We are hiring!

Seasonal Assistang Facilitator Role

Cultivate Cochrane is gearing up to launch the second year of programming with The Passive Solar Roller - Cochrane’s Mobile Education Greenhouse on wheels!  We are seeking an enthusiastic and adaptable assistant facilitator to bring their love for gardening and coordination and facilitation abilities to carry out our programming goals for 2023 (and beyond!).  

Who is Cultivate Cochrane?

Cultivate Cochrane Society (CCS) is a non-profit society that empowers people to grow their own food through demonstration and education. We collaborate to increase food sovereignty, climate resilience, health and wellbeing. We see the future of Cochrane and area as a vibrant, collaborative place where sustainable agriculture is widely understood and increasingly adopted in our challenging climate. We envision infrastructure existing so nutritious produce is regeneratively grown and accessible to all.

Position details   

The assistant facilitator assists the facilitator with delivery of our education programs for the 2023 programming season (mid May to start of June, with possibility of extension to end of October). 

Duties include:

  • Setting up and taking down displays, planting activities, games

  • Engaging people of all ages and getting them excited about growing their own food

  • Giving tours in the mobile greenhouse

  • Explaining its systems and operation through a conservation lens

  • Teaching about the land and food growing, including such topics as local climate, native plants and insects, introduced species, biodiversity, worm composting, passive solar energy, growing under cover, season extension, plant health, and more.

  • Maintaining programming materials

  • Caring for plants and composting worms

  • Gathering feedback from participants through testimonials or forms

  • Counting participant numbers with the facilitator

  • Harvesting food for donation

  • Other duties as they arise  

The programs will be delivered to:

  • children and youth ages 0-18 in schools and other facilities,

  • members of the public of all ages at public events such as library programs, BGC programs, FCSS programs, Farmer’s Markets, Agricultural Fair, Canada Day events, and more.

Training will be on the job and will include:

  • Plant care and greenhouse growing methods

  • The greenhouse systems and operation

  • About passive and active solar energy

  • Vermiculture (worm composting)

  • Programming topics

  • Guidance on programming for different age groups of students

  • Guidance on programming for the general public

Hours and Wages: 

This an independent contractor position, and work hours will vary. Some flexibility is possible. He or she can expect to work 1-2 days per week, perhaps more, at various locations throughout Cochrane and area. The pay is $18/hr.

This position can be a stepping stone to future positions with Cultivate Cochrane and may result in connections in the Cochrane and area non-profit network and other networks.

Qualifications: 

  • Previous experience working with children and youth

  • Adaptable to changing circumstances

  • Punctual and reliable

  • Energetic, enthusiastic, friendly, attentive, and communicative

  • Interested in and has some knowledge of conservation and the environment

  • Has a valid drivers’ license and reliable source of transportation to drive to programming locations (a vehicle will not be provided)

  • Has access to a reliable electronic device (laptop, tablet, smartphone) for communication purposes and reporting

  • Must be willing to obtain a Police Record check with vulnerable sector

The ideal candidate:

  • Has stories, knowledge, perspectives to share on growing, the land, ecology, or related topics

  • Has some background knowledge in gardening / food growing

  • Is comfortable working outdoors in a variety of weather conditions

  • Has First Aid Training

  • Can follow directions but can act independently to do what is needed

To Apply:

Please submit your resume and cover letter to programs@cultivatecochrane.com. Please include “Assistant Facilitator Position” in the subject line of your email.

We thank all interested candidates for applying, however, only candidates selected for an interview will be contacted. 

Applications will remain open until a suitable candidate is found.



We look forward to hearing from you!

The Team at Cultivate Cochrane