Program Coordinator, Waabigwanii Gitigaanin Garden/Greenhouse Program

GREAT LAKES INTER-TRIBAL COUNCIL, INC.•Lac du Flambeau, WI

11d•$52,000 - $58,240•Onsite

About The Position

As the program coordinator for Waabigwanii Gitigaanin Garden/Greenhouse, the employee will ensure that the day-to-day garden/greenhouse operations are maintained. Working closely with the supervisor to develop and implement programming to improve health outcomes for Tribal members through education, food sovereignty/community gardening, program curriculum development or adaptation and implementation for all age levels of the community will be the prime duties of this position. Aiding community members in growing healthy foods, including harvesting and food preparation are also key activities. The position will include coordinating community classes, researching foods to grow, working with all ages of community members, engaging knowledge keepers and other organizations to deliver teachings, as well as duties mentioned below. Daily attendance is an essential job function, the hours of this position will not follow the standard 8:00am-4:30pm schedule, later morning to early evening (10:00 or 11:00 am to 6:30 or 7:30 pm) and up to 4 hours on the weekend, dependent upon community needs.

Requirements

An equivalent combination of experience and education that would provide the required knowledge and abilities will be considered.
Two or more years of experience in gardening or horticulture with a keen interest and willingness to expand knowledge.
Ability to use and maintain garden/greenhouse tools and equipment.
Comfort in working outdoors with direct sun exposure.
Ability to communicate responsively and effectively with diverse age and racial groups.
Daily attendance is required to guarantee the success of growing plants.
Individual must possess excellent verbal and written communication skills; high level of professionalism; advanced reasoning and problem-solving skills; ability to manage time effectively; self-motivation skills; ability to work effectively under pressure; use basic mathematical and budgeting skills.
Must possess a valid driver’s license and/or reliable transportation with adequate insurance and ability to travel.

Responsibilities

Seed propagation/planting, watering, transplanting and general maintenance of plants and foods in the greenhouse and garden areas. This will include maintaining planting and harvesting schedules, recording and maintaining inventory of seeds, planting media, garden tools and all items needed for success.
Awareness and respect of traditional practices when cultivating certain seeds/plants is required.
Garden and raised garden preparation, maintenance, and technical assistance to community members if needed. Ground preparation and non-chemical weed mitigation practices as necessary. This will include using motorized garden machines and non-motorized tools such as: tillers, trimmers, lawnmower, pruning tools, shovels, hoes, rakes, garden carts, hose carts and other tools that may be necessary.
Work closely with the Program Director to develop and implement greenhouse/gardening program curricula for various age groups. Continued community engagement and educational activities will be a high priority; seeking tribal knowledge keepers to provide teachings regarding plant use, foraging for traditional plants, animal harvesting & preservation and seed saving is also a high priority activity.
Provide information for garden/greenhouse participants regarding nutrition, preventative healthcare and how they relate to traditional foods. Researching and collecting information from valid sources is required.
Work closely with programs within GLITC and relevant Lac du Flambeau Tribal departments to collaborate in food sovereignty activities.
Participate in program meetings, trainings and presentations assigned by supervisor.
Working in varying weather conditions may be necessary at times. Proper clothing and self-care must be maintained.
Engage in networking activities with Tribal Food Sovereignty programs and organizations.
Assure that all services are delivered in a culturally appropriate manner.
Participate in various committees both within and external to the organization as deemed necessary and appropriate to the position.
Attend technical conferences, seminars, workshops and other educational events to remain current on technological and informational advances.
Perform other duties as necessary to fulfill the responsibilities of this position.