Company description

The mission of Wylde Center is to educate, cultivate greenspaces and build community in the areas we serve.

Wylde Center accomplishes this through educational programs, events and greenspaces that actively engage youth, families and individuals in their environment, health and community, and that develop skills in environmental science, sustainable urban living, organic gardening, health, and nutrition.

Wylde Center was founded in 1997 out of a need to provide opportunities to experience nature in an urban environment. As a result of the community’s involvement and commitment, the organization has evolved into a large and active nonprofit organization operating five greenspaces (Oakhurst Garden, Sugar Creek Garden, Hawk Hollow, Edgewood Community Learning Garden, and the Mulberry Fields Garden) in four different Decatur and Atlanta neighborhoods, open year round for the community, for events and for Wylde Center’s educational programs.

Additionally, Wylde Center provides one of the largest youth environmental and science education programs in metro-Atlanta, including the Decatur Farm to School program, Atlanta Farm to School, Healthy Living by Healthy Growing at the Decatur Housing Authority, and science program and field trips linked to Common Core standards.

Job description

JOB SUMMARY

The Greenspace Director is primarily responsible for all aspects of the greenspace program. Duties include management of the department work plan, supervision of greenspaces and development, support of site coordinators, community partners, and interns, and in general ensuring program success. In addition, Greenspace Director manages greenspace volunteers. Applicant should have advanced expertise in horticulture and/or agriculture as well as experience staff management and community development.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Manage and support site coordinators regarding greenspace matters

• Advanced knowledge of horticultural practices and seasonal planting

• Oversight of Wylde Center facilities

• Take initiative on special projects for Wylde sites

• Work collaboratively with leadership staff

• Basic understanding of grants and ability to manage project and site budgets

• Measure and track greenspace outcomes as directed by the strategic plan; communicate outcomes and program status to the Executive Director.

• Manage plot rentals program for the Wylde Center.

• Coordinate advanced horticultural training using guest professionals/trainers

• Schedule volunteer/service learning groups for all five sites

• Represent the Wylde Center at meetings, conferences, and tabling events when applicable

• Fulfill all duties related to being a member of the Wylde Center staff which includes attending staff meetings, leading workdays, and participating in Wylde hosted community events

• Work a consistent schedule. Will also need to be available during special events for the Wylde Center with occasional weekends

• Contribute content for website, blog, newsletter, and magazine

QUALIFICATIONSMinimum Qualifications

• Advanced knowledge of gardening and agriculture

• Experience working on a farm or large scale garden

• Advanced knowledge of farming and gardening equipment including but not limited to tillers, hoes, shovels, pitchforks and trowels

• Advanced knowledge of vegetable and herb production

• Advanced knowledge of Community Supported Agriculture

• Advanced knowledge of developing, assessing, and managing projects from start to finish

• Strong project management skills and ability to proactively achieve timelines

• Solid leadership skills

• Enjoys working with volunteers of all ages

• Demonstrates honesty, integrity, and professionalism at all times

• Punctual and Self-directed; able to work independently and on a team.

• Strong verbal and written communication skills

• All applicants of the Wylde Center must pass a background check

Preferred Qualifications

· Knowledge of Google Drive

ENVIRONMENTAL JOB REQUIREMENTS

Environment:

• Ability to work in an office setting for the majority of the week

• Able to work outside in extreme temperatures and weather conditions

• Ability to lift up to 75 pounds

Travel: Besides travel associated with visiting the different garden locations, no major travel is anticipated.

OTHER JOB INFORMATION

Schedule: 40 hours per week + occasional weekend work for Wylde Center events and volunteers

Work Location: 435 Oakview Rd., Decatur GA 30030

Contact: Stephanie Van Parys, Executive Director, stephanie@wyldecenter.org

Post Date: April 12, 2017

Application Information: If you are interested in applying for this position, please submit your resume, two letters of recommendation, and cover letter expressing your interest and abilities to Stephanie Van Parys at stephanie@wyldecenter.org. Please put GREENSPACE DIRECTor in title line. Resumes will be accepted for review through May 10, 2017 or until the position is filled.

Start Date: Begins July 5, 2017 at 20 hours/week for training. August 1, 2017, position will be full-time at 40 hours.

Compensation

this position is: salaried, less than $50,000

Application instructions

Deadline

May 10, 2017