Full Time Work Opportunity with Sustainable Food Systems

Sustainable Food Systems Network AmeriCorps 

The SFSN is seeking a full-term AmeriCorps member to build capacity in support of our community wellness goals to 1) educate people about food system sustainability and health, and 2) strengthen the local community through growing, promoting and donating local foods. Under supervision of the SFSN Associate Director, the AmeriCorps member will collaborate with students, faculty, community organizations and volunteers to design, implement and evaluate programs that support local food security, economic development and personal engagement with our food system.  

AmeriCorps responsibilities include: 

1. Collaborate with community partners, students and faculty to develop and sustain SFSN programs.  
2. Develop and coordinate partnerships between university faculty and courses, and local food and agriculture systems organizations, such as area food banks, local food coops and local farms. 
3. Recruit, train and provide support to volunteers serving with the SFSN and community partners, including produce for donation to area food banks and pantries through Community Harvest. 
4. Coordinate and lead Student Farm tours for students, youth, community members and others. 
5. Assist and support student leaders with farm and program tasks, trainings and events, including produce donations through Food Recovery Network, the Lion’s Pantry, the Feed the People market stand, and other local food security programs. 
6. Research, develop and conduct educational and outreach initiatives on topics such as food security, gardening, nutrition and healthy food access. 
7. Coordinate with Centre County partners to plan and carry out county-wide events and activities focused on enhancing the food system, such as proposing a seed saving garden and a youth gardens network. 
8. Develop and implement tools for continuously tracking program outcomes. Present program outcomes and data to university, governmental and community stakeholders. 

Qualifications: 

1. Must meet all Penn State clearance and background check requirements.
2. Superb written, interpersonal and oral communication skills. 
3. Able to learn quickly, prioritize multiple projects, manage schedule independently, meet deadlines and enjoy a fast-paced work environment. 
4. Relevant ability working with underserved and/or underrepresented populations. 
5. Able to work with diverse groups and individuals in indoor and outdoor settings, and lift at least 40 pounds. 
6. Interest in and knowledge about food systems concepts and/or community organizing preferred. 
7. Valid driver’s license, own transportation. 
8. Bachelor’s degree preferred. Current Penn State students are eligible as well. 

Position location: Penn State University Park campus in State College, PA 

Service term: May 13, 2024 – August 1, 2025; avg. 35-40 hours per week 

AmeriCorps stipend: biweekly living stipend throughout the term, and an education award upon service term completion. Office space provided at University Park campus. Please see http://www.pmsc.org/become-a-member/ for additional information about AmeriCorps service. 

To apply: Submit a resume, cover letter and two references’ contact info with the subject line “2024 SFSP AmeriCorps Application” to Leslie Pillen at lrp143@psu.edu. Interviews will begin March 11, 2024 and continue until the position is filled.