Austin Grown Specialist

Description

BUILD, Inc. (Broader Urban Involvement and Leadership Development) is presently seeking a committed, self-motivated, and innovative individual to join our team. BUILD is a nationally respected gang intervention, violence prevention, and youth development organization based on Chicago’s West Side. Since 1969, BUILD has worked to save lives and mentor young people who live in the city’s most challenged neighborhoods. When you work at BUILD you make an important difference to the thousands of youths and families we serve.      

Our Core Values: Empathy, Passion, Persistence and Innovation. 

We are seeking a dedicated and passionate Garden Specialist to support our urban gardening efforts on the west side of Chicago. This part-time role involves working directly with youth and community members to teach gardening skills, promote sustainability practices, and advocate for food justice. The ideal candidate will demonstrate a strong commitment to community engagement and have some previous experience with gardening or urban farming. The specialist will work closely with the Manager of Austin Grown who can provide guidance and training related to gardening practices. Join us in growing a greener, more sustainable community through hands-on gardening and education! The Austin Grown Specialist will report directly to the Manager of Austin Grown.

Responsibilities are but are not limited to: 

• Gardening Maintenance: Support the ongoing maintenance of garden plots, including planting, weeding, watering, and harvesting. Ensure that garden spaces are clean, safe, and productive. 
• Gardening Education: Assist Austin Grown staff with the facilitation of hands-on gardening activities and workshops for youth and community members. Teach fundamental gardening techniques, sustainable practices, and principles of food justice. 
• Community Engagement: Build positive relationships with community members and local organizations. Encourage participation and foster a sense of ownership and pride in community gardening projects. 
• Resource Management: Assist in managing gardening supplies, tools, and materials. Maintain accurate records of garden activities, inventory, and participant progress. 
• Outreach and Advocacy: Promote the benefits of gardening and sustainability through community outreach and educational materials. Advocate for food justice and environmental awareness within the community. 
• Collaboration: Work closely with other staff members, volunteers, and local partners to coordinate gardening activities and integrate gardening programs into broader community initiatives. 

Requirements

• Minimum high school diploma or GED required with at least 2 years of gardening experience and garden certificate a plus.
• Previous experience in urban agriculture, community gardening, or a related field. Experience working with youth and community groups is highly desirable. 
• Some knowledge of gardening techniques, sustainable practices, and food justice principles. Strong communication skills and willingness to engage diverse audiences. 
• A genuine enthusiasm for gardening, sustainability, and community education. Demonstrates energy, enthusiasm, and interest in supporting the organization’s mission. 
• Ability to perform physical tasks related to gardening, including lifting, bending, and working outdoors in various weather conditions. 
• Successful completion of a background check and other required clearances. 

Physical Requirements: 

• Must be able to Carry/Move up to 50 pounds
• Must be able to climb up to three flights of stairs 
• Frequent required prolonged sitting, standing, running and climbing stairs. 
• Must be able to work  indoors and outdoors in any weather 
• Reasonable accommodation to be determined by the organization on a case-by-case basis.  

Benefits:  

• 401(k) plan + 2% match
• Paid Vacation 
• Wellness Days 

BUILD, Inc., does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, citizenship, ethnic or national origin, age, disability, medical status, military status, veteran status, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic information, ancestry, or any legally protected status. This policy applies to all employment practices within our organization, including hiring, recruiting, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, leave of absence, compensation, benefits and training.
 

All offers of employment are contingent upon a background check that includes a review of conviction history. A conviction does not automatically prohibit employment. Rather, BUILD Inc., considers conviction information on a case-by-case basis and assesses the nature of the offense, the circumstances surrounding it, the proximity in time of the conviction, and its relevance to the position.

American with Disabilities Act (ADA) Statement: External and internal applicants, as well as position incumbents who become disabled, must be able to perform the essential job specific functions (listed within each job responsibility) either unaided or with the assistance of a reasonable accommodation to be determined by the organization on a case-by-case basis. 

This organization reserves the right to revise or change job duties and responsibilities as the need arises. This job description does not constitute a written or implied contract of employment. 

Requirements