Community Garden Assistant (Internship Eligible)
Position Summary/Job Duties:
Are you looking to gain experience in small scale agriculture while supporting the mission of the Racine-Kenosha County Food Bank? The University of Wisconsin-Parkside is offering an on-campus paid position (Internship Eligible) to work at the community garden. The hired applicant will have the opportunity to support a variety of projects, issues, and needs related to food security, agricultural best practices, habitat enhancement, and nutrition. Applicants should have a background and/or interest in environmental studies, sustainable management, nutrition, health, or related field. Applicants should also be passionate about sustainability, public service and supporting community engagement efforts through their work with the UW-Parkside Garden. Undergraduates, including seniors graduating in May, 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 your cover letter.
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, as well as a positive attitude are required. The assistant 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, addition of soil and/or compost
- Placement and maintenance of exclusion fencing
- Garden path maintenance (spreading wood chips)
- Removal of weeds (non-native species) and pests using natural/sustainable methods
- Planting various plants and seeds in ground, in raised beds, or in 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
- Manual turning of compost
- Maintaining tools and garden shed
- Waste removal/disposal
Other:
Employees 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. Garden gloves and hand tools will be provided.
Requirements:
- 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
Anticipated Hours Per Week:
10-12, approximately 3-4 hours per day 3 times per week
Schedule:
To be mutually agreed on based upon project needs and student availability
Position has potential to extend into the fall semester.
High Impact Practice Statement: By incorporating classroom learning into hands-on work experience as well as providing supervision and coaching, students gain necessary tools to grow and contribute as professionals.
If interested, please upload your resume and cover letter with previous experience and why you are interested in this position to Handshake. This position can be used to receive course credit if desired. Please contact Emily Reed with questions - reede@uwp.edu