The Project Coordinator for the Agri-Aquaculture Center of Excellence (AACE) is responsible for managing the day-to-day operations of a dynamic and innovative agricultural facility that includes hoop houses, horticulture, aquaponics, and row crops. This full-time role involves overseeing equipment, coordinating deliveries, identifying grant opportunities, managing volunteers, and leading the farmer’s market. The Coordinator will also support the AACE's mission of economic development, sustainable aquaculture, research and education, and food production acceleration. This position requires a proactive individual with strong organizational skills, a passion for sustainable agriculture, and the ability to work collaboratively with a diverse group of stakeholders.
Key Responsibilities:
1. Operations Management:
o Oversee daily operations of the AACE, ensuring all activities are carried out efficiently and effectively.
o Maintain and manage all equipment and facilities, ensuring they are in good working order.
o Coordinate the scheduling and delivery of supplies and products to and from the Center.
2. Agricultural Management:
o Supervise the cultivation of hoop houses, horticulture plots, aquaponics systems, and row crops.
o Implement best practices in sustainable agriculture to maximize yield and ensure environmental stewardship.
3. Grant Identification and Fundraising:
o Research and identify grant opportunities and other funding sources to support the Center’s programs and initiatives.
o Prepare and submit grant applications, ensuring all necessary documentation and information are provided.
4. Volunteer and Staff Coordination:
o Recruit, train, and manage volunteers to support various activities and projects at the Center.
o Provide guidance and support to volunteers, ensuring they have the necessary tools and knowledge to perform their duties.
5. Farmers Market Management:
o Oversee the planning, promotion, and execution of the Center's farmer’s market.
o Coordinate with local farmers, vendors, and community members to ensure a diverse and successful market.
o Manage market logistics, including setup, sales, and customer service.
6. Community Engagement and Education:
o Develop and implement educational programs and workshops related to sustainable agriculture and aquaculture.
o Foster relationships with local schools, organizations, and community members to promote the Center’s mission and programs.
7. Support Economic Development:
o Support economic development initiatives that create jobs and opportunities in rural communities.
o Design and oversee aquaculture production systems that use aquatic resources for farming while maintaining healthy ecosystems.
8. Research and Extension Activities:
o Support and conduct research, education, and extension activities that train a skilled workforce and support the development of new aquaculture technologies.
9. Food Production Acceleration:
o Implement and manage the food production accelerator to lower the entry barriers for food producers.
o Provide entrepreneurs with manufacturing, packaging, and commercial kitchen services to safely and legally process food.
10. Marketing and Consumer Education:
o Develop marketing programs that educate consumers on the nutritional benefits of seafood products and the sustainable management of responsible aquaculture production.
11. Support for Small and Midsize Producers:
o Provide valuable resources and program information about access to capital, land management, conservation practices, managing risk, and finding local markets.
Qualifications:
Bachelor’s degree in Agriculture, Horticulture, Environmental Science, or a related field. Master’s degree preferred.
Minimum of 3-5 years of experience in project coordination, agricultural management, or a related field.
Knowledge of sustainable agriculture practices, aquaponics systems, and horticulture.
Strong organizational and multitasking skills.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
Experience in grant writing and fundraising.
Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and other relevant software.
Working Conditions:
This position requires working outdoors in various weather conditions.
Must be able to lift and carry up to 50 pounds.
Occasional weekend and evening work may be required.
