Beardsley Farm and Community Gardens Coordinator

Summary: Under the general supervision of the Farm and Community Gardens Manager, the Farm and Community Gardens Coordinator supports the daily operations of CAC Beardsley Community Farm and its off-site community gardens. This role is responsible for maintaining growing spaces, managing volunteers and interns, coordinating seedling propagation and distribution, and supporting community gardeners through education and resource sharing.Under the general supervision of the Farm and Community Gardens Manager, the Farm and Community Gardens Coordinator supports the daily operations of CAC Beardsley Community Farm and its off-site community gardens. This role is responsible for maintaining growing spaces, managing volunteers and interns, coordinating seedling propagation and distribution, and supporting community gardeners through education and resource sharing.

Email your resume and CAC job application to cachr@knoxcac.org or apply using our online form. Note: Emailed resumes sent as attachments must be provided in Microsoft Word or PDF format.

See complete job description below.

An Equal Opportunity Employer

KNOXVILLE-KNOX COUNTY COMMUNITY ACTION COMMITTEE
URBAN AGRICULTURE JOB DESCRIPTION

Beardsley Farm and Community Gardens Coordinator

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Maintain the grounds at Beardsley Community Farm, including planting, weeding, harvesting, irrigation, crop rotation, soil health management, and pest and disease control.

• Support the upkeep of off-site community gardens through mowing, trimming, soil replenishment, communication with gardeners, and regular site visits.

• Lead and support volunteers and interns at both the farm and community garden sites.

• Assist community gardeners with supply requests, distribute resources, and provide guidance and encouragement to promote successful gardening experiences.

• Coordinate the Seed and Plant Distribution Program, including greenhouse maintenance, seasonal seedling propagation, and sanitation. Schedule and facilitate community garden sign-up meetings, assist with seed distribution logistics, and supervise the distribution process.

• Operate and maintain farm equipment safely at both on-site and off-site locations.

• Keep tools, equipment, and materials organized and ensure the farm remains a clean, welcoming, and functional space.

• Support educational programming by leading tours, giving presentations, and assisting with workshops and outreach events. Communicate effectively with the public through email, phone, and in-person interactions.

• Assist with produce distributions as needed.

• Maintain accurate records and submit timely reports. Conduct surveys and needs assessments to inform programming.

• Help create a safe, inclusive environment for all farm visitors, volunteers, and program participants.

• Assist with annual farm events and fundraisers.

• Perform other duties as assigned by the Farm and Community Gardens Manager.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.
• Ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions.
• Ability to work occasional evening and weekend hours.
• Knowledge of soil preparation, planting, composting, and basic garden maintenance.
• Ability to build and repair simple wooden structures and operate garden equipment.
• Experience with seed propagation and basic greenhouse management.
• Ability to drive a tractor and use small agricultural tools and machinery.
• Strong leadership and volunteer management skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively with people from diverse backgrounds.
• Excellent organizational and communication skills.
• Commitment to professionalism, inclusivity, and community service.
• At least one year of experience in sustainable agriculture.
• Proficiency in Google Suite and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Ability to lift 50 pounds independently and 100 pounds with assistance.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment with frequent events and activities.

Education and Experience: Bachelor’s degree in agriculture, environmental studies, or a related field, or at least two years of relevant work experience. Equivalent combinations of education, training, and experience in agriculture, education, and gardening will be considered. Experience working with diverse populations is required. A valid Tennessee driver’s license and a clean driving record are required.

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:

CAC offers an excellent benefits package including:

• Employer-paid health insurance
• Life insurance
• Pension plan contributions
• Co-pay dental insurance
• Paid vacation, sick leave, and generous holidays

SKILL LEVEL: 8, Starting at $19.25 hour/ $37,557.00 annually