New Roots Education & Outreach Specialist

International Rescue Committee - Tucson, AZ

Full-time - Entry Level

Remote - Tucson, AZ

Social Assistance

About the position

The New Roots Education and Outreach Specialist at the International Rescue Committee (IRC) is responsible for assisting refugee and asylee clients in adapting to the American food system. This role involves teaching clients how to engage as small-scale urban farmers and gardeners, implementing existing curricula, and expanding educational offerings to include financial literacy and marketing skills. The Specialist will coordinate various opportunities for clients to learn and participate in the program, aiming to enhance their agricultural skills and independence in the local food market.

Responsibilities

• Implement existing garden and farm training curriculum and enhance it to address client needs.
• Draw on expertise in modern farming techniques and agricultural science to modify trainings for participants.
• Organize and conduct local farm and market tours for New Roots clients.
• Conduct educational field trips to farmers markets, teaching clients about selling at such markets.
• Perform outreach activities to educate and engage local residents and organizations about the IRC and New Roots Program.
• Connect refugee farmers to local restaurants and market venues, managing client-market relationships.
• Develop and maintain community partnerships and provide data as requested by partners.
• Recruit volunteers and conduct monthly volunteer days at farm/garden sites.
• Conduct weekly trainings and outreach activities at current farm/garden sites.
• Ensure all grant outcomes are met and conduct participant surveys for workshops.

Requirements

• High school diploma; Bachelor's degree in agriculture or education field preferred.
• One+ year related professional experience, including experience with refugee-related work.
• Demonstrated agricultural knowledge relevant to arid desert climates.
• Understanding of fiscal management and reporting.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, especially with limited-English speakers.
• Experience working in a multi-cultural environment.
• Advanced computer skills including word processing, database systems, and Microsoft Office.

Nice-to-haves

• Bilingual ability in Swahili, Kirundi, Kinyarwanda, Spanish, Dari, Arabic, French, or other refugee/immigrant languages used in Arizona.

Benefits

• 403(b) retirement savings plan with matching contributions
• Dental insurance
• Disability insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Paid holidays