Campus Community Garden Intern

Are you looking to gain experience in small scale agriculture while supporting the mission of the Racine-Kenosha County Food Bank to reduce hunger? The University of Wisconsin-Parkside is offering an on-campus paid internship to work at the community garden. The Community Garden Intern will have the opportunity to support a variety of projects, issues, and needs related to food security, agricultural best practices, habitat enhancement, and nutrition.

Interns should have a background and/or interest in environmental studies, sustainable management, nutrition, health, or a related field. Interns should also be passionate about sustainability, public service, and supporting community engagement efforts through their work with the UW-Parkside Community Garden.

Undergraduates, including seniors graduating in May, and graduate students, in any field of study are encouraged to apply. Please highlight any relevant personal, work or volunteer experience or academic training in natural resources management or agriculture in the cover letter and resume in your application. 

Successful candidates should have the ability to work with others, an interest in working in the field of natural resources, as well as enthusiasm for environmental stewardship. Excellent communication, organizational, and time management skills, are required. Interns should expect to carry out their duties in adverse weather and under dynamic conditions. 

Specific Job Duties Include but Are Not Limited To: 

Preparing in ground and raised planting beds through weed removal, turning of existing soil, and addition of soil and/or compost 

Placement and maintenance of exclusion fencing 

Garden path maintenance (weeding and spreading wood chips) 

Removal of weeds (non-native species) and pests using natural/sustainable methods 

Planting various plants and seeds in ground, raised beds, pots or pollinator plots 

Watering plants and seeds 

Opening and/or closing the hoop house west of Tallent Hall on a daily basis 

Harvesting produce from the community garden 

Packaging and transporting harvested produce 

Manual turning of compost 

Maintaining tools and garden shed 

Waste removal/disposal 

Other: 

Interns are responsible for travel, housing, and other living expenses. Work will occur on the main campus. Sturdy work boots, weather appropriate field clothing, and hydration (e.g., a water bottle) are required. Sturdy work boots and a rain jacket will be purchased for the hired student. Gardening gloves and hand tools will be provided.

Required Qualifications:

- Must be enrolled at the University of Wisconsin Parkside

- Be at least 18 years of age 
- Completion of one year of college or equivalent combination of education and experience 
- Ability to work in all types of weather conditions 
- Ability to lift/carry up to 40 pounds 
- Ability to use a variety of hand tools 
- Ability to stand, squat, bend, or kneel for extended periods of time 
- Ability and willingness to work in a team environment

Contact Information:

Adam Christensen, christa0@uwp.edu, 262-595-2450