The HEAL Project Garden Educator

Organization Name:

The HEAL Project

Job Title:

Garden Educator, In-School Programming (Part-time, Irregular Hours)

Link to The HEAL Project Website

Total Hours:

Three school sites available: one school site averages 18 hours every other week; another school site averages 24 hours every other week; the third averages 15 hours per week. The school sites may be combined based on candidate interest. School garden lessons are scheduled during the school day, typically between 8am and 3pm.

Compensation:

$26.00/hour; earns paid time off

Start Date:

Immediate

Specific Locations:

Garden Village Elementary School, Daly City, and/or Baywood Elementary School, San Mateo, and/or Henry Ford Elementary School, Redwood City

Reports To:

Program Director

About The HEAL Project:

The HEAL Project (THP) is a nonprofit organization providing hands-on programming that instills healthy lifestyle habits in elementary school children while inspiring environmental and agricultural awareness through a comprehensive, interactive curriculum. Our vision is a world where everyone understands the connection between our food, our health and our environment.

In addition to school garden sites throughout San Mateo County, THP operates the San Mateo County School Farm, a 2-acre diversified fruit and vegetable farm in El Granada, California. We grow annual vegetables, berries, cut flowers, and culinary herbs. Produce is primarily used for educational programming, and is also sold at the Coastside Farmers’ Market and donated to the Coastside Hope food pantry. Over 4,000 students visit the farm annually to learn about sustainable agriculture and nutrition and to connect with nature.

Job Description:

The HEAL Project (THP) is seeking a warm, enthusiastic Garden Educator to join our team. This part-time, flexible position is a great fit for anyone who wants to stay connected to local schools, work on a schedule that mirrors the school calendar, and make a meaningful impact on children’s learning.

Garden Educators lead engaging, hands-on lessons for elementary students across San Mateo County. Using THP’s established, award-winning curriculum, educators guide students in exploring science, gardening, nutrition, and environmental stewardship. Lessons are active, outdoor, and aligned with state standards, helping students build curiosity, confidence, and healthy habits.

This role is perfect for someone who enjoys working with children, values time outdoors, and wants to be part of a supportive, mission-driven community while maintaining a flexible schedule.

Position Responsibilities

Garden Education (80%)

• Teach engaging, garden-based science lessons at partner schools and field-based lessons at the School Farm
• Lead students in seasonal cooking and food preparation demonstrations, tastings, and nutrition lessons.
• Facilitate hands-on garden and farm activities such as planting, weeding, composting, harvesting, and nature walks.
• Create a safe, inclusive, and joyful learning environment for all students.

Program Support & Administration (20%)

• Prepare materials and maintain teaching gardens in collaboration with the THP team.
• Track attendance, maintain program documentation, and collect student surveys and assessments.
• Contribute to THP communications by sharing program updates, photos, and stories for newsletters and social media.
• Participate in THP staff meetings, professional development, and training.

Application Instructions:

Email gardens@thehealproject.org with (1) a brief explanation of your interest in the position, and (2) a resume or other detailed summary of your experience. The position will remain open until filled.

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The HEAL Project is an affirmative action/equal opportunity employer. Equal opportunity is given to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, marital status, or status as a covered veteran, in accordance with applicable federal, state and local laws.