Seasonal Farm Assistant Job in Maryland

Job Opening: Seasonal Farm Assistant in Maryland - Close Date: February 13, 2015

 About the Accokeek Foundation: The Accokeek Foundation is a non-profit, educational organization whose mission is to connect people to history, agriculture, and nature through innovative educational programs and engaging visitor experiences. Founded over fifty years ago to “preserve the view” from George Washington’s Mount Vernon, the Foundation was one of the first land trusts, blazing new trails in preservation through a public/private partnership that led to the creation of Piscataway Park, a nearly 5000-acre national park. Through a cooperative agreement with the National Park Service, the Foundation cares for two hundred acres of the park, while fulfilling its mission. This working landscape includes the National Colonial Farm (demonstrates life of a tobacco planter on the eve of the American Revolution) the Ecosystem Farm (demonstrates sustainable agriculture on an 8-acre organic vegetable farm), heritage breed livestock, nature trails, gardens, a fishing pier, and boat dock (with kayak launch). In addition, this is the sacred homeland of the Piscataway people, and its significance as an indigenous cultural landscape makes it a key site on several national trails. Position Overview – Seasonal Farm Assistant: The Accokeek Foundation is seeking a Seasonal Farm Assistant which a passion and commitment to stewardship and sustainability to join the Ecosystem Farm crew for the 2015 season.

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Primary responsibilities will include assisting the farm manager with:

• Reconfiguring high tunnels;
• Building a seedling and tree nursery;
• Implementing the crop plan;
• Keeping good records for maintaining the farm’s organic certification;
• Organizing and working with volunteers;
• Set-up and operation of farm-market stands;
• General site organization and tidiness.

 Professional Experience and Qualifications

This position is ideal for a candidate looking to gain additional skills and valuable experience in sustainable agriculture. Candidates with a minimum of 2 years of relevant experience are encouraged to apply. Additional qualifications include:

• Growing annual crops for market and/or working at a farmer’s market;
• Trained in botany, construction, ecosystem restoration, permaculture design or similar field;
• Good communication, interpersonal, and computer skills;
• Detail oriented and fast paced;
• Capable of leading group activities;
• Have some experience using small to medium size machinery;
• Be fit, hearty and prepared to work in most weather conditions;
• Interested in farming professionally;
• Have a valid driver’s license, reliable transportation and a good driving record;
• Available a minimum of 4 months during the growing season; preference given to candidates available for the full season (March – November).

Compensation and Benefits

This is a part-time, seasonal position that pays $10/hour. Candidates must be available 25-35 hours per week, March through November. Weekend and mid-week hours will be required.

To apply: Send a resume and cover letter describing how your experience, skills, and interests make you uniquely qualified for this position by email with the subject line “Seasonal Farm Assistant” to info@accokeek.org, or by mail to: Accokeek Foundation c/o Seasonal Farm Assistant, 3400 Bryan Point Road, Accokeek, MD 20607.