Hiring: Program Coordinator
Program Description
Urban Ambassadors is partnering with the City of Des Moines on the Tiny Trees Neighborhood Program, part of a multi-million-dollar federal grant Urban Ambassadors helped secure for the city's forestry programs. The goal of this program is to plant trees throughout neighborhoods of Des Moines to provide the many benefits that urban canopy provides to neighborhoods and residents. Urban Ambassadors is one of the lead organizations responsible for program execution.
Position Description
Urban Ambassadors is seeking a part-time, hourly Program Coordinator to lead the Tiny Trees Neighborhood Program. The Program Coordinator will be responsible for ensuring the completion of all program activities related to tree planting and care. The highlight of this role will be active, hands-on participation in outdoor events such as tree plantings, as well as leadership of volunteers at these events. Additionally, the position includes extensive collaboration with internal and external partners.
With flexible work hours, the Program Coordinator will be responsible for managing their own time and all program work. Planning and follow-through are critical to the success of each event and the overall program. The Program Coordinator will independently initiate and drive all program activities to completion, including:
● Sourcing trees and planting materials
● Selecting locations for tree plantings
● Organizing tree plantings
● Coordinating watering and care after trees are planted
● Managing administrative requirements of the program
Commitment
Duration: Through end of 2027 with possibility to extend pending program extension Schedule: Year-round position Hours: Average 10-20 hours per week with up to 40 hours per week during planting seasons (spring and fall) and minimal hours in winter Availability: Flexible hours during
weekdays, evenings, and weekends with frequent weekend events during planting seasons Compensation: $25 per hour, contracted role
Responsibilities
Planning and Administration
● Collaborate with UA board members, tree team members, and program partners at the City of Des Moines to achieve program objectives
● Schedule and plan program events
● Organize and lead tree team meetings
● Select neighborhoods and streets for tree plantings based on program criteria
Community Engagement
● Recruit volunteers for program events in coordination with UA outreach and social media coordinator
● Teach volunteers necessary skills for tree planting and care
● Communicate with neighborhood residents about trees and tree care Field Operations
● Lead program events including planting site analysis, tree plantings, weekly watering, and other care as needed
● Source, transport, and prepare trees and planting materials
● Support volunteers during tree plantings
Reporting
● Track trees planted, tree waterings, and other care provided
● Track program expenses
● Report program progress to UA board members and city partners
Qualifications
Required:
● Independent, motivated, outgoing, and energetic
● Excellent verbal and written communication skills
● Strong organizational skills
● Basic computer skills
● Competence with web-based collaboration platforms, such as Google Suite ● Valid driver's license
Preferred:
● Program management experience
● Experience with or willingness to learn GIS/mapping software
● Basic understanding of tree care/horticulture
● Experience managing volunteers
Work Environment and Physical Requirements
● Face-to-face and remote communication with program stakeholders, including Urban Ambassadors Board of Directors, diverse community members and leaders, city forestry staff, and corporate volunteer program managers
● Ability to work independently in an office environment
● Hands-on work performed outdoors during both warm and cold seasons ● Ability to drive a light-duty pickup truck pulling a trailer
● Capability to lift and carry up to 30 lbs
How to Apply
Email your resume to info@urbanambassadors.org with “Program Manager” in the subject line. Please include some information about why you are interested in this role in the body of your email. We will review all applications on a rolling basis.
About Urban Ambassadors
Our Mission
Actively lead the way to a more sustainable Des Moines through community engagement, tangible outcomes, and partnerships for scalability.
Our Vision
A more sustainable Des Moines that serves as an inspirational example for other cities.