Project Lead- Community Growing

Middlesbrough Environment City; Tees Valley; On-site; GBP 24,000 - 27,000; Full time

Job summary

A community-focused charity in Tees Valley is seeking a Project Lead in Community Growing to empower local communities through hands-on food growing sessions. The role requires strong horticulture experience and a passion for sustainability. In addition to a competitive salary of £24,000 – £27,000, generous benefits and a supportive work environment are offered. Apply by 5:00pm, Monday 13th October 2025 to join in building a fairer and more sustainable community.

Benefits

26 days holiday plus bank holidays

Extra Christmas leave

4% employer pension

CPD support

Paid volunteering leave

Cycle to work scheme

Qualifications

• Significant experience in horticulture or community gardening.
• Experience working with vulnerable adults and young people.
• Passion for sustainability and food equity.

Responsibilities

• Deliver hands-on growing sessions with young people and families.
• Develop skills in sustainable food self-provisioning.
• Lead practical outdoor learning sessions.

Skills

Horticulture experience

Knowledge of sustainable growing practices

Experience with diverse groups

Confidence in leading sessions

Communication skills

Teamwork skills

Education

Qualifications in horticulture

Teaching/training qualifications

First aid knowledge

Job description

Overview

Do you want to empower communities to grow their own food, connect with nature, and build healthier, fairer futures? Are you passionate about sustainability, horticulture, and working alongside local people to create positive change? If so, Middlesbrough Environment City (MEC) wants YOU!

As our new Project Lead in Community Growing, you will be delivering hands-on growing sessions with young people, families, and vulnerable adults. From composting to climate-friendly growing methods and seasonal food production, you will help people develop skills and confidence in sustainable food self-provisioning, while tackling food poverty and inequality.

Why Join Us?

• Lead inspiring, practical projects that address social and environmental needs.
• Work at the heart of the community, turning ideas into thriving growing spaces.
• Be part of a supportive charity with over 30 years’ experience delivering positive change.
• Salary: £24,000 – £27,000 plus generous benefits.

What We’re Looking For

• Significant experience in horticulture or community gardening.
• Strong knowledge of sustainable, seasonal, and organic growing practices.
• Experience working with diverse groups, including vulnerable adults and young people.
• Confidence in leading practical, outdoor learning sessions.
• Passion for sustainability, food equity, and empowering communities.
• Excellent communication and teamwork skills.

(Desirable: Qualifications in horticulture and teaching/training, knowledge of food systems, safeguarding, and first aid.)

Location: MEC Office / Sandy Flatts Allotment, Middlesbrough

Contract: 2 years, full time (37.5 hours per week)

Salary: £24,000 – £27,000 (depending on experience)

Benefits: 26 days holiday + bank holidays, extra Christmas leave, 4% employer pension, CPD support, paid volunteering leave, cycle to work scheme.

Ready to grow change with us? Apply now and help us build a fairer and more sustainable Tees Valley!

Deadline for Applications: 5:00pm, Monday 13th October 2025

Interviews: Monday 3rd November 2025