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Inside Higher Ed

Community Gardens Program Manager

Inside Higher Ed, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, United States, 27517

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Seniority level Mid-Senior level

Employment type Full-time

Job function Project Management and Information Technology

Industries Online Audio and Video Media

Overview Join to apply for the

Community Gardens Program Manager

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Inside Higher Ed . Inside Higher Ed is a global higher education leader in innovative teaching, research and public service, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill consistently ranks as one of the nation’s top public universities. Known for its beautiful campus, world-class medical care, commitment to the arts and top athletic programs, Carolina is an ideal place to teach, work and learn. One of the best college towns and best places to live in the United States, Chapel Hill has diverse social, cultural, recreation and professional opportunities that span the campus and community. University employees can choose from a wide range of professional training opportunities for career growth, skill development and lifelong learning and enjoy exclusive perks for numerous retail, restaurant and performing arts discounts, savings on local child care centers and special rates on select campus events. UNC-Chapel Hill offers full-time employees a comprehensive benefits package, paid leave, and a variety of health, life and retirement plans and additional programs that support a healthy work/life balance.

Position Summary The Community Gardens Program Manager leads the Carolina Community Garden and Edible Campus UNC, two North Carolina Botanical Garden programs that promote sustainable agriculture, food access, and experiential learning. Reporting to the Director of Learning & Community Engagement, this role oversees operations, program development, and administration, while promoting NCBG’s mission to connect plants, people, and place through science, engagement, and conservation.

Position Details Posting Open Date: 10/09/2025 Application Deadline: 10/24/2025 Proposed Start Date: 12/01/2025 Hiring Range: $59,310 - $60,000

Minimum Education And Experience Requirements Relevant post-Baccalaureate degree required (or foreign degree equivalent); for candidates demonstrating comparable independent educational or instructional activities relevant to the teaching assignment, will accept a relevant Bachelor’s degree (or foreign degree equivalent) and 3 or more years of relevant experience in substitution. In addition, the position minimums should satisfy any accreditation requirements in the specified area of instruction.

Required Qualifications, Competencies, And Experience

Technical Knowledge & Experience

Strong working knowledge of organic gardening and sustainable agricultural practices, with hands‑on experience in producing a variety of edible foods.

Skilled in all aspects of garden operations, including bed creation and preparation, seeding, transplanting, weeding, pruning, harvesting, greenhouse propagation, composting, and irrigation system maintenance.

Demonstrated ability to design, construct, and maintain garden infrastructure, signage, and accessible features.

Knowledgeable in sustainability principles, food systems, and environmental and food justice issues, ensuring garden operations align with ecological and community‑focused goals.

Proficiency in Microsoft 365 applications (Outlook, Word, Excel, Teams, etc.).

Leadership & Management

Experience recruiting, training, motivating, and managing staff and volunteers.

Strong team‑building skills with the ability to foster engagement, collaboration, and accountability.

Proven ability to prioritize tasks, manage multiple projects simultaneously, and maintain high standards of quality.

Self‑motivated, creative, and detail‑oriented, and capable of independently identifying opportunities for improvement and implementing solutions.

Interpersonal & Communication Skills

Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

Strong interpersonal skills with a helpful, friendly, and professional approach when working with students, staff, volunteers, and community partners.

Adept at building positive relationships and promoting a welcoming, inclusive environment that encourages participation and collaboration.

Additional Requirements

Willingness to work flexible hours, including regular weekends.

Valid North Carolina driver’s license or ability to obtain one.

CPR and First Aid certification or ability to obtain within one month of hire.

Preferred Qualifications, Competencies, And Experience

At least three years of relevant experience in organic gardening and sustainable agriculture.

Experience managing a community garden, school garden, or similar garden‑based program.

Experience developing and/or leading educational or community programming, especially in horticulture, environmental education or food justice.

Demonstrated capacity to work effectively in a University environment, including with students and faculty, and within the overall mission and goals of an educational institution.

Experience working with individuals and organizations across cultural, socioeconomic, and organizational contexts.

Demonstrated success in fundraising, including grant writing, donor cultivation, and/or securing in‑kind contributions.

Special Physical/Mental Requirements

Ability to work outdoors in a variety of weather conditions, including heat, humidity, and cold with or without reasonable accommodation.

Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds, with or without reasonable accommodation.

Must be able to bend, squat, kneel, stand, and walk for extended periods and to navigate uneven grounds and move efficiently through garden sites with or without reasonable accommodation.

Proficient in the safe and proper use of standard gardening tools and equipment (e.g., shovels, hoses, pruning shears, wheelbarrows) with or without reasonable accommodation.

Campus Security Authority Responsibilities Not Applicable.

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