AmeriCorps Urban Farm Assistant

Skills

This position requires the ability to work both independently and in a team setting. Excellent organizational and communication skills, the ability to serve under deadline pressure and the ability to handle multiple tasks are vital to success in this position. General computer skills are required. The ability to serve with volunteers and tolerate a diversity of life experiences and personalities is essential. AmeriCorps members must possess the ability to serve outdoors in adverse weather conditions (heat, cold, insects, rain, mud, etc.), be able to carry 40 pounds and to walk multiple miles a day across the scattered site urban farm. Members must be able to travel to their service site, and must supply their own farm-appropriate workwear. Members must possess a willing attitude to discuss agronomics and interact with members of the community.

Schedule

Typical hours of service will be 24 hrs/week from Monday-Saturday during regular office hours of 8:00-5:00pm; however, sometimes earlier or later service hours are preferable during extreme heat. The ability to serve flexible hours, including evenings and weekends, is needed. Hours may fluctuate, increase or decrease, in consideration of seasonal changes such as inclement weather or other extended activities. Scheduled hours can be divided across multiple short shifts or fewer longer shifts. All 900 service hours must be served within the service term, and service hours can be allocated non-uniformly, if necessary.

Member Dynamic

Member is supervised by Franklinton Farms’ Farm Manager, and is expected to serve with multiple Franklinton Farms’ staff, including but limited to: Farm staff, the Volunteer Coordinator, Volunteers, Board Members, and Independent Contractors.

Duties & Responsibilities of AmeriCorps Member:

  • Planting vegetable transplants

  • Harvest, wash, and pack produce from the field

  • Bending and lifting in performing service tasks; Lifting upwards of 40 lbs

  • Tool repair and maintenance

  • Light construction

  • Weeding, fruit and vegetable field maintenance, and trellis vining plants

  • Scouting for pest and pest management

  • Assistance with microgreens and seedling production

  • Monitor and maintain water and drip irrigation systems

  • Assist in the distribution and delivery of Weekly Harvest Packs throughout Franklinton

  • Participate at Farmer's markets distributing literature and public relations about growing processes

  • Prepare flyers and surveys and assist with the distribution

  • Support other Appalachian Ohio Restore Corps members and their programs

  • Participate in training and conferences as necessary to increase knowledge and gain career networking opportunities

  • Complete monthly activity reports, required timesheets and periodic reports through the OnCorps online system and email

  • Attend required AORC and Franklinton Farms meetings and events

Franklinton Farms strives to be accessible to members of the community with disabilities