Food Systems Coordinator Job Description

Position Overview

The Food Systems Coordinator will play a crucial role in overseeing and coordinating various aspects of Mapleton School District's Farm to School and Farmers Market programs. This position will focus on increasing the use of fresh and locally-grown produce in the school cafeteria, enhancing community resilience by providing food systems education and resources to students and community members, and supporting the growth of the Upriver Farmers Market. 

This is a temporary, grant-funded position for 2025 with the possibility of extension based on funding availability. While listed as a 8 hour/4 day position, we are willing to consider hiring multiple part-time positions based on the skills and interests of applicants. 

Key Responsibilities

School and Community Programs

• Support an afterschool gardening/cooking program during the school year
• Facilitate community engagement in the school garden and community kitchen
• Develop student stipend program for summer garden care

Food System Integration

• Act as a bridge between students and cafeteria staff for meal planning, nutrition education, and recipe development
• Provide direct support in the cafeteria to increase capacity for scratch cooking
• Integrate garden produce into school meals and local nonprofits

Farmers Market Management

• Coordinate the Upriver Farmers Market during summer months
• Facilitate community engagement and vendor participation
• Provide support for student and community vendors, including assistance with start-up expenses and marketing

Local Food Procurement

• Develop relationships with local food producers to increase local food access for the Farmers Market and school cafeteria
• Identify funding mechanisms to increase access to local food in the school cafeteria

Community Outreach and Engagement

• Lead outreach efforts to connect with those in need of the project's services
• Utilize various communication channels, including ParentSquare, social media, and community partnerships
• Conduct targeted outreach in underserved areas

Program Evaluation and Reporting

• Track participation rates, food production, and local food procurement metrics
• Conduct surveys to measure student and community satisfaction
• Monitor economic impact of the program on local farmers and student vendors

Qualifications

• Experience in food systems management, farmers market coordination, or community outreach
• Strong project management and organizational skills
• Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities
• Knowledge of sustainable agriculture practices and local food systems
• Familiarity with school nutrition programs and farm-to-school initiatives
• Ability to work with diverse populations and age groups
• Valid driver's license and reliable transportation

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a related field (e.g., Agriculture, Food Systems, Community Development, or Public Health)
• Experience in grant writing and program sustainability planning
• Knowledge of USDA school meal regulations and SNAP benefits program
• Familiarity with community resilience and emergency preparedness concepts

This position plays a vital role in improving food security, community resilience, and local economic development in the Mapleton area. The ideal candidate will be passionate about sustainable food systems and committed to fostering positive change in the community.

This is a temporary, grant-funded position for 2025 with the possibility of extension based on funding availability. While listed as a 8 hour/4 day position, we are willing to consider hiring multiple part-time positions based on the skills and interests of applicants.