Job: Part-Time Farm Manager, Michigan

Job: Farm Manager at Song and Spirit Institute for Peace, 2013 The Neighborhood Garden Coalition is seeking a part-time farm manager to further develop and manage a community garden located at Song and Spirit Institute for Peace in Berkley, Michigan. This will be an educational and production garden inclusive of people with physical and developmental disabilities working with those of all abilities. Song and Spirit is a non-sectarian religious organization that promotes greater understanding among people of diverse religious, cultural and ethnic backgrounds through music, art and gardening. For details about the position and how to apply click “read more”

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At the center of the project is a small-scale organic farm and education center using best practices for intensive vegetable production. We feel it important to use the purposeful learning experience that farming can provide from preparing soil and planting to harvesting and marketing. The other piece of the project is to provide programs where people with disabilities can participate. When people with disabilities come together working in a diverse community, the result is that both groups benefit and can help each other achieve healthy, productive lives. This means people with developmental disabilities feel included, by having the same opportunities to share their gifts, talents, friendships, opinions etc., and are able to make friends and network in their community with people with and without disabilities.

The Song and Spirit Institute will be expanding the current community garden into a farm and educational center. The program is fully supported with a team of professional educators and interns.  Participants will share food that is grown with the balance being sold to support the farm. To the best of our knowledge, this will be the most comprehensive community garden and program for people with disabilities in the State.

Responsibilities and Duties:

• Prepare crop plans
• Managing the planting sowing, harvesting and distribution of products from the garden
• General garden maintenance including weeding, soil management, composting, tool care, pest and disease control
• Record keeping
• Coordination of education program, interns, and volunteers
• Weekly review with NGC representative
• Participate in program analysis and planning to meet long-term goals

Qualifications:

• At least two years education in horticulture, agriculture, or other natural science.
• Farming experience, preferably at an organic or chemical free farm
• 20 years of age or older
• Should be able to demonstrate ability to work with diverse groups of people, have good communication and organizational skills
• An interest in social justice and community building around food
• The ability to work independently, and as part of a team
• MS Office proficient and familiar with social media
• Must have reliable transportation and phone

Compensation:

This is a part-time seasonal position working from mid April through the end of September. The time period can be flexible based on applicant’s requirements. Hours of work will be 30 hours a week 3 or 4 days a week as necessary for approximately 20 weeks. Room with kitchen privileges can be available. A weekly salary of $300 is offered to qualified candidates. Expenses directly associated with the project will be reimbursed such as gas, materials and supplies.

Please email your resume and cover letter including references to:

Jim Greenwood, President

The Neighborhood Garden Coalition

Email: jimg3641@gmail.com