Urban Agriculture Specialist
Part-time: Maximum 20 hours per week
Start Date: Immediately
This is a part-time grant funded position (max 20 hours per week). Initial 3-month contract with the opportunity to extend.
Who We Are:
Acres4Change (A4C) is a response to the growing racial wealth gap in the US. Our pilot program, in Baltimore MD, creates a path to land ownership for BIPOC farmers through a two-year mushroom business and mentoring program. Qualifying individuals have an opportunity to generate income, gain business skills, and create generational wealth.
What We Seek:
We are looking for a talented and passionate individual who can run our small vegetable farm, mushroom operation, and training program. The part-time independent contractor will join a diverse team of highly committed and driven Stewards, Board Members and Volunteers. We’re in search of someone who is mission-driven with strong core values. This position requires personal and professional maturity, creativity, attention to detail, and a commitment to the vision and mission of Acres4Change. An ideal candidate will be excited to join a start-up organization and contribute to its success.
Responsibilities:
Ethnic Crop Garden project: With the assistance of Stewards, interns, and volunteers-
– maintain and oversee daily gardening tasks such as planting, harvesting, weeding, pest control, record keeping and distribution of food
– maintain drip-irrigation system
– coordinate purchase and storage of farm supplies and equipment
Small Mushroom Farm Operation: With the assistance of Stewards, interns, and volunteers
– monitor and maintain the optimal environmental conditions for mushroom growth, including temperature, humidity, and ventilation
– manage the fruiting and harvesting process
– ensure a clean and sterile working environment to prevent contamination
– identifying and addressing any pests or diseases that may affect mushroom crops
-keep detailed records of environmental conditions, growth stages, and yields
– maintain and repair equipment used in cultivation, such as fans, heaters, and sterilization units
– ensure compliance with food safety regulations and guidelines
– promote safe working practices and maintain a safe work environment
-manage inventory levels of supplies, substrates, and equipment
– order and restock materials as needed
Administrative and grant related tasks
-keep good records and submit information for the annual grant report surveys/documents
Plan/co-Facilitate up to 3 workshops
– coordinate and schedule guest lecturers for both onsite and virtual presentations and workshops
Supervise Stewards, interns, and volunteers
– recruit, train, and supervise volunteers
– plan and supervise Steward, intern, and volunteer work shifts
– incorporate hands-on lessons for Stewards and interns as outlined in the farm education plan
– conduct 1:1 check-ins, ensure that Stewards are completing program requirements and managing time commitments
Qualifications/Competencies:
● Degree in related field or Farm training certificate
● 3 years’ experience running farm training programs
● Excellent verbal and written communication skills
● Demonstrated collaboration skills
● Strong organizational skills– attention to detail, time management etc.
● Desire to be part of a start-up organization
● Cultural competency and a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion
● A team player with a positive attitude
How to apply: Email résumé and cover letter to pertula@acres4change.org
Application Deadline: Friday, September 15, 2023
Category:
Jobs, Internships & Opportunities
Region:
Baltimore & Central Maryland
Address:
125 N Hilton St.
Baltimore, Maryland 21229
Contact Name:
Pertula George-Redd
Contact Email:
pertula@acres4change.org
Date Posted:
09/11/2023