Reports To: Community Development Manager

Job Purpose:The Community Development Officer will oversee the operations of a community garden, ensuring its sustainability and success. The garden should be developed with environmental and sustainable principles to promote pollinators, biodiversity, and ecosystems. This role involves supporting, recruiting, and managing volunteers, coordinating garden activities, and promoting community engagement and education.

Key Responsibilities:

• Garden Management:Oversee the day-to-day operations of the community garden, ensuring that it is well-maintained and productive.
• Volunteer Coordination:Recruit, train, and support volunteers to participate in garden activities. Facilitate a positive and inclusive environment for all participants.
• Program Development:Develop and implement environmentally sensitive gardening programs and workshops to educate community members and visitors about sustainable gardening practices.
• Community Engagement:Promote the community garden through outreach efforts, including social media, local events, and partnerships with other organisations.
• Resource Management:Manage a budget and garden resources, including tools, seeds, and supplies, ensuring they are used effectively and sustainably.
• Reporting and Evaluation:Track and report on the progress of garden projects and volunteer activities for funders. Evaluate the impact of the community garden on the local community and identify areas for improvement.
• Grant Writing and Fundraising:Assist in identifying funding opportunities and writing grant proposals to support the community garden's initiatives and growth.

Qualifications:

• Education:A qualification (or evidence of experience) in community development, environmental science, horticulture, or a related field is desirable.
• Experience:Previous experience in community development, volunteer management, or gardening is highly desirable. Experience in carrying out risk assessments and implementing controls is essential.
• Skills:Excellent organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills. Ability to work independently and as part of a team. Knowledge of sustainable gardening practices and principles.
• Personal Attributes:Passion for community engagement and sustainable development. Creative, proactive, and adaptable with a strong commitment to making a positive impact.

Working Conditions:

• Flexible working hours, including some evenings and weekends to accommodate community events and volunteer schedules.
• Outdoor work in various weather conditions.
• Be prepared to work between various venues within the community and surrounding area.
• Must be prepared to undertake training if required for the role, which may be in person or online.

Additional Requirements:

• There is no public transport, so the successful candidate will need to be able to get to the garden site and other local venues.
• The successful candidate will need to obtain a PVG (protection of vulnerable groups) certificate from Disclosure Scotland.

Salary:

• £18 per hour
• The post will be for one day per week for one year