The Federal Work Study (FWS) program is intended to provide a meaningful job experience, with direct supervision, that complements and reinforces the recipient’s educational program and/or career goals.   Outcomes from the Federal Work Study program include:   

• Increased communication skills
• Problem-solving skills
• Strong work ethic
• Time management abilities
• Working within a team environment

 POSITION:  Federal Work Study - Campus Garden 

 DEPARTMENT:  Behavioral Sciences 

RESPONSIBILITIES:

The Campus Garden Coordinator will support the planning, maintenance, and daily operations of the campus garden.  This student employee will help ensure the garden remains productive, organized, and connected to the broader campus and local community.  Responsibilities include coordinating volunteers, maintaining care schedules, tracking harvest yields, facilitating food donation efforts, and creating educational materials to promote gardening knowledge and sustainability.

• Coordinate student, faculty, and staff volunteers for planting, watering, weeding, harvesting, and garden upkeep. 
• Develop and maintain a schedule for routine garden care, including watering, weeding, and harvesting tasks. 
• Monitor garden conditions and communicate maintenance needs to supervisor. 
• Weigh and document harvested produce; maintain accurate records of harvest totals and distribution. 
• Ensure harvested food is properly distributed through campus use, campus food pantry, or donation to local food pantries/community partners. 
• Assist with planting seasonal crops and maintaining healthy garden beds. 
• Create educational signage and materials about plants, including: 
  • Plant names and varieties 
  • Watering needs 
  • Sunlight/shade requirements 
  • Expected harvest times 
  • Basic growing tips 
• Promote awareness of the campus garden through outreach, events, or informational activities. 
• Support campus sustainability, food security, and service-learning initiatives related to the garden. 
• Perform other garden-related duties as assigned.

 REQUIREMENTS:

• Must be eligible for Federal Work-Study and enrolled full-time at the University of Saint Mary
• Enrolled in summer coursework and available to work during summer months. 
• Available to assist with campus activities and occasional volunteer events. 
• Interest in gardening, sustainability, food justice, environmental studies, biology, agriculture, or community service. 
• Strong organizational and communication skills. 
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively with others. 
• Dependable, punctual, and detail-oriented. 
• Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions and perform light physical tasks (lifting, bending, carrying tools/watering cans). 
• Previous gardening or volunteer coordination experience preferred but not required.

Saint Mary is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Questions: email human resources at hr@stmary.edu