Full-Time (40 hours/week)
Compensation: $22/hour
Reports to: Social Enterprise & Retail Manager
Resumes accepted until position is filled.
To apply, submit resume and cover letter to: Brian Sweeney, Director of Operations brians@homelessgardenproject.org
Organizational Overview
The Homeless Garden Project (HGP) is a nonprofit organization based in Santa Cruz, CA that provides job training and transitional employment to individuals experiencing homelessness. Through our 3.5-acre certified organic farm and related social enterprises, participants gain hands-on work experience, life skills, and employment readiness. Products grown and produced through our training program are sold through our Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) program, year-round retail store, holiday store, online store, and wholesale channels. The enterprise provides both a meaningful training environment and critical earned revenue to support HGP’s mission.
Position Summary
Under the supervision of the Social Enterprise & Retail Manager, the Value Added Enterprise Associate (VAEA) plays a key role in the production, quality control, fulfillment, and trainee supervision within HGP’s Value-Added Enterprise. The primary focus of this position is to ensure the consistent, high-quality production of all retail products for the Homeless Garden Project store and sales channels, while supporting hands-on job training for program participants. This position balances production execution with mentorship and skill-building.
Core Responsibilities
1. Production & Quality Control (Primary Focus)
Produce and oversee production of all value-added retail products including candles, floral products, herbal goods, and seasonal merchandise. Meet weekly and seasonal production forecasts as set by the Manager. Participate in production planning, weekly production plans. Ensure required raw materials are in supply to meet production goals. Ensure all products meet established quality assurance and safety standards. Follow standardized recipes and production procedures. Maintain consistent product labeling, pricing, and packaging. Track finished goods and support accurate inventory management. Monitor supply levels and communicate reorder needs. Maintain an organized, clean, and safe production workspace.
2. Order Fulfillment & Sales Support
Fill and prepare wholesale orders. Prepare and ship online orders accurately and on time. Support retail inventory replenishment. Assist with store operations as needed, including: POS system Customer service Inventory tracking Holiday and seasonal sales support
3. Job Training & Supervision
Provide hands-on training to program participants in: Product production techniques Quality standards Reading and following recipes Inventory logging and storage procedures Proper labeling and packaging Reinforce workplace expectations including: Reliability Attention to detail Patience and dexterity Professional communication Supervise trainees during scheduled kitchen production days (approximately three times per month: Guide trainees through food-based product preparation Ensuring adherence to food safety standards and kitchen protocols Maintaining organized and sanitary workspaces Monitoring and maintaining adequate kitchen supplies and ingredients Provide feedback to ensure quality standards are met and a positive work environment is maintained. Serve as a positive role model in work ethic and teamwork. Provide constructive feedback to trainees. Communicate regularly with the Manager regarding trainee performance and progress.
4. Workshop Operations & Maintenance
When trainees are not present, responsibilities include: Weekly organization and cleaning of workshop, office, and bathroom spaces. Waste and recycling management. Monitoring workshop conditions (including pest control checks). Ensuring safe and efficient workflow setup.
Qualifications
Required Experience in small-scale production, manufacturing, or artisan goods.
Ability to maintain production schedules and meet deadlines.
Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
Ability to balance production demands with training responsibilities.
Ability to work both independently and collaboratively.
Experience working with individuals coping with significant life challenges.
Strong interpersonal communication skills.
Ability to lift 25 pounds and work extended periods standing, bending, and performing repetitive tasks.
Desired Experience in retail product production (candles, herbal goods, floral design, etc.).
Experience in social enterprise or nonprofit settings.
Experience training or mentoring others in hands-on environments.
Familiarity with inventory systems and order fulfillment processes.
Professional Attributes
The ideal candidate: Is disciplined and production-focused. Understands the importance of consistency and quality in retail goods. Demonstrates patience and steadiness in training environments. Communicates clearly and respectfully. Takes initiative while respecting supervisory structure. Aligns with HGP’s mission to provide job training and transitional employment.
Relationship to Manager Role
This role supports the Social Enterprise & Retail Manager by: Executing production goals. Ensuring daily operational follow-through. Maintaining product quality standards. Supporting trainee skill development. Assisting with fulfillment and store operations.