HYDROPONIC FARMER-EDUCATOR

Teens For Food Justice is hiring a Hydroponic Farmer-Educator to engage high school students in hands-on hydroponic farming at DeWitt Clinton High School in New York. The role involves teaching sustainable farming practices, overseeing farm operations, managing food distribution, and fostering community connections. Candidates should have a high school diploma, relevant experience, and strong communication skills. This position is not remote and requires physical presence at the school.
About the position

Teens for Food Justice (TFFJ) is dedicated to creating a food-secure future through innovative, school-based, youth-led hydroponic farming initiatives. This role is centered at DeWitt Clinton High School, where the Farmer-Educator will engage students in grades 9-12 in hands-on farming lessons and activities. The Farmer-Educator will play a pivotal role in empowering students to advocate for systemic changes that promote access to healthy, affordable food in their communities. This position involves mastering the latest hydroponic technologies and training students in sustainable food production practices. The Farmer-Educator will oversee all farm-based programming, which includes integrated curricular day classes, afterschool programs, farm internships, and food distribution efforts to the school cafeteria and local community partners. As a Farmer-Educator, you will have significant autonomy and responsibility for the farm's operations, which closely resemble those of a commercial hydroponic grower. Daily tasks will include planting, transplanting, and harvesting crops, monitoring plant health, and maintaining cleanliness and safety on the farm. You will also manage food distribution operations, ensuring that harvested produce is efficiently packed, labeled, and delivered to various recipients, including cafeteria managers and community centers. In addition to farming responsibilities, you will serve as an educator, leading students in daily operations and co-teaching STEM classes that incorporate hands-on farm tasks and food justice discussions. This role is crucial in building connections between students, the school, and the broader community, fostering a culture of health and sustainability.

Responsibilities
• Carry out daily farm tasks including planting, transplanting, and harvesting crops.
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• Monitor, track, and report all farm production data.
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• Clean equipment and maintain high standards of cleanliness on the farm.
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• Observe and report plant health issues such as pests and diseases.
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• Collect and report data in an online farm management dashboard.
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• Enforce food and farm safety protocols for all students, staff, and visitors.
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• Collaborate with the Farm Operations manager to meet production targets.
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• Lead periodic farm tours for students and community members.
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• Manage food distribution operations including harvesting, packing, and labeling produce.
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• Communicate with customers/recipients to ensure safe and efficient delivery of produce.
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• Manage inventory of farm supplies and request supplies as needed.

Requirements
• High school diploma or GED.
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• At least 2 years of work experience.
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• Ability to clear a required NYCDOE background check.
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• Strong verbal and electronic communication skills.
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• Comfortable using a Windows PC for email and data entry.
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• Ability to follow and provide directions effectively.
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• Ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.
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• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
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• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds.
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• Ability to climb ladders and rolling staircases.

Nice-to-haves
• Knowledge of and commitment to social justice.
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• Interest or experience in food service, farming, urban agriculture, community health, or youth development.
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• Desire to work with youth.
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• High energy level and a positive outlook.
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• Ability to provide three references.

Benefits
• Competitive salary ranging from $45.00 to $55.00 based on experience.