Portland Community College | Portland, Oregon

We’re hiring! Newberg Center Learning Garden Coordinator

Posted by Melissa Aaberg

Position Summary

PCC Newberg Center is looking for an enthusiastic individual to join our team in a temporary part-time capacity, and play a crucial role in the development of the Center’s new learning garden. Under direction of the Newberg Center Director, the Coordinator will play a leadership role in implementing the first phase of the Learning Garden master plan and completing construction of the garden’s cob shed. The Learning Garden Coordinator will also be responsible for recruiting and guiding volunteers during the development stages, and build connections with faculty and staff to integrate the garden into classroom activities, programs, and events at Newberg.

Essential Functions (to include, but not limited to):

• Lead implementation of the Learning Garden master plan in conjunction with college and community stakeholders.
• Coordinate completion of the learning garden cob shed
• Complete day-to- day Learning Garden activities such as digging, planting, weeding, harvesting, etc.
• Arrange work with outside vendors as necessary.
• Coordinate deliveries, donations and purchases for the Learning Garden.
• Recruit and oversee volunteers and coordinate work parties.
• Design and create outreach materials to market and publicize Learning Garden events and initiatives.
• Maintain garden website and online presence.
• Work with faculty and staff to integrate the garden into classroom activities, programs, and events at Newberg.
• Maintain necessary paperwork and adhere to all college policies & procedures.
• Other duties as assigned.

Position Requirements:

• Hands-on experience growing food in medium-scale garden environment.
• Experience in project or program coordination.
• Strong organizational skills, both in the office and outside.
• Experience with social media, e.g. website and Facebook and basic computer skills.
• Ability to serve independently and collaboratively with diverse groups of people.
• Ability and willingness to communicate in a positive, professional manner with a wide range of stakeholders, including students, staff, and college organizations.
• Ability to serve in all types of weather, ability to dig, kneel, and lift 50 pounds.
• A cooperative manner and the ability to serve as part of a diverse team.
• 18 years of age or older, at beginning of service term.
• U.S. citizen, national or lawful permanent resident.
• Possession of a high school diploma or equivalent.
• Must successfully pass a criminal background check.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Cob or natural building experience preferred (training available)
• An Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree is preferred
• Background in sustainability, food systems, environmental studies or related field
• Experience developing a garden from inception
• Experience working at a garden in a school environment

Position Details:

• The pay rate is $15/hr.
• This is a part-time, casual position with a maximum workload of 599 hours through June, 2017.
• Hours will vary and some evening/weekend work may be required.

To Apply:

Please send your resume and a cover letter briefly explaining your interest and qualifications for the position to Lynn Montoya Quinn at lmontoya@pcc.edu. Application materials will be accepted until the position is filled.