Organic and Sustainable Agriculture Internships and Job Listings
Starting end of month through June 30, 2019
Hourly for ~10 weeks (20 hrs./week), $12/hr.
Duties:
Compile information on scope of organic production in Georgia
Literature search current relevant production information
Assist with information gathering from stakeholders and growers on organic needs in Georgia
Compile results from the three month planning phase into a white paper
Contact:
Dr. Elizabeth Little, Department of Plant Pathology, elittle@uga.edu
Finch Creek Farm is a small 7 acre Certified Naturally Grown vegetable farm in Barrow County. Produce is grown year round and sold primarily to high end restaurants in Athens and Atlanta.
We are looking for 2 part time laborers with a strong interest in farm to table produce agriculture. Candidates should have a track record of hard work, self-initiative, and attention to detail.
Pay starts at $10/hr, with potential for higher pay or full-time work for the right candidate.
Please email Farmer Cass Fraunfelder at cfraunfelder9@hotmail.com
Interested candidates should attach a resume or a brief statement outlining work experience.
Candidates are also requested to provide a statement expressing the nature of their interest in applying for this position.
Finch Creek Farm
1420 Finch Rd
Winder, GA
Somali Bantu Community Association of Maine is hiring!
Organization Description:
The mission of the Somali Bantu Community Association (SBCA) is to provide vital transitional services, advocacy, and programming that empowers members of the refugee community to uphold cultural identity and thrive in their new life here in Lewiston/Auburn, Maine.
The main programmatic undertaking of the SBCA is the community farming program, Liberation Farms. It aims is to provide new American farmers access to, and culturally-appropriate resources for, the means of sustainable food production for themselves and their communities to bolster food and economic security. The program assists over 140 Somali Bantu farmers by providing access to land, seeds, trainings, technical assistance, and marketing. To learn more, please visit http://www.somalibantumaine.org.
Position:
The Farm Operations Manager & Educator is responsible for overall farm management and stewardship of SBCA farms, as well as training and collaborating with Farm Managers to ensure successful implementation of the farming program. During the growing season, the position will rotate as needed between the Lewiston and Auburn farms, the wash station, and cold storage site. In the off-season, the Farm Operations Manager & Educator may work remotely or from the SBCA office in Lewiston. Experience working with diverse populations, participatory adult education, and experience managing diversified vegetable farms are necessary prerequisites for this position.
Start date: Immediate
Supervision Received: Executive Director & Markets Manager
Partners with: Farm Managers
Essential Duties & Responsibilities
Training & Education (40%)
Work one-on-one to provide support and training to the two Farm Managers, who will pass on that knowledge to farmers in the program. This includes, but is not limited to, technical assistance in areas of farm production and operations.
Conduct listening sessions to determine what farmers are interested in learning and what ways they learn best.
Work with, and offer training to, Farm Managers to ensure whole farm field and crop rotations.
Provide support to farmer participants growing on the site as requested.
Farm Management (40%)
Provide overall support to a diverse team of people working to keep daily farm operations running smoothly. Help determine work plans, project goals and deadlines.
Support whole farm system management by coordinating with Farm Managers in overseeing pre-season preparation, tilling, soil nutrient management, crop planning, opening new fields, planting, and irrigation design and setup, and postseason cleanup.
Work closely with Farm Managers and Markets Manager to develop seedling production and planting plans.
Develop short-term and long-term soil fertility plans and work collaboratively with participating farmers and stakeholders to design, finalize, and implement plans.
Organize and manage building projects such as wash & pack infrastructure, cold storage, and winter storage. Oversee infrastructure maintenance and repair as needed.
Develop, oversee, and monitor farm budget (annual and capital expenses).
Other Duties & Responsibilities (20%)
Organize and lead SBCA’s farmland site search with support from partners.
Maintain communication and positive working relationships with SBCA’s farmland landlords and other service providers such as Land for Good, Cooperative Extension, NRCS, etc.
Attend relevant workshops, training, and conferences. Review professional materials and literature.
Ability and willingness to drive to multiple farm sites and delivery locations.
Performing other project-related duties as required.
Qualifications & Experience
Minimum 3 years’ experience with production-scale diversified vegetable farming, preferably with experience in all aspects of farm planning.
