What are the responsibilities and job description for the Growing Spaces Program Manager position at Westminster University?
Westminster University
Growing Spaces Program Manager
(Full-Time Benefited)
Position Summary
The Growing Spaces Program manager is responsible for maintaining the current Westminster campus garden activities, collaborating with campus partners growing and wellness initiatives, and promoting environmental awareness in educational events. As an integral part of the Westminster Meldrum Science Center, this position reports to the Director.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
- Oversee the day-to-day operations of the greenhouse, food forest, organic garden, and orchard and ensure produce is properly distributed to on- and off-campus outlets.
- Hire, train and supervise student staff working in the campus growing spaces providing experiential learning opportunities that deepen students’ knowledge of agroecology and sustainability practices.
- Supervise and help grow student-run agroecological sustainability programs, including the bee program and assessing student interest to introduce new programs or make changes to existing ones.
- Work closely with faculty, staff, students to integrate the garden and sustainability initiatives into classroom activities and research projects.
- Work in partnership with other campus programs and local environmental and agroecology organizations to organize and deliver educational, campus-wide community-building events, including the Annual Earth Day event and any new initiatives.
- Teach the Ecology of Food Systems course using the garden and food forest as a living lab and teach one additional Environmental Studies course based on the manager’s area of expertise.
- Provide input on budget priorities for the Growing Spaces program. Monitor expenses, prepare annual reports, and represent the at meetings and campus events.
- Participate in marketing, development, and funding applications to support Growing Spaces program efforts on campus.
- Perform additional tasks and responsibilities as delegated by the Director of the Meldrum Science Center.
Minimum Qualifications:
- Masters degree in Environmental Science or Studies, Natural Resource, Environmental or Landscape Management, Sustainability, Applied Ecology or a related field.
- Experience in a teaching or assistant teaching role, particularly in agriculture, agroecology, environmental studies, or sustainability.
- Practical knowledge in gardening, agroecology, or related fields.
- Strong ability to communicate effectively and work with diverse groups of people, including students from various cultural and socio-economic backgrounds.
- Ability to work occasional evenings and weekends.
Ideal Candidate:
The ideal candidate would be someone who is passionate about sustainability and environmental education, skilled in managing garden spaces (indoor and/or outdoor), and able to engage students and the broader campus community in hands-on, impactful learning. Additionally, the role requires someone who is comfortable with leadership, program management, student development and collaborative work, as well as teaching and contributing to the academic community.
Promote an Inclusive Westminster through demonstration of the commitments include in the Westminster University Diversity Statement. Participate in developmental activities to increase understanding and awareness of issues related diversity, equity and Inclusion both individually and as related to my filed of work, profession or discipline.
Equal Employment Opportunity:
Westminster University is committed to a diversified workforce, equal opportunity, and non discrimination. To this end, Westminster prohibits any form of discrimination or harassment based on race or ethnicity, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, sexual orientation, gender identification, disabilities, genetic information, status as a veteran, or any other category or classification protected by applicable federal, state, or city laws.
