Garden Educator in Training – Summer Only

Work period: June 13 to August 12, 2022 

Garden Educators in Training will work at the Troy Kids Garden and Goodman Youth Farm. Both programs serve youth ages 3 through 18 with outdoor, garden-based learning. At each site, trainees lead small groups of youth in gardening, cooking, animal care, outdoor art, and other hands-on activities. Garden Educator Trainees can expect to gain experience developing and implementing garden-based curricula and activities, while developing a working knowledge of vegetable gardening and small-scale farm management.

Specific Duties and Responsibilities

  • Assisting in field work to maintain urban agricultural sites, including planting, weeding, mulching, trellising, bed-prep, composting, cover cropping, harvesting, and post-harvest handling.
  • Arriving on time and being ready to work for every shift.
  • Working in inclement weather or adjusting their work hours to accommodate the weather.
  • Participating in weekly professional development experiences during the summer session as well as other training opportunities throughout the season.
  • Completing at least one self-directed project throughout the course of the season. 
  • Leading groups of youth in garden-based activities, both independently and as part of a teaching team.
  • Involvement in all preparatory work for our educational programs, including activity set-up and clean-up, developing educational materials, and program debriefs.
  • Occasionally directing groups of adult volunteers.
  • Participating in preparing garden areas for student activities, including additional weeding, mulching, and bed preparation, among other duties.
  • Participating in field walks and CSA farm maintenance tasks; attend beginning farmer trainings at Troy Farm (one day per week).

Required Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

  • Ability to interact in a professional, courteous, and confidential manner with others in a variety of circumstances.
  • Experience working with diverse groups of people in community settings with cultural competence.
  • Ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing, including the ability to listen and solve problems.
  • Flexibility and willingness to grow in response to needs or changes in the field.
  • Ability to work on projects independently or as part of a group.
  • Demonstrated ability to follow through on commitments, responsibilities, and tasks.
  • Proficient use or willingness to learn office software, email, and other technology.
  • Ability to lift fifty pounds.
  • Ability to commit to and promote Rooted’s mission, goals, and priorities.
  • Prior experience working with children is desirable but not required.

Additional Information/Requirements

  • Must have access to reliable transportation.
  • Willingness and ability to work some weekend and evening hours.
  • Ability to pass a standard background check.
  • Trainees must follow COVID-19 safety practices

Position Classification & Time Commitment

  • This position is FLSA non-exempt.
  • Part time (minimum 20 hours per week) and full time (maximum 40 hours per week) positions available from June 13 – August 12.
  • The pay rate is $10/hr. Trainees must record their hours daily.

Academic Credit

Trainees may be eligible for academic credit. Please negotiate the terms of any academic credit directly with a faculty sponsor, and discuss with your Rooted program manager prior to starting the training program.

How to Apply

Applicants may apply online or with a paper application. For priority consideration, apply by April 15, 2022.

Apply online here. For a paper application or if you have questions, please email [email protected] or call (608)-240-0409.

Rooted                                                                           
2702 International Lane, Suite 200                            
Madison, WI 53704

Donate to Rooted for The Big Share! We need your help to keep fresh vegetables growing and our Badger Rock education program thriving.

Please give today to help grow tomorrow’s environmental leaders. 

Grow Community-Led Food Systems for All! We need your help to keep fresh vegetables growing and our hands-on education thriving.

Please give today to ensure our community grows stronger, healthier, and more resilient in 2026.

Giving Tuesday is December 2nd! It’s an important day of giving to ensure Rooted can continue this work into 2026.

Please donate to help communities grow food for neighbors. 

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Pizza Orders Close at 12pm on Tuesdays.

The Big Share fundraiser is an important part of funding Rooted’s programs. We depend on support from community members like YOU. 

Your gift helps grow the gardens.