Experience working, or training in cross-cultural environments and/or experience with participatory adult education.
Experience providing services and support to minority and disenfranchised communities.
Experience working with ESOLs and preliterate/limited literacy people.
Direct experience developing and managing complex on-the-ground farming operations.
Detail oriented and able to track farming practices and field records as well as project expenses.
Past experience tracking and managing farm budgets.
Excellent written, oral, and intercultural communication skills.
Reliable transportation, cell phone, and valid driver’s license. Employees are expected to use their own vehicle and personal cell phone for work.
Compensation:
$18 per hour. This is a non-exempt, full-time, year round position.
To apply:
Please email a résumé, brief cover letter explaining your interest and experience in farming, education, and working with diverse populations, and three references to Kristina Kalolo at kristina@somalibantumaine.org. Please combine all documents into one PDF application.
The application is open until filled. Application review and interviews are scheduled as applications are received.
This advanced training program is specifically designed for recent graduates and emerging conservation professionals, seeking direct experience and practical skills to enhance credentials and assist in career advancement opportunities.
The Environmental Professionals Program provides specialized knowledge in conservation of natural resources, landscape management and horticulture through training alongside Arboretum staff. Participants gain the skills necessary for conducting ecosystem restoration, invasive species control, plant propagation, wildlife monitoring and presenting educational programs, while networking with fellow conservation professionals in the field.
Opportunities:
Restore wetlands, woodlands, streams, farmland and prairie ecosystems
Learn adaptive management using GIS applications, photo point documentation and other field research methods
Advance skill development in greenhouse operation, botanical research, seed collection and cleaning, proper planting, pruning and aftercare, herbarium mounting, collections records and database management
Learn plant identification and invasive species management techniques
Conduct biodiversity surveys and vegetation monitoring protocols
Monitor wildlife & assist with nesting structure maintenance
Present educational programs on project outcomes
Engage volunteers and organize events
Qualifications:
Degree in Ecology, Horticulture, Botany, Natural Resources, Wildlife Management or related field
Good organizational skills and computer proficiency (Windows, Word, Excel, etc.)
Self-motivated, willing to learn and eager to apply newly acquired skills
Independent decision making and problem solving ability
Desire to work outside at any time of year
Adherence to all standard operating procedures and safety protocols
Able to work a flexible schedule including some evenings, weekends and holidays
Able to maintain professional, positive interactions and communicate effectively in person and in writing
Possession of a valid Ohio motor vehicle operator’s license and a good driving record required
Successful completion of pre-start background check
Compensation: The Dawes Arboretum provides on-site housing, all utilities, off-site training registration fees and optional licensure as compensation to participants (equivalent $2,000).*
Upon successful completion of the program, participants receive an Arboretum issued certificate of completion and if applicable, letters of recommendation. Resident training is provided at no cost to participants.
How to Apply: Positions are awarded on a competitive basis. Cover letter, resume and 2 letters of reference can be sent to: Shana Byrd, Director of Land Conservation, The Dawes Arboretum, 7770 Jacksontown Road, Newark, OH 43056; email sbyrd@dawesarb.org
The deadlines for applications: May 1, 2019 (for Summer/Fall term)
Professional Training Program Opportunities & Career Skills Offered:
Advanced botany and vegetation monitoring techniques
Herbarium vouchering and collections
Native plant propagation, collection, pruning and care
Sustainable landscaping and design
Invasive species management
Project design and reporting
Plot delineation and photo point documentation
Arc GIS software applications, plant accessioning and map making
Grant writing, project management and budgeting
Reforestation techniques
Butterfly monitoring protocols
Monarch rearing and tagging methods
Forest management
Hiking trail mapping and maintenance
Stream conservation and stewardship
Pond and wetland management
Sustainable agriculture practices, soil testing and erosion control methods
Wildlife nesting structure installation and maintenance
Prairie establishment
Prescribed fire management
Bird monitoring protocols
Research plot establishment and maintenance
Wildlife management and nuisance trapping
Professional Development:
Licensure as Commercial Herbicide Applicator (Reynoldsburg, OH)*
Ohio Invasive Plant Council Workshop (Columbus, OH)*
Long-term Butterfly Monitoring (Newark, OH)*
Buckeye Trail Association – Trail Adopter Training (Southeastern Ohio)*
Rural Action Sustainable Agriculture & Forestry Programming (Southeast Ohio)*
Society for Ecological Restoration Recent Grad. Membership (Great Lakes Region)*
Ohio Wetland Association Event (Central, OH)*
Send General Employment Inquiries to:
Contact: Shirley Drake | 740.323.2355 or 800.44.DAWES | smdrake@dawesarb.org | 7770 Jacksontown Rd. Newark, OH 43056
Posting Number: G/R01449P
UGArden Assistant Farm Manager
UGArden Student Community Farm (https://ugarden.uga.edu/)
Department CAES Horticulture
Monday-Friday, 8am-5pm during the academic school year.
