College of Menominee Nation Hires Food Systems Coordinator, Prioritizes Enrolled Applicants

The College of Menominee Nation posted a staff job opening for a Food Systems Coordinator and closed applications on Monday, December 22, 2025 at 4 00 PM. The posting, aimed specifically at enrolled Menominee applicants, outlined responsibilities that tied directly to community food production and access. Those responsibilities included operating Flex Farm systems, supporting aquaponics projects, coordinating farmers market activities and community produce giveaways, and delivering community education.

The position’s stated minimum qualifications emphasized practical experience and cultural knowledge. An associate degree was preferred, and candidates with experience in hydroponics or aquaponics, traditional foods and gardening were encouraged to apply. The job description also specified the ability to work with youth and elders, listed expected work hours and physical demands, and required applicants to submit particular materials by the deadline. The full description and a PDF download were available on the college careers page.

For residents of Keshena, Neopit and Zoar this posting represented more than a job. The role would have supported local food sovereignty by maintaining and expanding production systems that supply fresh produce to markets and community giveaways. Public health experts note that increased local access to fresh fruits and vegetables can reduce diet related disease and strengthen community resilience, particularly in rural tribal communities that face higher rates of chronic illness and greater barriers to grocery access.

The emphasis on community education and intergenerational engagement also addressed social equity concerns. Training youth and working with elders to preserve traditional foods contributes to cultural continuity while building workforce skills in sustainable agriculture and aquaculture. At the same time the enrollment requirement reflects tribal employment priorities that aim to direct opportunities to members of the Menominee community.

Although this application window is now closed, the posting signals an institutional commitment to investing in local food systems and workforce development. Residents interested in similar work should monitor the college careers page for future openings and consider reaching out to local community programs to learn about volunteer and training opportunities that support garden networks, markets and aquaponics initiatives.