Sustainable Agriculture Assistant

The Truckee Meadows Parks Foundation is seeking a Sustainable Agriculture Assistant for a 6-month AmeriCorps position in Reno, NV. The role involves managing plant propagation in a greenhouse, performing various farm tasks, and participating in community events. Candidates should have a commitment to sustainable agriculture, strong interpersonal skills, and the ability to work outdoors. Compensation includes a living allowance and education award.
Organic Plant Propagation Assistant - AmeriCorps DFI Greenhouse

Passionate about sustainable agriculture? Join our team at DFI and make a meaningful impact on fruit and vegetable production!

Position Overview

As an Organic Plant Propagation Assistant, you will play a leading role in our greenhouse and collaborate with the 2022 farm team. This is a 6-month position that offers hands-on training, making it a great opportunity for individuals interested in learning about plant propagation and sustainable agriculture. You will report to the DFI Director and receive guidance from the Farm Production Manager and Education Program Coordinator. This role involves physically demanding outdoor tasks, interaction with diverse groups, and independent work as well as collaboration with a dynamic team.

Primary Responsibilities
• Manage and contribute to DFIs plant propagation program, growing annual and perennial plant starts for our farm as well as other farms, nurseries, and nonprofits
• Conduct various farm tasks such as weeding, harvesting, cultivation, irrigation management, small equipment operation, and packaging and delivery of fruits and vegetables
• Assist with timely record keeping related to plant propagation and crop production
• Participate in events for university students, AmeriCorps service members, and the public, with opportunities to provide training to other farm team members and volunteers
• Support DFI's storytelling efforts through basic social media postings
• Maintain professional interactions with university faculty, staff, students, media, and the public

Qualifications
• Strong commitment to sustainable agriculture and a genuine interest in a food systems or agricultural career in Nevada
• Ability to multitask in a fast-paced environment and take initiative to improve farm systems
• Physical stamina to perform outdoor labor in varying temperatures
• Excellent work ethic and positive attitude
• Strong interpersonal communication skills
• Proficient in Microsoft Office applications and strong computer skills
• Organizational skills and experience working with volunteers preferred
• Preferred: background or understanding of horticulture and/or food systems
• Preferred: experience working on a commercial or educational farm

Compensation

As an AmeriCorps member, you will receive a living allowance of $8,471 for the 6-month term, along with a Segal AmeriCorps Education Award of $3,172.50. Additionally, you will receive an AmeriCorps/DFI t-shirt, hoodie, hat, and water bottle. Other benefits include the option for student loan forbearance and potential eligibility for SNAP and Medicaid benefits.

Service Location

DFI at the Nevada Agriculture Experiment Station, 920 Valley Road, Reno, NV 89512. AmeriCorps contracts, living allowances, and education awards are managed through the Truckee Meadows Parks Foundation. Some daytime travel within the metro area and region may be required.

Timeline and Schedule

The half-term service will run from February to August 2022, with an approximate 40-hour workweek. Time off includes 5 days of vacation, 5 days of sick leave, and federal holidays. The completion of 920 service hours is required for this AmeriCorps term.

Application Information

To apply, please submit a detailed resume, cover letter, and 2 professional references directly to Jill Moe, DFI Director, at jmoe@unr.edu. Incomplete applications and applications submitted through online platforms (such as Indeed) will not be considered.

Application Deadline: December 20, 2021

Employment Type: Full-Time