Lead Floral Trainer

Southside Blooms is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that transforms vacant lots into flourishing flower farms, providing sustainable employment and empowering youth from under-resourced communities through workforce development and environmental education. We cultivate beauty, resilience, and economic opportunity—one bloom at a time.

Location:

4100 W Fillmore St., Chicago, IL 60624
Job Type: Part‑Time

Reports To:

Operations Manager

The Lead Floral Trainer will play a pivotal role in training and mentoring youth in floral design and event preparation. This position blends artistic creativity with social impact, providing hands‑on instruction in floral arranging, bouquet preparation, and floral business operations. The ideal candidate is passionate about flowers, education, and uplifting young people through meaningful work and skills training.

• Design and deliver engaging floral design workshops and hands‑on training for youth participants.
• Provide one‑on‑one mentorship and support to youth in developing floral design and work‑readiness skills.
• Model professionalism and teamwork, reinforcing workplace expectations.
• Lead the creation of floral arrangements for retail sales, special events, weddings, and community installations.
• Oversee quality control to ensure all products meet Southside Blooms’ aesthetic and brand standards.
• Maintain a creative, inclusive, and efficient studio environment.
• Collaborate with the program team to align floral training with broader workforce development goals.
• Provide input on curriculum development and training materials.
• Assist in tracking youth progress, attendance, and performance metrics.
• Support event set‑up and breakdown when needed.

• 3+ years of experience in floral design, event floral production, or related fields.
• Demonstrated ability to teach or mentor youth or young adults.
• Strong organizational and communication skills.
• Passion for community development and social impact.
• Preferred:
  Experience working with youth from under‑resourced communities.
• Preferred:
  Knowledge of sustainable or locally sourced floral practices.

• Must be able to lift up to 30 pounds and work in both indoor studio and outdoor farm settings.
• Flexible schedule including some evenings and weekends for events.
• A valid driver’s license is preferred for flower/event delivery.

At Southside Blooms, you’re not just arranging flowers—you’re building futures. Join a creative, mission‑driven team dedicated to transforming lives and landscapes through beauty, sustainability, and purpose.