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Sustainable Landscapes Apprentice

Spark-Y Youth Action Labs
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Sustainable Landscapes Apprentice 

Time: Seasonal, 20-32 hrs / week

Program Dates: June 1 - August 31, start and end dates flexible 
Location: Twin Cities, MN

Deadline to apply: Rolling Applications

About Spark-Y:

Spark-Y is a youth empowerment nonprofit that provides access and opportunity to youth through hands-on education, projects, and employment rooted in sustainability and entrepreneurship. Since 2013, over 13,000 youth have participated in our award-winning programs, sparking personal and professional development, and collective care for the Earth we all share. Learn more at Spark-Y.org

 

JOB DESCRIPTION:

Are you passionate about environmental stewardship and interested in meaningful outdoor work? As a Sustainable Landscapes Apprentice, you will support hands-on projects that improve native habitat, strengthen urban forestry, and protect water quality in Minneapolis communities.

Working alongside Spark-Y staff and crew members, you will help maintain native gardens, support rain garden projects, and assist with tree care and landscape improvement activities. This role is ideal for someone who enjoys working outdoors, wants to build practical skills in sustainability and habitat restoration, and is excited to grow through structured mentorship and career development.   This position reports to our Sustainable Projects Manager.

 

RESPONSIBILITIES:

Field Work & Habitat Maintenance

  • Maintain native gardens through invasive plant removal, trash cleanup, watering, and replanting.
  • Assist with rain garden design support, plant selection, and garden health assessment.
  • Perform tree planting, pruning, and establishment tasks as assigned.

Training & Professional Growth

  • Participate in 5-10 hours per week of training and independent learning in native landscaping, habitat maintenance, forestry, and career development.
  • Build workplace skills through mentorship, teamwork, and hands-on project experience.

Program & Organizational Support

  • Travel to project sites throughout Minneapolis as needed for field work.
  • Assist with other organizational duties, based on interest and program. needs, such as project management, youth education support, volunteer engagement, development, social media, or facilities support.

ESSENTIAL EXPERIENCE:

  • Must be at least 18 years old
  • Ability to lift up to 50 pounds
  • Ability to work outdoors in a variety of weather conditions

NON-ESSENTIAL EXPERIENCE:

  • Basic knowledge of Minnesota native and invasive plants
  • Garden care experience
  • Familiarity with power tools such as weed trimmers
  • Valid driver's license

COMPENSATION & BENEFITS:

  • $18/hour
  • Spark-Y Native Landscaping certification opportunities
  • Mileage reimbursement ($0.30/mile) for qualified work-related travel
  • Professional references and networking support for career advancement

Equal Employment Opportunity

Spark-Y is committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship, marital status, disability, gender identity or expression, or veteran status. Spark-Y is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace.