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Join, Volunteer, or Donate

For three decades, Boston Natural Areas Network has been supported by the generosity of individuals, corporations and foundations. This commitment to BNAN has resulted in the protection of more than 800-acres of urban wilds, the creation of two Greenway networks, and the protection and maintenance of 150 active community gardens, not to mention 33 years of advocacy and building stewardship throughout Boston and its neighborhoods.

There are many ways to show support for our mission:

  • Become a member and enjoy many valuable benefits;
  • Volunteer your time for any number of gardening, educational, recreational or advocacy opportunities;
  • or simply contribute to the cause.

Current Job Announcements

Urban Grower Position Description:

Are you interested in sustainable farming and education? Do you enjoy working with youth, goal setting and collaborating? Do you like to work with lots of people? If yes, this may be the job for you!

Boston Natural Areas Network (BNAN) is expanding its Youth Conservations Corps program this year by introducing youth to food production by cultivating two new farm sites in Boston. Working with youth and volunteers, we will cultivate a food production site in Hyde Park where produce will be donated to local food pantries and other local food access programs. A rooftop farm in Roxbury will be cultivated to provide nutritious food for needy families. We are looking for someone who is excited about sustainable farming and who is up to the challenge of the physically demanding schedule, tasks, and pace of the growing season.

You will be working many people, both volunteers and youth, and groups large and small. Ideally, you are flexible and personable, have a great sense of humor, have at least one year of experience at a production farm, and can be happy directing a small farm crew. There is an intensive collaborative aspect of this position, which will require that you participate in group and individual check-ins and goal setting.

This is a full-time 40 hour a week (flexible hours), non-permanent position with a work period of May 2012 through April 2013. The Urban Grower reports to the Director of Property and Horticulture. The work schedule is typically Monday through Friday and includes weekend hours. Benefits during the employment period will be provided.

Responsibilities:

  • Develop seasonal soil preparation, planting, management and harvesting plans for two small farms: a 6,000 sq. foot. rooftop site and a 4,000 sq. ft. raised bed garden. Organic management practices required
  • Develop annual budget for the cultivation of both sites. Manage purchases and expenses within budget
  • Manage the implementation of the plans referenced above with volunteer and youth corps support
  • Propagate plants and perform nursery maintenance tasks
  • Develop work plans at both sites to support youth corps supervisors. Integrate youth corps curriculum within work plans
  • Research, develop and implement season extension, composting, and water collection, storage and reuse systems at these and other sites
  • Operate and maintain tools and equipment in a safe and proper manner and instruct volunteers and youth corps in same
  • Participate in staff meetings designed to establish goals and priorities
  • Interact effectively with BNAN staff and property owners to communicate issues with infrastructure, maintenance, safety and support at the farm sites

    • Qualifications:

    Education-

  • Bachelor or Associate degree in Horticulture and Agronomy or related field preferred. Relevant education, intern and or work experience may be acceptable.

    • Experience-

  • Two or more years of farming or related horticulture experience required. Experience working in an urban public park or garden, plus working with interns and volunteers is a plus.
  • Proficiency in use of garden tools and equipment required.
  • Must have a valid US driver’s license in good standing.
  • Experience with previous youth agriculture programs a plus.

    • Knowledge and skills-

  • Ability to work independently when required in an effective manner.
  • Strong attention to detail in all aspects of job performance.
  • Possess strong organizational, technical and analytical skills, and contribute to a positive team environment.
  • A willingness to learn and advance one’s skill sets.
  • Demonstrated interpersonal skills and commitment to a positive public experience, and concern for the environment and people’s relationship to it.
  • Must be able to work outside in all types of weather, kneel or stand for periods of time, and able to lift and carry 50 pounds.
  • The accepted candidate will be required to have a successful completion of a CORE background check with emphasis on their suitability to work with youth.
  • Knowledge of a second language is a plus

    • Salary:
    Depends on experience.

    How to Apply:
    Please send the following: (a) one page cover letter, (b) resume, and (c) the names and telephone numbers of three references by e-mail to: info@bostonnatural.org with the job title in the subject line or by mail to: Boston Natural Areas Network, 62 Summer St., Boston, MA 02110. Please include your first and last name in the names of the file attachments. No phone calls, please. Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis; applicants are encouraged to send materials soon.

    Click here to download Urban Grower position description as a printable pdf

    BNAN is an equal opportunity employer, which encourages qualified applicants of all races, ethnicities, genders, and sexual orientations.

    Boston Natural Areas Network - Youth Conservation Corps
    Now Hiring Adult Staff
    Dorchester Crew Supervisor

    Program Description:
    Youth Conservation Corps employs teens as stewards of the natural environment in their own neighborhoods working cooperatively to complete conservation projects while earning much-needed income. BNAN is looking for committed, energetic adults with a passion for the outdoors to work with teens for what will be YCC’s 18th summer.

    Youth Conservation Corps Staff Position:
    Crew Supervisor (1 opening)

    Crew Location:
    Neponset Greenway – Pope John Paul II Park, Dorchester

    Responsibilities: The Crew Supervisor is responsible for leading a team of 10-12 urban youth, ages 15-17 to complete outdoor work projects at Pope John Paul II Park in Dorchester. The Supervisor will be accountable for the physical work, wellbeing, behavior and safety of the crewmembers. Daily tasks include coordinating the crew’s approach to work projects, teaching and following best practices, delivering formal and informal environmental education, and facilitating teambuilding activities. Working with BNAN staff and on-site project partners, the Supervisor is responsible for high quality project outcome and learning experience of the youth.

    Requirements:
    At least 21 years of age
    Minimum two years’ experience working with and positively motivating urban teens
    Strong leadership, conflict-resolution and teambuilding skills
    Physically fit and up to the challenge of demanding conservation work
    Teaching or youth development experience, especially in environmental education
    Ability to work independently, exercise good judgment and adapt under changing conditions
    Familiarity with Dorchester or native of Boston a plus
    Current First Aid & CPR certification by youth start date (7/9)

    Work Schedule, Dates and Salary:
    30 hrs/wk, End of June – Aug. 24, $20/hr
    Paid Training: June 23, 25-27, July 1-2, schedule TBA
    Typical work schedule 8:00AM – 2:00PM, Mon-Fri when in session July-Aug

    To Apply:
    Send a resume and detailed cover letter describing why you will make an exceptional Crew supervisor to Candice Cook, Program Manager candice@bostonnatural.org. Please include your first and last name in the title of your file attachments. Application Deadline: May 18, 2012. Interviews will be scheduled on a rolling basis, applying early encouraged.

    Click here to download Supervisor job description.