F.R.E.S.H. New London (Food: Resources, Education, Security, Health)

c/o The Gemma E. Moran/United Way Labor Food Center, P.O. Box 429, 374 Broad St, New London, CT 06320 www.freshnewlondon.org

 

F.R.E.S.H. New London is a non-profit organization which works to increase access to fresh, local foods and educate and empower the people of New London County about their health and the local food system.  We believe that public health, social justice and ecological sustainability are inextricably linked.  Through food-related projects, our goals are to work in: experiential youth education for ecological literacy and health; training for community and individual self-reliance; promotion of improved community management of natural resources; economic opportunities through local agriculture (including youth entrepreneurship); innovative distribution and marketing of locally grown food; and cultivation of the next generation of youth leaders.

 

Position Title:  FRESH ASSISTANT FARM MANAGER    

Position Status: Seasonal 6-month position (April – October 2010) 30-40 hours/ Wk

 

Position Location: New London, CT

 

Supervisor:  Director of Operations

 

Job Overview: The FRESH Assistant Farm Manager position is an opportunity for an individual interested in learning the skills of farming, while at the same time engaging with community food security and social change.  The Assistant Farm Manager will assist with the organization, coordination and implementation of work and activities at the FRESH Farm at Waterford Country School (WCS); help facilitate paid youth and the volunteer labor force at the Farm and will be integrated into the fabric of FRESH New London.  The FRESH Farm is two acres of intensive, organically-cultivated land, a 1000 square foot greenhouse, an irrigation pond & harvest barn/outdoor classroom situated as part of the WCS Experiential Education and Farm Center.   This position includes responsibility, rigorous service-learning, experiential education about agro-ecology & working with a diversity of people.  

 

 Primary Duties and Responsibilities of FRESH Assistant Farm Manager Include:

• Assist in the organization, coordination and management of FRESH Crew, WCS staff and students and volunteers at the FRESH Farm. 
• Assist with the greenhouse management and plant propagation (coordinate with WCS)
• Assist with implementation of weekly planting schedule for greenhouse seeding, field seeding and transplanting.
• Assist with insect and weeds control, fertility monitoring, and general field observation
• Assist with and manage crews to do weekly harvests in season
• Assist with soil-building program including composting.
• Assist with irrigation and equipment.
• Coordination with FRESH staff for sales and marketing and donation of produce
• Assist with maintenance and monitoring of electric Deer fence

 

 

Desired Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Some agricultural experience & a strong interest in learning organic farming.  
• Experience working with youth and interest in youth leadership and youth development.
• An ecological sense, knowledge of dynamic interplay between food system, farming, natural world, society and individuals. 
• Ability to manage dynamic schedule, agricultural calendars, weekly schedules consisting of work with many people.
• Strong communication skills:  ask questions, make observations and share that information clearly with others.
• Ability to comfortably lift up to 40 pounds repeatedly, wake up early and do physical labor.
• Experience and interest in working with diverse populations - different ages and various economic, social and political backgrounds.
• Ability to work with team and community members respectfully and with patience.
• Qualities of self-motivation, time management, flexibility and cooperation.

Special Requirements: Work in field, greenhouse, outdoor classroom and office.  Hard and repetitive physical work up to 8 hours/day.  Weekend and evening hours on occasion. Ability to provide transportation to/from farm. 

Commitment:

·             Position exists for six months (start date between April 1^st and April 15^th; end date between Oct 1^st and Oct 15^th)

·             Between 30 – 40 hours/week

·             Time off during this period needs to be scheduled with maximum advanced notice and kept to a minimum.

 

Wage & Benefits:

·             $8.25/hour.

·             No medical benefits are offered with this position.  Worker’s compensation is provided.

·             Assistance can be provided locating local housing if needed.

·             An abundance of fresh fruits and vegetables from the farm.

To apply: Please contact:
Emily Lerner, Director of Personnel
freshnewlondon@hotmail.com                                                                                                                                                                                           phone:860-444-8050 x.14         

fax: 860-444-8053 – Attention: FRESH New London/Emily Lerner

Deadline: Position open until filled.