Farm Assistant - Temp

TSNE•New London, CT

5d•Onsite

About The Position

FRESH New London builds momentum for food system change through local agriculture and youth empowerment. We use food to connect to the community, encourage leadership, inspire stewardship and incite change. FRESH is a fiscally sponsored organzation of Third Sector New England, Inc. (TSNE). FRESH Core Values include Environmental Stewardship, Health and Wellness, Racial and Social Justice, Our Community: Our Culture, Our People, Our Place, Our Power, Young People and the Future, and Sense of Humor and Fun! FRESH New London connects New London residents across age, race, ethnicity, income, religion and gender in order to reclaim land in New London to grow food with and for the community, inspire residents to grow food in the urban environment and model environmentally sustainable, culturally appropriate and affordable growing practices. We currently grow food on 8 locations in New London, ranging from a small 3x6 snack beds to the developing Cottage Street Farm. We are looking for someone to assist the Farm and Project Manager to manage these sites. This work includes daily farm work like seeding, watering, weeding, harvesting as well as support work for the youth crew and connecting communities programs. This is a temporary position.

Requirements

Minimum of participation of 1 full year with FRESH
Familiarity with organic growing methods is helpful, but some training will be provided
Passion for gardening, food preparation and/or local food systems
Ability to work independently, while being mindful of FRESH’s larger organizational work
Understanding of racial and social justice principles and how to apply them in FRESH settings
High level of independence and accountability
Must display a passion for food justice & social change and be willing and able to express that motivation in the context of practical farm activities
Positive attitude and energy
A growing interest in agricultural skills or community food security
Organized and able to complete work assignments in a timely manner
Ability to work independently with regular check in about tasks; ask questions when needed
Interest in developing interpersonal relationships
Working knowledge of FRESH Urban Farm and FRESH Programs
Interest in youth leadership and youth development
Strong drive to learn and practice good communication; work with team and community members respectfully and with patience
Interest in working with diverse populations - diﬀerent ages and various economic, social and political backgrounds
Qualities of self-motivation, time management, ﬂexibility and cooperation
Valid Driver’s License and Successful Driver’s License Check, preferred if over 18
Willing and able to drive pick-up truck, preferred if over 18
Successful CORI/SORI background check

Nice To Haves

Familiarity with organic growing methods
Valid Driver’s License and Successful Driver’s License Check
Willing and able to drive pick-up truck

Responsibilities

Assist the Farmer and Project Manager in the daily operation of FRESH's multiple garden sites and new urban farm in New London, such as transplanting, watering, weeding, and managing pests at multiple sites with limited supervision.
Record and report on the progress of each task to the Farm and Project Manager.
Maintain a watering schedule on multiple properties.
Work with high school-aged young people to harvest, weigh, wash, and properly store vegetables, set up for CSA pickup, and interface with community gardeners and CSA members who may have questions about the food and growing processes.
Other team-based tasks will involve building raised beds, planting seedlings, moving soil, and working at FRESH events such as plant sales, workshops, fundraisers, etc.
May be asked to operate FRESH vehicle if 18 years or older.