Position Title: Student Engagement Coordinator (SEC)
Job Type: Part-time* at 5-19 hours per week – Full Time Equivalency: 0.125-0.475 *Note: We are also considering candidates interested in a full-time position. Please indicate your preference in your application materials.
Compensation: $20 per hour, commensurate with experience.
Reports to: Co-Directors
Start Date: Immediately
Position Summary:
The Hawaiʻi Institute of Pacific Agriculture is seeking a dedicated and enthusiastic Farm-to-School (F2S) Garden Coordinatorto lead and support student involvement in the Garden-to-Cafeteria (G2C) program and other farm-to-school initiatives at Kohala High School. This role involves managing the Kohala High School garden, coordinating hands-on gardening activities, cultivate a student-led supply chain for local food production, and working closely with high school students, teachers, and community partners to integrate agricultural education into the curriculum. The ideal candidate will have strong gardening skills, experience in education and community engagement, with a strong commitment to sustainable food systems and student empowerment. Duties include, but are not limited to:
Key Responsibilities:
- Garden Management:
- Lead the maintenance and development of the Kohala High School (KHS) garden as the lead grower, supporting the production of hydroponic lettuce, orchard fruit crops, and the fenced garden plot.
- Implement sustainable gardening practices, including planting, watering, fertilizing, and pest management.
- Coordinate the cultivation of produce to supply the school's Garden-to-Cafeteria (G2C) program.
- Coordinate with the Kohala Food Hub (KFH) and KHS Food Service Manager to integrate student-grown produce into the cafeteria menu on a seasonal basis.
- Student Engagement:
- Engage students in hands-on gardening activities, teaching them about plant care, soil health, sustainable agriculture, local food procurement, garden management, and culinary activities.
- Conduct periodic school-wide taste-testing events and culinary workshops featuring student-grown produce.
- Deliver educational classes and workshops focused on gardening techniques and the importance of local food systems.
- Facilitate internships and mentorship programs for a limited number of students to gain hands-on experience in agriculture and food production.
- Mentor students in managing garden projects, fostering leadership and responsibility.
- Data Collection and Reporting:
- Record information on planting schedules, harvest yields, and student participation.
- Assist in the collection of data related to the performance of G2C and agricultural education initiatives.
- Provide regular updates and reports to the Project Director.
Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree in Education, Agriculture, or related field preferred but not required. Equivalent work experience will also be considered.
- Solid understanding of sustainable and organic agricultural practices.
- Excellent communication, collaboration, and problem-solving skills, with the ability to interact effectively with high school students and diverse community members.
- Proficiency in using tools, equipment, and machinery relevant to garden and farm operations.
- Proficiency in data collection and record keeping.
- Must have a valid drivers license.
Work Environment:
- Requires regular outdoor work in varying weather conditions.
- Must be able to lift 50 pounds.
- Must be able to work 8-hours in the field performing physical activities such as bending, lifting, and manual labor.
- Must be comfortable with repeating motions that may include the wrists, hands, and/or fingers as it relates to farm operations.
- Must be able to safely operate a motor vehicle.
Terms & Compensation:
This is a part-time* position, with a projected duration of two years. Renewal contingent upon availability of funds, organization needs, and satisfactory performance. This hourly position starts at $20, commensurate with experience.
Note: We are also considering candidates interested in a full-time position. Please indicate your preference in your application materials.
Application Process:
Interested applicants should submit a cover letter, resume, and the contact information for three references via email to erika@hipagriculture.org and dash@hipagriculture.org.
