CSA Grower, Seasonal

DENVER BOTANIC GARDENS INC

2d • Onsite

About The Position

Under general direction of the Associate Director of Farm Programs and CSA Manager, and direct supervision from the CSA Assistant Manager, this position will assist in growing various mixed vegetable crops with organic management methods.

Chatfield Farms CSA is a 7-acre vegetable farm located at the Denver Botanic Gardens Chatfield Farms in Littleton, Colorado that uses only organic growing methods. During the growing season, the farm crew harvests approximately 350 vegetable shares each week and directly distributes the produce to members. Seasonal staff will assist in all aspects of day-to-day farm activities.

The Chatfield Farms CSA Program is hiring a seasonal farm crew to assist in the production of organic vegetables for up to 6 months. Selected crew members will work April-September. The rest of the crew members will work May-October.

This is a full-time (40 hours) seasonal position during peak season (May-October). Normal working hours are 7a.m. to 3:30p.m. Monday through Friday. Hours are subject to change during early spring and late fall, or in the case of inclement weather. This position is a seasonal (up to 6 months) hourly position without benefits.

The farm is located at Denver Botanic Garden Chatfield Farms in Littleton, CO.

Requirements

• Must be able to stand or work on your feet for an 8-hour shift.
• Knowledge of hand tools, lawn and garden equipment, and small mechanical machines desired.
• Must be able to perform physical labor tasks including but not limited to standing, kneeling, lifting up to 50 pounds, walking, and generally using one’s body throughout the day.
• Must be comfortable with changing environmental conditions, wildlife and pests, and exposure to the elements throughout the growing season.
• Must enjoy working outside. Having an interest or passion for farming, community engagement, education, and food systems work is ideal for the position.
• Must desire to learn new farming techniques with attention to detail and a strong work ethic.
• Must be adaptable to a fast-paced, schedule driven farm environment. This includes prompt attendance and the ability to transition from one task to the next.
• Must be able to commit to a full season (up to 6 months)
• Must have proven excellent customer service, interpersonal, and communication skills in dealing with the public.
• Ability to maintain stability under pressure and able to deal well with stressful situations.
• Ability to be flexible and willing to modify plans when necessary, throughout the day.
• Ability to work a flexible schedule, including evenings, weekends and/or holidays.
• Knowledge of Microsoft Suite products, specifically Word, Excel and Outlook and Teams.
• Ability to work overtime as necessary.
• Must be a positive representative of the Gardens both internally and externally at all times.
• Must work with respect and cooperation at all times with fellow employees and the public.
• Must be committed to working safely at all times.
• High school diploma / GED and/or combination of education and equivalent experience is required.

Nice To Haves

• Previous farming experience is not necessary but desired.
• Previous experience in hands-on farming or physical related jobs desired.

Responsibilities

• Assists in all aspects of day-to-day farm activities including but not limited to cultivating, transplanting, harvesting, and post-harvest packing and processing.
• Assists in weed management and landscaping including but not limited to small machine work, mechanical and hand weeding, mowing, and weed whacking.
• Must be able to work full time onsite for 6 months during the growing season.
• Maintains satisfactory working relationships with managers, co-workers, volunteers, and the public.
• Maintains a positive, helpful, and solution-oriented demeanor when responding to or serving members and visitors.
• Ensures quality, timeliness, and accuracy in all aspects of farm work. This includes prompt attendance and the ability to transition from one task to the next.
• Assists with staffing seasonal public events such as Lavender Festival, Hops Festival, or Pumpkin Festival as required by leadership.
• Regular attendance at the worksite may be required. As with all positions at Denver Botanic Gardens, the incumbent must be in good performance standing to be eligible for remote work. Remote work is at the discretion of management at all times.
• All Gardens employees must be committed to the mission of connecting people with plants, especially plants from the Rocky Mountain region and similar regions around the world, providing delight and enlightenment to everyone.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED