Location: Fremont, California (primarily onsite)
Position type: Part-time
About LEAF:
Local Ecology and Agriculture Fremont (LEAF) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting regenerative agriculture, sustainability, and food equity in our community. Since 2008, LEAF has been a cornerstone for environmental education and garden-based community engagement, cultivating nutritious, culturally relevant food for underserved communities and empowering residents to adopt sustainable practices.
Position Overview:
The Community Garden Operations & Education Intern will gain hands-on experience in regenerative agriculture, garden management, and community education. This role is ideal for individuals passionate about environmental justice and sustainable food systems. You will contribute to our mission by managing nursery operations, leading and coordinating educational programs, participating in garden maintenance, and collaborating with our partners to support community-focused initiatives.
Key Responsibilities:
Nursery & Propagation: Manage our nursery to grow culturally relevant produce for our food donation program, develop essential propagation skills, and coordinate our plant sale program.
Education & Garden Operations: Act as a lead gardener and educator, coordinating garden-based educational programs and volunteer events for a diverse community, and helping develop curriculum around sustainable gardening practices.
Community Collaboration: Work with LEAF’s team to promote educational and gardening initiatives, including educational programming and outreach efforts like tabling events and volunteer days with partners and donors.
Qualifications:
Currently enrolled in or graduated within the past 2 years from an Associate's, Bachelor's, or graduate program in environmental science, horticulture, agroecology, or related field
Experience in regenerative agriculture, nursery operations, horticulture, or related agricultural fields
Demonstrated experience in leading projects, coordinating activities, or guiding teams, especially in community or educational settings
Passionate about regenerative agriculture, food equity, and community environmental education
Strong communication, organizational, problem-solving, and leadership skills
Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a hands-on environment
Compensation:
Wage: $20/hour
Estimated hours: 10-15 hours per week
Timeline and Hours:
This internship position spans approximately March through December 2025, requiring an average commitment of 10-15 hours per week. While most responsibilities will be performed on-site, select tasks may be completed remotely. Weekly hours may fluctuate seasonally, with the possibility of increasing up to 20 hours during peak periods.
Professional Development Opportunities:
LEAF is committed to providing a valuable learning experience. The intern will gain practical knowledge from skilled mentors in regenerative agriculture, engage in professional workshops, and collaborate on impactful community programs with LEAF’s partners.
Application Process:
To apply, please send your resume and a cover letter detailing your interest and relevant experience to grants@fremontleaf.org by February 10, 2025. We encourage applicants from diverse backgrounds who are passionate about food systems and environmental justice.
Equal Opportunity Statement:
LEAF is an equal-opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees and interns.
Please hit the donate button if you feel aligned with our mission so we can continue to develop spaces to educate our community, build healthy soil, and provide food for those most in need.
Any amount you can give is greatly appreciated.
We also accept checks. Payable to LEAF at PO Box 2816, Fremont CA 94536.
©2023 Local Ecology and Agriculture Fremont (LEAF)
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