Purpose: To assist garden manager in all aspects of the maintenance of the gardens at the Gary Comer Youth Center on Chicago’s southeast side. The ideal candidate will have hands-on gardening experience, along with experience with youth ages 8 – 18 to develop an urban food system.
Qualifications:
- 2 – 5 years maintaining vegetable gardens
- Previous experience with year-round gardening using row covers and an unheated greenhouse
- Education and/or experience working with youth, ages 5 – 18, in a urban agriculture setting
- Enthusiasm and commitment to the development of a youth-led urban agriculture food system.
- Prepared to work indoors and outdoors under all weather conditions; lift 50 pounds.
Duties and Responsibilities:
- Maintain network of GCYC gardens. Tasks to include: planning, seed ordering, seed starting, planting, weeding, soil management, integrated pest management, harvesting, packaging, distribution and record keeping.
- Assist garden manager with various distribution programs to internal and external clients.
- Lead crew of young people ages 13 – 18 in hands-on learning of all aspects of urban agriculture, food production and perennial plant production.
Hours and compensation:
Up to 40 hours per week to include some Saturdays and Sundays. Job may be extended depending on pending funding and performance. Compensation based on experience.
To apply:
Please send your resume, cover letter and three references to Marji Hess, Gary Comer Youth Center, Garden Manager, via email at mhess@gcychome.org. No phone calls, please.
