Seattle Tilth is a fast growing, dynamic organization that believes all people deserve access to healthy, nutritious food and that changing the way we grow, cook and eat food has the potential to transform people’s lives as well as the communities in which we live. Seattle Tilth Produce (STP) is an integral part of our work, expanding access to healthy, locally grown food for underserved King County residents as well as providing fair market value to beginning farmers. This is accomplished through the Good Food Bag program (heavily subsidized bags of produce), acceptance of SNAP Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) and Fresh Bucks for Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) subscriptions and market stands, and working with Seattle Youth Garden Works.

The Good Food Access VISTA will work closely with the Food Hub Manager to build capacity within our existing programs as well as develop new areas of programming. This includes expansion of the Good Food Bag program through implementing policies and doing outreach to onboard new partner distribution sites and working to improve sourcing and packing processes, establishing systems to support the Seattle Youth Garden Works job training program, as well as coordinating efforts to increase EBT/SNAP access to local and organic foods. In addition, s/he will create a framework for donation of Seattle Tilth produce to the emergency food system as well as develop vision and plan for the next 3-5 years of the program.

The successful candidate will have a basic understanding of food systems, farms and alternative food distribution models as well as one year of non-profit work experience, college degree in a related field, or equivalent experience. Experience working with food consumers, especially those on SNAP/EBT or a limited budget is important as is a willingness to maintain a strong work ethic in the face of challenges such as living within the means of the VISTA living stipend (see below). Graphic design experience and a current driver’s license are preferred. In addition, self-direction, strong organizational and time management skills, proficiency with Microsoft Office and a commitment to local, sustainable and equitable food systems are required.

Since this is an Americorps/VISTA position, applicants must also meet the following minimum standards of eligibility:

• Be at least 18 years old upon entering VISTA training. There is no upper age limit.
• Be U.S. citizens or have permanent resident status.
• Not be listed in the National Sex Offender Registry database as having been convicted of sex-related crimes.
• Be willing to submit fingerprints for a criminal history background check. AmeriCorps assesses criminal history on a case-by-case basis when determining applicant eligibility.
• Be in a position to offer full-time service for one year without regard to regular working hours.
• Be able to exhibit previous education, training, military, or work experience, and any other relevant skills or interests necessary to perform a specific VISTA assignment. VISTA requires applicants to have a high school diploma/ equivalent or be working toward completing one during the service year.
• Be willing, to the maximum extent practicable, to live among and at the economic level of the low-income people served by VISTA projects.
• Understand that VISTAs serve on a full-time basis. Therefore, VISTAs cannot enroll in school except in limited circumstances or be subjects of legal proceedings (civil or criminal) that may consume time needed for VISTA assignments. VISTA service cannot be used to satisfy service requirements of parole or probation. VISTAs may have additional employment outside of AmeriCorps but this employment should not interfere with the VISTA project.

This is a full time, one year placement that requires occasional evening and weekend work. Benefits include:

• Living allowance: Approximately $1,069/month (before taxes)
• Health benefits in compliance with the minimum coverage standards of the ACA
• End of Service Award: $5,730 Education Award or $1,500 cash stipend
• Student loan deferment or forbearance
• Childcare assistance
• 10 days of sick leave, 10 days of vacation leave
• Professional work experience
• In-service training
• One year of non-competitive eligibility for Federal jobs
• Orca pass
• Access to Seattle Tilth classes and fresh produce