Job Description

Title:                           Community Engager/Market Support

Reports to:               Administrative Manager

Term:                         Part-Time, Temporary Contract

Contract:                  5-month contract, starting June ending early November 2024

Hours:                       25 hours per week, flexibility is required.

INCLUDE COVER LETTER AND RESUME.

Application Deadline: May 30, 2024

Pursuant to Section 24 of the Ontario Human Rights Code (the Code), this position will give preference to applicants who identify as a member of an Indigenous community (First Nations, Métis and Inuit peoples). Candidates from this designated group are invited to self-identify in their cover letter, in a transparent manner, as part of the application process. 

Niwasa Kendaaswin Teg is dedicated to offering holistic programs and services deeply rooted in Indigenous culture and language. Our vision encompasses fostering Strong Cultural Identity and Healthy Families. Meanwhile, McQuesten Urban Farm serves as a pioneering neighborhood development initiative, fostering a space where individuals unite to cultivate, cook, share, and advocate for wholesome food.

Role Overview:

As a Community Engager, you will collaborate with local elementary schools, families, and community members to spearhead enriching farm programs and educational workshops. Additionally, you will cultivate partnerships, coordinate volunteer efforts, and support the overall development and maintenance of the project. The Market Attendant role involves engaging with the public, ensuring a welcoming market environment, and contributing to the smooth operation of McQuesten Urban Farm’s market space.

Key Responsibilities:

Community Engager:

  • Lead farm programming and educational workshops for local schools, focusing on curriculum-linked themes such as food & nutrition, arts & crafts, and more.
  • Cultivate partnerships with community stakeholders, businesses, and organizations to bolster program participation and support fundraising efforts.
  • Collaborate with the Farm team to shape project processes and design.
  • Coordinate training sessions for project-related aspects and support farm and greenhouse animation.
  • Assist with food production following organic practices and standards.
  • Organize and deliver workshops, outreach, and information sessions.
  • Facilitate volunteer recruitment, training, and management for project sustainability.
  • Handle administrative tasks and evaluations, contributing to the project’s overall efficiency and success.
  • Contribute to the development of food security networks and community initiatives.

Market Attendant:

  • Provide friendly and informative customer service to market attendees and vendors.
  • Assist with market setup, cleanup, and maintenance, ensuring a pristine environment.
  • Maintain accurate sales data and gather feedback to enhance market operations.
  • Alert supervisors to any equipment or facility maintenance needs to uphold safety standards.
  • Adhere to organizational policies and procedures, as well as relevant legislation.

Working Conditions:

  • Work will involve both indoor and outdoor settings, potentially in various weather conditions.
    • Moderate physical demands including sitting, standing, kneeling, stooping, and lifting.
    • Interaction with diverse stakeholders including children, families, staff, and visitors.
    • Occasional evening and weekend work will be required.
    • Proficiency in cash handling and use of sales terminals.
    • Comfort with using social media platforms for promotional purposes.

Qualifications:

  • Previous sales experience and strong mathematical skills.
    • Familiarity with social media platforms (e.g., Twitter, Facebook, Instagram) is advantageous.
    • Knowledge of safe food handling and organic farming practices preferred.
    • Experience working with Indigenous communities, children, and families is an asset.
    • Proficiency in leading workshops and presentations.
    • Strong organizational skills and ability to work independently and collaboratively.
    • Clear Vulnerable Sector Screening required.
    • Food Handler’s Certificate preferred.
    • Ability to lift, push, and pull heavy items exceeding 50 lbs.

Join us in our mission to promote community well-being and food sustainability through engaging programs and initiatives. Apply now to be a part of our dynamic team!