Sustainable land & food systems, organic farming

Position: Farmer-Educator
Project: Earthwise Farm Agassiz

Location: Agassiz, Lower Mainland BC
On-site housing: Accommodation may be available.

Earthwise Society is a not-for-profit environmental education organization with demonstration projects for sustainable land use in Tsawwassen and Agassiz BC. We have an exciting opportunity at our Agassiz location for an energetic and articulate Farmer/ Educator.

Reporting to the operations manager, duties will include:

Farm

• Carry out farming operations for a two-acre teaching farm, including field prep and planting, maintenance, harvesting and post-harvest handling of crops
• Implement strategies to extend the growing season through crop selection, storage, and winter farming techniques
• Plan and carry out sales and marketing initiatives including CSA and direct sales
• Implement and update farm plan, maintain farm and sales records and invoices
• Maintain on-site composting as a component of organic soil management
• Monitor field drip irrigation systems to ensure healthy crop production

• Be responsible for safe tool and equipment use, storage and maintenance
• Ensure that the farm site is maintained as a destination learning resource to be clean, safe, and attractive to visitors

Education and outreach

• Deliver a series of experiential land-based learning programs for children and youth
• Implement hands on workshops for adults on a range of topics related to growing food and regenerative agriculture
• Assist with planning and delivery of other farm based education programs for children
• Liaise with community partners; coordinate monthly meetings of the Agassiz Harrison Food Coalition
• Lead teams of farm volunteers and implement volunteer engagement strategies to build a strong local volunteer base
• Assist with implementation of agritourism initiatives such as special events, farm store, and site tours
• Assist with community outreach, attend networking and community events to help increase engagement of local community

QUALIFICATIONS

• Post-secondary education in land and food systems, horticulture, environmental sciences or other related field
• At least one year’s experience with farming
• Knowledge of composting and organic growing practices
• Experience with the delivery of community engagement and environmental education programs
• Experience in business or not for profit management would be an asset
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills;
• Familiar with use and care of tools and equipment required on small scale farms

• Proven ability in working effectively with volunteers and/or co-workers
• Self-motivated, flexible, and work well independently and in a team environment
• Physically fit and enjoy working outside in all kinds of weather
• Strong work ethic and time management skills
• The successful candidate will be required to provide a criminal record check

TERMS

This is a full-time position, 35 hours per week, from April 20 through Nov 28 and may be extended or renewed. Weekend work will be required.

The position is in Agassiz BC. Accommodation may be available.

The wage for this position is $24-25 /hr depending on experience.

If interested, send cover letter and resume to: info@earthwisesociety.bc.ca
Subject: Farmer-Educator

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