Food systems

BASIC FUNCTION:

The City of Medford is seeking a Connector to lead initiatives aimed at strengthening food security for residents experiencing food insecurity. The role focuses on developing a more resilient and equitable food system by improving access to nutritious food, supporting local producers, and addressing root causes of food insecurity. The Connector will collaborate with community organizations, policymakers, and stakeholders to promote food justice and ensure consistent access to healthy, affordable food. This position is part of the Municipal Vulnerability Preparedness (MVP) project, which aims to understand community needs and develop a Resilience Hub. The Connector will also facilitate effective and culturally competent communication between the city and its residents.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Collaborate with municipal staff and project partners.
• Build relationships with community members facing food insecurity to understand their needs and ensure culturally appropriate programs.
• Identify policy and environmental challenges affecting food insecurity through engagement with community members and partners.
• Support city planning initiatives to align goals with the needs of those experiencing food insecurity.
• Conduct outreach to promote food assistance resources and encourage community engagement in city initiatives.
• Collaborate with local organizations and agencies to design and manage programs addressing food insecurity, such as emergency food distribution and community kitchens.
• Work with community organizations to develop a sustainable local food system, including promoting community gardens.
• Monitor food insecurity levels in the community using data to guide program development and assess effectiveness.
• Lead efforts to ensure rapid food access during crises like natural disasters or pandemics.
• Organize the Food Security Task Force to enhance food access, availability, and affordability in Medford, partnering with SNAP, pantries, and community gardens.
• Ensure all programs are inclusive and responsive to diverse community needs.
• Participate in weekly team meetings with other social resilience Connectors and staff.

Please Note: This position is NOT remote and is responsible for their own transportation and transportation costs. This position may require evening work and/or work on weekends with a minimum of 5 hours a week spent at City Hall depending on community engagement needs.

EDUCATIONAL / EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS:

Minimum Qualifications:

• High School and GED
• Three (3) years experience in community organizing and/or advocating.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Associate’s degree or Bachelor’s Degree
• Proficiency with networking, Zoom, social media, and other outreach methods.

Knowledge: (SEE JOB DESCRIPTION)

Ability: (SEE JOB DESCRIPTION)

Physical Requirement: (SEE JOB DESCRIPTION)

WORK ENVIRONMENT: (SEE JOB DESCRIPTION)

POSITION: | Medford Connector – Food Systems | #J2025 – 0074

DEPARTMENT: | Health Department - Prevention and Outreach | Posting Removal: 11/12/25

HOURS OF WORK: | Part-time (15 hours per week) Contracted until June 30, 2026

SALARY: | $30/hour (Grant Funded)

ADDRESS ALL COVER LETTERS AND RESUMES TO:

Human Resources Department

City of Medford – Room 204

85 George P. Hassett Drive

Medford, MA 02155

Or send cover letter and resume with the job title in the subject line to [email protected]

For the posting, please visit the City of Medford's website –

The City of Medford is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action/504 Employer Residents of the City of Medford, Women, People of Color, Veterans and Persons with Disabilities are encourage