Senior Apprentice

For young professionals ages 18-30

Time: Part Time, Seasonal, 20-30 hrs / week

Program Dates: May 15th - August 31st, start and end dates flexible

Location: Twin Cities, MN #LI-Onsite

Deadline to apply: Rolling Applications

About Spark-Y:

Spark-Y is an award-winning youth empowerment nonprofit serving over 13,000 youth in the Twin Cities, and beyond, since 2009. We provide access and opportunity to youth through hands-on education, projects, and employment that encourage personal and professional development, as well as collective care for our communities and environment. Learn more at Spark-Y.org

Job Description:

Are you a driven, experienced professional looking to make a significant impact in a mission-driven organization? Do you have a passion for sustainability, education, and empowering the next generation?

As a Senior Apprentice at Spark-Y, you will play a crucial role in advancing our mission by taking on staff-adjacent responsibilities and demonstrating a high level of leadership and expertise. You'll work closely with our team to develop and implement innovative programs, mentor junior apprentices and interns, and contribute to strategic initiatives that drive our organization forward. This role offers a unique opportunity to showcase your skills, grow professionally, and pave the way for potential advancement within Spark-Y.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Collaborate with staff to design and execute high-impact sustainability projects and educational programs

  • Provide technical expertise and thought leadership in areas such as urban agriculture, aquaponics, renewable energy, and community engagement

  • Mentor and guide junior apprentices and interns, fostering their growth and skill development

  • Assist in developing and delivering compelling grant proposals, impact reports, and marketing materials

  • Represent Spark-Y at community events, workshops, and conferences

  • Contribute to program evaluation, data analysis, and continuous improvement efforts

  • Support the cultivation of strategic partnerships and fundraising initiatives

  • Participate in professional development opportunities and training to stay at the forefront of industry trends and best practices

Eligibility:

  • 18-30 years of age

  • Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience in a relevant field (e.g., sustainability, education, nonprofit management)

  • Leadership experience and ability to mentor others

  • Project management and problem-solving abilities

  • Passion for sustainability, education, and youth empowerment

Compensation & Benefits:

  • $500 stipend upon training completion; $15/hour thereafter; additional $1,000 stipend awarded upon satisfactory program completion  

  • Opportunities for advancement upon satisfactory completion of the program

  • Professional references and other outplacement and networking support

  • Metro Transit pass available upon request

  • Mileage reimbursement for qualifying work-related travel

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