Garden Farmer - Kona Village

Rosewood Hotel Group•Kailua Kona, HI

10d

About The Position

The Garden Farmer manages, cultivates, and maintains diverse gardens and small-scale food production plots. The role implements sustainable, high-yield gardening practices while honoring the local land ('Āina), overseeing work from seed propagation and soil health management through harvesting tropical fruits, vegetables, and native flora. The position also maintains irrigation systems and garden infrastructure, harvests and handles produce, and practices land stewardship, including clearing invasive species and weeds while preserving native habitats and cultivated areas.

Requirements

At least 2–3 years of hands-on experience in tropical farming, market gardening, or estate landscaping.
Deep understanding of Hawaii's volcanic soil types, microclimates, and year-round growing seasons.
Ability to work outdoors for extended periods in hot, humid, or rainy tropical weather.
Ability to regularly lift up to 50 lbs.
Skill in safely using weed eaters, chainsaws, chippers, and basic hand tools.
Strong interpersonal skills and a respectful, collaborative attitude toward the local community and land traditions.
Ability to support community and school site visits and discuss the garden.

Nice To Haves

Degree or certificate in Tropical Agriculture, Horticulture, or Environmental Science, or equivalent experience.
Familiarity with native Hawaiian plants such as Kalo, ʻUlu, and Maiʻa, and with traditional farming methods.

Responsibilities

Propagate, plant, and tend a wide variety of fruits, vegetables, herbs, and ornamental plants.
Manage soil fertility using organic practices, including composting, vermiculture, and local cover crops.
Implement integrated pest management (IPM) to control tropical pests and diseases without harsh chemicals.
Prune and shape trees and windbreaks to optimize health and yield.
Operate and maintain micro-drip and overhead irrigation systems suited to microclimates.
Manage water resources efficiently and monitor soil moisture to prevent drought stress or root rot.
Maintain garden infrastructure, including raised beds, trellises, greenhouses, and tool sheds.
Harvest produce at peak ripeness and ensure proper handling, washing, and storage.
Practice 'Āina-based stewardship, incorporating traditional Hawaiian agricultural concepts such as Ahupuaʻa systems or planting by moon phases (Malama Mahina) where applicable.
Clear invasive species and weeds safely to preserve native habitats and cultivated zones.
Support community and school site visits and speak to details about the garden.