Monday-Friday, 7am-4pm with occasional weekend work during the summer.
Advertised Salary: $27,000.00
Anticipated Start Date: 05/01/2019
Posting Date: 03/15/2019
Closing Date: 04/15/2019
Note: This is a grant-funded position for a two-year period. Employment beyond that time period is subject to availability of funding.
Location of Vacancy: UGArden Student Community Farm, Athens Area
Position Information
Minimum Qualifications should list both the minimum degree and the field which the degree must be earned. If prior work experience is required, the posting should list both the job in which the experience must be gained, and the minimum duration that will be accepted.
Minimum Qualifications
Position Summary
This position will assist the UGArden Farm Manger with managing an organic student farm; assist with supervising student interns and volunteers in carrying out daily farm work; operate and maintain typical farm equipment; support educational and outreach efforts of the farm.
Relevant/Preferred Education, Experience, Licensure, Certification in Position
BS Degree in Horticulture, Agriculture or related field of study; farm or outdoor work experience; intermediate knowledge of crop production practices; experience supervising volunteers, students or workers.
Knowledge, Skills, Abilities and/or Competencies
Physical Demands
The physical environment is working both inside and outside in heat/cold, wet/humid, and dry/arid conditions; operating farm equipment and using personal protective equipment to prevent exposure to hazardous materials.
For questions, email UGArden Farm Manager, Johannah Biang (jb1410@uga.edu)
Compost Facility Operator
Salary Range $31,200 – $56,545; Anticipated Hiring Range $42,000 – $45,000
Work Schedule M-F 7 am – 3:45 pm
Job City & State Raleigh, NC
Essential Job Duties
NC State is pleased to be opening a food waste Compost Facility that will process campus-generated organic waste, and create a closed-loop organic waste management system. This fulfills a tactic of the University’s Sustainability Strategic Plan. NC State currently has a robust organic waste diversion program, and this new facility will bring processing in-house. The primary purpose of the Compost Facility Operator position is to provide the skilled operation of the Compost Facility in order to process organic waste into a high-quality compost product. Work with this organic waste management system involves receiving and managing feedstocks, processing and managing of compost using the aerated static pile system, developing soil amendment products, site maintenance, as well as data collection and record keeping. Compost system vendor will provide operator with detailed onsite training for the aerated static pile system operation and maintenance, as well as recipe development. Operator will possess a thorough understanding of the composting process, including feedstock and recipe development. Will adapt and create new recipes based on the type of available feedstocks. Must be able to analyze data and results to improve process and performance of the system. Employee will continuously research opportunities for improvement and keep updated on industry best practices, technology developments, developing trends and laws to recommend and implement advancements at the Facility. Employee will be required to maintain the facility in compliance with the rules and regulations set by the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality (Section .1400 North Carolina Solid Waste Compost Rules) and all other applicable State, Federal, and University regulations. Employee will attend the US Composting Council’s five day Compost Operations Training Course in September, 2019 to receive further training for running a successful compost facility.
Employee will operate and/or drive a variety of equipment and vehicles necessary to complete tasks in the safest and most efficient manner. Standard equipment or vehicles include, but are not limited to; skid steer loaders, agricultural tractors, attachments, and equipment, forklifts, compost mixer/grinder, screener, pickup trucks, trailers, and backhoes. Perform daily equipment and vehicle inspections and complete inspection forms. Perform immediate maintenance needs such as adding fluids and changing filters, adjusting tire pressure or replacing lights. Troubleshoot equipment and vehicles that may need immediate or future repairs. Coordinate and communicate with WRR Equipment Services Supervisor to identify and resolve maintenance, repair, and safety concerns related to vehicles and equipment.
