Ecosystem Farm Manager Job, Maryland

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Ecosystem Farm Manager Job at the Accokeek Foundation in Maryland

The Accokeek Foundation is seeking a manager of its Ecosystem Farm in Accokeek, Maryland. In partnership with the National Park Service, the Accokeek Foundation stewards a 200-acre portion of Piscataway Park to preserve the view from Mount Vernon across the Potomac River. The Accokeek Foundation blends history, ecology, economics, and conservation to teach land stewardship and sustainable use of natural resources, as well as to interpret the natural and cultural heritage of the Tidewater Potomac. The National Colonial Farm and the Ecosystem Farm demonstrate the agricultural, preservation, and conservation goals at the core of the Foundation’s mission.

Established in 1992, the Robert Ware Straus Ecosystem Farm is a project of the Accokeek Foundation’s Jean Wallace Douglas Center for Agricultural and Environmental Stewardship (CAES).

A diversified organic vegetable farm, the Ecosystem Farm’s produce is marketed through a community supported agriculture program and may also be sold at farmer’s markets and wholesale. The demonstration farm, located inside a national park, is open daily to the public. The farm hosts school groups and other tours for scholars, agriculture professionals, dignitaries, and funders, among others. The farm is also an outdoor classroom for the beginning farmer apprentice training program, which focuses on full season training for those with more than a year of farming experience.

The CAES was created to teach and inspire people to use principles and practices of sustainability in agriculture and everyday life. Building on our Beginning Farmer Apprentice program, the CAES offers workshops, field days, presentations, community forums, and guided tours covering topics ranging from sustainable agriculture to green living, environmental science, and local food. The Farm Manager is an integral part of the Accokeek Foundation’s agricultural education program.

Qualifications: Applicants should have a minimum of four years of experience in sustainable farming, at least two years of proven farm management experience, machine operation experience, and an associate degree or relevant experience. The position requires good interpersonal and communication skills, flexibility, and an appreciation for the importance of engaging the public in “celebrating the culture of agriculture.” Computer skills (e.g., Word, Excel) required. Education experience, especially with adult learners, is desired.

Reports to: Vice President/COO of the Accokeek Foundation

Supervisory Responsibility: 1-4 apprentices, plus seasonal farm help, and volunteers

Benefits: Starting salary is approximately $35,000 per year. The Accokeek Foundation provides a generous employee benefit package including health insurance, paid vacation, paid holiday and sick leave, and a retirement plan.

Please send resume and cover letter to accofound@accokeek.org.