Seasonal Compost Education Specialist

CL 4c9d52fc 95bb 4695 86c6 020a9244f791; New York (NY); On-site; USD 30,000 - 41,000; Part time

Job summary

Brooklyn Botanic Garden is seeking a Seasonal Community Composting Assistant & Instructor in Brooklyn, NY. The role supports the Community Field Manager, delivering compost and horticulture education to diverse community groups, both on- and off-site.

The position runs Sept 2026–June 30, 2027, up to 20 hours/week, at $26/hour. Strong teaching skills, community engagement, and ability to work outdoors are essential.

Qualifications

• BA or BS degree in education, horticulture, environmental science, or related field preferred or 2 years’ related career experience in composting, horticulture or education
• Demonstrated experience working with diverse communities and commitment to environmental and social justice
• Knowledge of gardening practices and compost science
• Experience with educating adult learners in formal or informal settings
• Master Composter certification preferred
• Excellent writing and teaching skills
• Willingness to work outdoors daily and lift up to 30 pounds
• Knowledge of a second language a plus

Responsibilities

• Design and facilitate compost- and soil-focused curricula, classes, and programs for adult learners involved in BBG Community Greening programs
• Participate in the ongoing development, implementation, and facilitation of the BUG program, including co-facilitation and preparing materials for instruction
• Develop and facilitate compost programs for Discovery Garden and special events at the Garden
• Assist with nursery logistics required for plant material maintenance and distribution; logistics and acquisition of in-kind donations
• Develop and deliver educational events on best practices in urban composting both at BBG and in community spaces
• Uphold an inclusive, antiracist environment for our diverse students, volunteers, and staff to ensure programs are safe, welcoming, and engaging
• Assist with planning and executing annual Making Brooklyn Bloom conference, including organizing speakers, workshops, and exhibitors; managing lead‑up and day‑of operations
• Maintain and update Community Garden Alliance database, including contact information for program constituents and seasonal data projects
• Assist with planning and execution of Alliance plant giveaway and networking events at BBG as well as community workdays at compost/Alliance sites
• Coordinate acquisition of compost for community giveaways and demonstrations
• Attend meetings with partnering organizations such as the New York City Community Compost Network and report back to team
• Assist in writing and updating horticulture and compost tip sheets and articles
• Conduct outreach and tabling at public events
• Perform other related duties or special projects as needed

Skills

Driver's license

Community engagement

Gardening knowledge

Adult education

Writing and teaching

Microsoft Office

Outdoor work

Physical fitness

Bilingual (plus)

Education

BA/BS in related field preferred

Master Composter certification preferred

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

Brooklyn Botanic Garden is seeking a Seasonal Community Composting Assistant & Instructor in Brooklyn, NY. The role supports the Community Field Manager, delivering compost and horticulture education to diverse community groups, both on- and off-site.

The position runs Sept 2026–June 30, 2027, up to 20 hours/week, at $26/hour. Strong teaching skills, community engagement, and ability to work outdoors are essential.