Work also involves developing and maintaining productive, collaborative work relationships while assessing and responding to client needs. Employee may work with student interns, provide information to professors for research, and participate in tours of the site. The responsibility of safely operating the Facility requires close attention to detail, dependability, accountability, accuracy, strong organizational skills, and the ability to work independently.
Other Work/Responsibilities
Perform critical role and essential role duties as assigned, may be required to work at any time and any day, during all weather conditions with exposure to noise, odor, and solid waste. Must be available for emergency situations that may require working odd shifts or split shifts. All of the above activities may require overtime work. The normally scheduled work hours are Monday through Friday, 7:00am to 3:45pm.
Minimum Experience/Education
Bachelor’s degree; or an equivalent combination of training and experience.
All degrees must be received from appropriately accredited institutions.
Departmental Required Skills
Must be able to communicate effectively verbally with supervisors and the general public, as well as understand verbal and written instructions and other communications regarding work assignments and other matters.
Position serves in a mandatory role and employee must work during adverse weather conditions and may be required to work even if the University is closed to normal operations.
Perform all work assignments and duties in compliance with established safe work practices. Follow safety and health regulations, policies, and procedures. Identifies and resolves potential safety concerns, work practices or violations.
Dependability and ability to strictly limit unscheduled absences for self are essential in this position.
Ability to work independently and efficiently.
Must be able to use hand tools necessary to perform repairs and maintenance.
Smart phone and computer skills, including proficiency with email, Microsoft Excel, Microsoft Word, and Google Drive.
Must be able to lift 60 pounds occasionally, with or without a reasonable accommodation.
Must be able to work in all weather conditions, including heat, cold, sunshine, rain, and snow.
Preferred Experience, Skills, Training/Education
Three to five years of experience in operating vehicles, skid steers, agricultural tractors and equipment.
Knowledge or training in compost site operation and the composting process
Knowledge of soil physical and chemical properties.
Mechanical knowledge.
At least a two-year degree in one of the following: agriculture, soil science, crop science, horticulture, natural resources, environmental sciences, or a similar field or the equivalent amount of experience.
Required License or Certification : Valid Drivers License required.
Valid NC Drivers License within 60 days of hire and must be maintained
Job Open Date 03/15/2019
Proposed Hire Date 04/01/2019
Alternate Option
If no applicants apply who meet the required competency level and training & experience requirements, then management may consider other applicants. Salary would be determined based on competencies, equity, budget, and market considerations.
For more information: https://jobs.ncsu.edu/postings/114688
The Southern Foodways Alliance seeks applications for our third annual Summer Documentary Film Internship to encourage and nurture emerging documentary filmmakers. For two months this summer, two paid interns will work directly under the guidance and mentorship of SFA’s Pihakis Foodways Documentary Filmmaker, Ava Lowrey. Mountain Valley Spring Water generously underwrites these internships.
In addition to hands on learning through pre- and post-production assistance on current projects, the interns will also be assigned individual film projects that they will direct and edit with producers Ava Lowrey and John T. Edge. These final projects are expected to be 5-8 minutes in length. Filming and editing equipment, as well as training from Lowrey, will be provided.
The Southern Foodways Alliance documents, studies, and explores the diverse food cultures of the changing American South. A member-supported institute based at the University of Mississippi’s Center for the Study of Southern Culture, we collect oral histories, produce films and podcasts, publish great writing, sponsor scholarship, mentor students, and stage events that serve as progressive and inclusive catalysts for the greater South.
The internship will run June 3—July 31, 2019 in Oxford, Mississippi. The selected interns will be expected to work on average 20 hours per week and will be provided a $6000 stipend payable in 3 installments, at the beginning, middle and end of the internship. Applicants may find examples of SFA work online at southernfoodways.org.
Interested applicants should send a cover letter, CV, and portfolio of any previous work to ava@southernfoodways.org by April 1, 2019.
