls will not be returned.

Job Title: Garden Works Coordinator

Location: p:ear: 338 NW 6th Ave. & garden works: 14127 SW Stark St.

Employment Type: 1 FTE                                                                                       

Reports To: p:ear works Director

Salary: $65k + Benefits

Start Date: August 15, 2026

Key Responsibilities – Program Design & Facilitation – Design and lead inclusive, trauma-informed garden-based education sessions that are adaptable to diverse learning styles and life circumstances. – Integrate life skills, mental wellness, nutrition, sustainability, and job readiness themes into garden activities. – Facilitate regular garden workshops, drop-in sessions, and seasonal programs for youth, focusing on empowerment and resilience. -Develop curriculum and resources in collaboration with youth advisors and program staff. Garden Creation & Maintenance – Oversee all aspects of the garden’s development and care, including planting, composting, irrigation, and harvesting. – Develop and implement inclusive, culturally responsive educational curriculum that engages youth and community members in food forest stewardship, sustainable agriculture, native plant ecology, and environmental justice. – Demonstrated knowledge or experience in designing accessible, hands-on learning experiences that honor diverse cultural perspectives, learning styles, and community knowledge while fostering belonging and environmental stewardship. – Incorporate youth leadership and input into the design and ongoing development of the garden space. – Maintain a clean, safe, and welcoming environment for participants and staff.

Youth Empowerment & Support – Create a supportive and inclusive atmosphere where youth feel seen, heard, and valued. – Work closely with case managers, youth advocates, and social workers to align programming with individual goals and needs. – Offer skill-building opportunities such as leadership roles, peer mentor programs, or garden internships for interested youth. – Model and foster positive communication, accountability, and collaborative decision-making.

Community Partnerships & Collaboration – Partner with flower works Coordinator, coordinating overlap in curriculum and hands-on education – Partner with local farms, food justice organizations, chefs, and educators to enrich program offerings/internships/externships. – Coordinate volunteer efforts, family days, and community garden events to build broader connections. – Program Management & Evaluation – Track participation and outcomes for grants, reports, and program improvement. – Manage budgets, order supplies, and maintain inventory of garden tools and educational materials. – Grant reporting will play a large roll in this position – Create newsletters, social media content, or program stories that amplify youth voices and highlight successes.

Qualifications – Experience working with vulnerable or system-impacted youth, especially those facing housing insecurity or trauma. – Grant reporting and maintaining a budget. – Strong knowledge of sustainable gardening, horticulture, or urban agriculture. – Skilled in leading group activities and creating a safe, engaging learning environment. – Ability to build trusting relationships and work from a trauma-informed, youth-centered perspective. – Willingness and ability to work outdoors in varied conditions and lift up to 40 pounds. – Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience in education, social work, youth development, horticulture, or a related field. – Knowledge of food justice, environmental education, and community organizing. Experience with grant writing or program development. Valid driver’s license. First Aid/CPR certified. Bilingual or multilingual strongly encouraged (e.g., Spanish, etc.).

Work Schedule & Conditions:

·      Monday-Friday 8am-4pm, flexible hours with some evenings/weekends required.

·      Program activities take place both indoors and outdoors, in all seasons.

·      Requires local travel between program sites or community partners.