Agriculture Assistant

St. Matthew's House is seeking an Agriculture Assistant in LaBelle, FL, to support agricultural production and training programs for residents. Responsibilities include sustainable food production, teaching gardening techniques, managing agricultural resources, and maintaining equipment. Candidates must have a high school diploma, relevant experience, and a valid Florida driver's license. The role requires outdoor work in various weather conditions and a flexible schedule, including nights and weekends.
DescriptionOUR CORE PURPOSE:As an expression of God’s love in Southwest Florida, we are growing to ensure that no one experiencing hunger, homelessness or addiction is alone or without a pathway for their journey from crisis to contributor. Together with our partners and participants, we cultivate communities where people are progressively seen, accepted, challenged, and supported.GENERAL SUMMARYThe Agriculture Assistant position works with the Manager of Agricultural Program to determine direction of production and maintenance of agricultural resources and develop agricultural training programs for the residents. This position will assist in producing fresh fruits, vegetables, and herbs for Justin’s Place at Port LaBelle Inn. The Agriculture Assistant will also be responsible for educating recovery residents in the field of sustainable agricultural management and related recovery principles by allowing them to gain advanced knowledge within the agriculture field.ESSENTIAL TASKS:Raises a sustainable food source for the program. Runs well-functioning sustainable systems.Trains residents on how to garden and teaches them agriculture techniques. Participates in and teaches agriculture classes and demonstrations. Leads resident work teams.Facilitates agriculture social enterprise initiatives. Maintains agriculture program’s equipment, tools, raised beds, orchards, livestock, greenhouse, perennial gardens, irrigation, and pest and disease management, etc. Regularly checks irrigation and operating equipment are in good order.Assists the Agriculture Manager in recording and tracking relative crop, seasonal, and agricultural data i.e. planting dates, crop variety data, greenhouse temperatures, watering rates, harvest weights.Applies fertilizers, nutrients, pest management, soil amendments, etc.Assists Agriculture Program projects at other properties on an as needed basis, i.e. Jill’s PlaceAssist in the preparation and participates in Port Labelle Inn and Agriculture events, i.e. Harvest Fest.RequirementsMINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS, KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES:High School Degree or GED. At least one year of related experience in agriculture, livestock, gardening, or environmental sciences required.Florida Pesticide Applicator’s License or willing to obtain it within 6 months of hire. Valid Florida driver’s licenseCompetent on basic computer skills. Competency in email, spreadsheets, Google Drive, etcMust be trustworthy, work well in a team environment, and maintain a neat, professional appearance. The ability to work safely and co-operatively in a variety of situations is a must. Motivated to research and execute project ideas and improvements.Treats all residents with respect and exercises appropriate boundaries with residents Must be willing to work non-standard work schedule including nights, weekends, and other unusual hours due to business needs.Must always maintain a high level of integrity, including (but not limited to) safety, courtesy, and positive communication.Must be able to stand for a minimum of 8 hours at a time and lift at least 50 pounds. Must be able to walk variable distances. Must be able to bend or kneel to the ground and endure heavy manual labor.Must be able to work in an outdoor environment. Able to work in extreme weather and heat conditions of Florida.