Garden Educator in Training – Summer Only

Work period: June 13 to August 12, 2022 

Garden Educators in Training will work at the Troy Kids Garden and Goodman Youth Farm. Both programs serve youth ages 3 through 18 with outdoor, garden-based learning. At each site, trainees lead small groups of youth in gardening, cooking, animal care, outdoor art, and other hands-on activities. Garden Educator Trainees can expect to gain experience developing and implementing garden-based curricula and activities, while developing a working knowledge of vegetable gardening and small-scale farm management.

Specific Duties and Responsibilities

  • Assisting in field work to maintain urban agricultural sites, including planting, weeding, mulching, trellising, bed-prep, composting, cover cropping, harvesting, and post-harvest handling.
  • Arriving on time and being ready to work for every shift.
  • Working in inclement weather or adjusting their work hours to accommodate the weather.
  • Participating in weekly professional development experiences during the summer session as well as other training opportunities throughout the season.
  • Completing at least one self-directed project throughout the course of the season. 
  • Leading groups of youth in garden-based activities, both independently and as part of a teaching team.
  • Involvement in all preparatory work for our educational programs, including activity set-up and clean-up, developing educational materials, and program debriefs.
  • Occasionally directing groups of adult volunteers.
  • Participating in preparing garden areas for student activities, including additional weeding, mulching, and bed preparation, among other duties.
  • Participating in field walks and CSA farm maintenance tasks; attend beginning farmer trainings at Troy Farm (one day per week).

Required Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

  • Ability to interact in a professional, courteous, and confidential manner with others in a variety of circumstances.
  • Experience working with diverse groups of people in community settings with cultural competence.
  • Ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing, including the ability to listen and solve problems.
  • Flexibility and willingness to grow in response to needs or changes in the field.
  • Ability to work on projects independently or as part of a group.
  • Demonstrated ability to follow through on commitments, responsibilities, and tasks.
  • Proficient use or willingness to learn office software, email, and other technology.
  • Ability to lift fifty pounds.
  • Ability to commit to and promote Rooted’s mission, goals, and priorities.
  • Prior experience working with children is desirable but not required.

Additional Information/Requirements

  • Must have access to reliable transportation.
  • Willingness and ability to work some weekend and evening hours.
  • Ability to pass a standard background check.
  • Trainees must follow COVID-19 safety practices

Position Classification & Time Commitment

  • This position is FLSA non-exempt.
  • Part time (minimum 20 hours per week) and full time (maximum 40 hours per week) positions available from June 13 – August 12.
  • The pay rate is $10/hr. Trainees must record their hours daily.

Academic Credit

Trainees may be eligible for academic credit. Please negotiate the terms of any academic credit directly with a faculty sponsor, and discuss with your Rooted program manager prior to starting the training program.

How to Apply

Applicants may apply online or with a paper application. For priority consideration, apply by April 15, 2022.

Apply online here. For a paper application or if you have questions, please email [email protected] or call (608)-240-0409.

Rooted                                                                           
2702 International Lane, Suite 200                            
Madison, WI 53704

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