Hmong Health and Wellness Coordinator (2 openings)

Title: Hmong Health and Wellness Coordinator (2 openings)

Appointment: Casual (up to 14 hours/week), Temporary; ends December 2026

Job Code: 0001, Non-Exempt Temporary or Casual

Pay Range: $30-$35/hour; depending on education/qualifications/experience

Office Location: Prairie Seeds Academy in Brooklyn Park, MN (primary)

Extension Area: Department of Family, Health and Wellbeing

Apply By: February 20, 2026

Noj Qab Nyob Zoo: Nurturing Hmong Roots for Generational Growth is a grant-funded project ending December 2026 that applies Policy, Systems, and Environmental (PSE) approaches to support culturally grounded agricultural and nutrition learning for Hmong youth at Prairie Seeds Academy (PSA). The program integrates traditional Hmong farming practices, foodways, and nutrition education with science-based agriculture to strengthen food access, dietary quality, and youth connection to land.

In partnership with Prairie Seeds Academy and local farmers, the Hmong Health and Wellness Coordinators will lead the planning, coordination, and implementation of project activities, including a six-week hands-on agricultural and nutritional learning program. These Coordinators are responsible for developing and maintaining school-based growing infrastructures such as garden beds and a greenhouse and delivering experiential, culturally responsive education. This role works closely with farmers, PSA educators, community partners, and Hmong cultural knowledge holders to ensure programming is engaging, culturally relevant, and aligned with educational goals.

Location, Schedule, Hours, & Travel

These positions will be based primarily at the Prairie Seeds Academy in Brooklyn Park, MN. During Spring programming (April-June 2026) there is a required schedule of 8:00-10:00 a.m., on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. During September through December, the role will emphasize program evaluation and curriculum development support. Additional hours, up to 165 hours total through December 2026, are flexible with seasonal variability. Local travel will be needed.

• Coordinate the development of the school-based gardening and growing environment, including installation of garden beds and a greenhouse
• Plan and oversee seasonal planting, maintenance, and harvesting garden activities
• Support integration of traditional Hmong farming techniques and foodways with science-based agriculture concepts
• Apply environmental changes that support exposure to and availability of nutritious foods grown on site
• Collaborate with Prairie Seeds Academy and Farmers to support integration of garden-grown foods and nutrition concepts into school systems, such as classroom learning, enrichment programming, or summer activities
• Assist in developing shared practices or routines that support use of garden produce for educational nutrition activities (e.g., tasting activities, food demonstrations, culturally relevant recipes)

• Design and implement culturally responsive, experiential agriculture and nutrition education for Hmong youth at Prairie Seeds Academy
• Collaborate with PSA staff and farmers to deliver hands-on learning experiences rooted in Hmong agricultural knowledge, foodways, and environmental stewardship
• Coordinate agricultural education with nutrition-focused programming to ensure cohesive learning experiences
• Facilitate hands-on food preparation and tasting activities aligned with EFNEP guidance
• Support youth engagement and learning through interactive, culturally grounded programming

• Collaborate with PSA educators, Farmers, and community partners to align programming with school curriculum and student needs
• Engage and assist Hmong cultural knowledge holders and community members as appropriate to support intergenerational learning
• Participate in planning meetings, program reflections, and coordination efforts

• Track program activities, participation, and outcomes
• Assist with documentation, storytelling, and reporting as required for grants or program evaluation
• Support basic budget tracking related to gardening supplies and program materials
• Support grant evaluation and curriculum development

• Fluent in Hmong language
• Knowledge of traditional Hmong farming practices and foodways
• 1 year professional experience in the The Noj Qab Nyob Zoo project or related experience
• Experience in gardening, nutrition education, environmental education, or related fields
• 6 years related education and experience to include 2 years minimum experience working as an EFNEP or SNAP Ed Health and Wellness Coordinator in educational or community-based settings
• Strong organizational, communication, and collaboration skills
• Ability to work outdoors and perform light physical tasks related to gardening
• Experience working with grant projects.
• Valid driver's license and applicable insurance, and ability to drive to and from various locations.
• Ability to work 8:00-10:00 a.m., Tuesdays and Wednesdays during April-June 2026.

• Experience working with Hmong or other culturally specific communities
• Background in experiential or culturally responsive education
• Familiarity with school-based or community garden programs
• Experience applying Policy, Systems, and Environmental (PSE) approaches in school or community settings
• Experience with culturally specific Curriculum Development
• Experience with program evaluation and curriculum development support.

About Extension

University of Minnesota Extension is a major outreach arm of the University of Minnesota with a mission to serve the public through applied research and education. Our mission is to make a difference by connecting community needs and University resources to address critical issues in Minnesota. Extension strives to attract and retain high-quality, passionate employees, and weave diversity, equity and inclusion into all aspects of Extension's programming and employee engagement. Find further information on the Extension website.

Pay Range: $30-$35/hour; depending on education/qualifications/experience

Retirement plan options are available for Civil Service, Faculty, Labor-Represented, Professional & Administrative, and Temp Casual classifications. Learn more about retirement plans.

Applications must be submitted online. To be considered for this position, please click on the Apply button and follow the instructions. You will be given the opportunity to complete an online application for the position. Please attach the following required application materials:

• Cover letter
• Resume - Your resume must include all your education and experience as it relates to the required qualifications. The initial HR screening process focuses primarily on the resume.

Names and contact information for three professional references will be required during the interview process.

Additional documents may be attached after the application by accessing your "My Job Applications" page and uploading documents in the "My Cover Letters and Attachments" section. See full application instructions.

To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail employ@umn.edu or call (612) 624-UOHR (8647).

The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission. The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.

The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. To learn more about diversity at the U: http://diversity.umn.edu

Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment.