Assistant Garden Coordinator- Internship

South Hills Interfaith Movement•Bethel Park, PA

About The Position

South Hills Interfaith Movement’s (SHIM) mission is to mobilize community resources and implement sustainable programs that compassionately help neighbors meet basic needs, achieve self-sufficiency, and build community. SHIM provides food, clothing, financial aid, education, family support, and a host of other services to 8,500 people in need in Pittsburgh’s southern suburban neighborhoods. In response to the unique challenges faced by the local refugee and immigrant population, SHIM operates programming designed to support children and families in this demographic. Job Summary: The Assistant Garden Coordinator supports the planning, maintenance, and daily operations of SHIM’s community garden program, which grows fresh, nutritious food for distribution through SHIM’s food pantry. This role combines hands-on garden work with community engagement, volunteer coordination, and food access support. The Assistant Garden Manager plays a key role in ensuring healthy harvests, a welcoming garden environment, and consistent contributions to SHIM’s hunger relief efforts.

Requirements

Basic experience in gardening, farming, horticulture, or a related field (professional or volunteer)
Ability to perform physical outdoor work in varying weather conditions
Strong communication skills and comfort working with diverse populations
Ability to work both independently and as part of a team
Commitment to SHIM’s mission and passion for food access and community support
High school diploma or equivalent required
Pennsylvania Access to Criminal History (PATCH) through the Pennsylvania State Police
Pennsylvania Child Abuse History (PACA) through the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services
FBI Criminal History Background Check (Fingerprinting)
NSOR
Mandated Reporter Training

Nice To Haves

Additional coursework or training in horticulture, agriculture, environmental science, or a related field preferred

Responsibilities

Assist with planning, planting, maintaining, and harvesting crops according to seasonal schedules
Support soil health practices, irrigation, composting, and pest management
Maintain garden infrastructure, tools, and storage areas
Ensure safe, clean, and organized garden spaces
Coordinate harvesting, washing, weighing, and packing produce for pantry distribution
Track harvest yields and support basic reporting
Follow food safety and handling guidelines
Assist with recruiting, training, and supervising volunteers
Provide hands-on instruction during volunteer workdays
Support community workshops, garden education, and outreach efforts
Foster a welcoming and inclusive environment for participants of all backgrounds
Assist with scheduling, planning, and daily garden logistics
Help document garden activities, volunteer hours, and harvest data
Support partnerships with SHIM programs and community organizations