Job Description: Food Forest .5 FTE Staff

Location: Yakutat, Alaska

Employment Type: Part-time, Temporary

Wage: $25/ hr

Application Deadline: May 15th 

Position Summary:The Yakutat Tlingit Tribe is seeking two individuals to join the Food Forest team as part-time staff members. These positions will play a crucial role in the establishment and maintenance of the food forest, contributing to its overall success and sustainability. The Food Forest .5 FTE Staff will work under the supervision of the Human Services Department Manager and collaborate closely with other team members to achieve project goals.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:1. Participate in Food Forest Operations: Assist in all aspects of food forest operations, including but not limited to planting, watering, weeding, pruning, and harvesting.
2. Equipment Operation and Maintenance: Receive training on equipment operation and assist in the maintenance of tools and machinery used in food forest management.
3. Training and Skill Development: Engage in hands-on learning experiences to build knowledge and proficiency in food forestry practices, soil health management, and plant propagation techniques.
4. Collaboration and Teamwork: Work collaboratively with other team members to accomplish daily tasks and contribute to the overall success of the food forest project.
5. Community Engagement: Participate in community outreach activities to raise awareness about the food forest project and promote its benefits to the local community.
6. Documentation and Reporting: Maintain accurate records of activities performed in the food forest and assist in the preparation of progress reports as required.

Qualifications:- High school diploma or equivalent required; additional education or training in agriculture, forestry, or related fields preferred.
- Previous experience in agriculture, horticulture, or landscaping is desirable but not required.
- Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions and perform physical tasks such as lifting, bending, and kneeling.
- Strong communication skills and the ability to work effectively as part of a team.
- Willingness to learn and adapt to new tasks and responsibilities.
- Commitment to the goals and values of the Food Forest project and the Yakutat Tlingit Tribe.

Cooperation and Support:The Food Forest project operates in collaboration with various organizations and individuals, including the Yakutat Tlingit Tribe Environmental Department, Human Services Department, and other community partners. The Food Forest .5 FTE Staff will receive guidance and support from project leaders and have the opportunity to engage with community members and stakeholders.

Work Environment/Physical Demands:

The Food Forest Steward will find themselves immersed in an outdoor work environment with temperatures fluctuating from cool to mild summers. The Food Forest Steward will navigate through wooded areas, open fields, and greenhouse structures. The terrain, often uneven or sloped, demands careful navigation and attention to safety, while encounters with local wildlife like bears, moose, and smaller animals add an element of unpredictability.

Physically demanding tasks define the role, requiring regular bending, crouching, stooping, and lifting as staff engage in planting, weeding, and harvesting within the food forest. Moving moderately heavy items such as soil bags, equipment, or harvested produce is a common occurrence. Adaptability to Yakutat's ever-changing weather—be it rain, wind, or sun—is crucial, necessitating appropriate clothing and protective gear. Effective communication and maintaining good physical health and stamina are prerequisites for the job. In sum, the position seeks individuals who embody resilience, physical prowess, and adaptability to thrive in the challenging yet rewarding environment of Yakutat's food forest project.

Supervisory and Management Responsibility:

None.

Disclosures

• We encourage applications from all qualified individuals, regardless of race, sex, disability, religion/belief, sexual orientation, or age.
• The Yakutat Tlingit Tribe maintains a drug-free workplace, and this position may be subject to random drug testing and criminal history checks.
• Preference will be given to qualified candidates who are Alaska Native and/or Yakutat Tlingit Tribal Members.
• Native American preference, as defined in Title 25, US Code, Chapter 14, Subchapter V, Subsection 273 and 274, will be applied to the hiring of this position. We are an equal opportunity employer, with preference given to qualified Native American/Alaska Native applicants in accordance with federal law and tribal policy.