Orkestai Farm is located on Long Island in the Planting Fields Arboretum State Historic Park on an acre of land in the park’s backland grassy meadows. We practice and teach sustainable and organic methods of vegetable farming to Farm Learners with and without Developmental Disabilities. We exist to promote the creative participation of All people in society through the practice of sustainable agriculture and the expressive arts.

Orkestai Farm is looking for a part-time Farm Crew and Educator for the 2019 growing season. The ideal applicant will have experience both working on a vegetable farm and interfacing with people of diverse backgrounds, and also be passionate about sustaining local food systems and connecting people to the “natural” world. The central focus of the position is helping lead a hands-on experiential learning program (with a 25 member plus CSA at its core) for Orkestai Farm Learners. The Farm Crew and Educator will assist the Farm Manager and Director of Farm Operations in planning, executing, and overseeing vegetable farm production, which includes but is not limited to: crop planning, soil building, seed ordering, succession planning, greenhouse management, irrigation and mulching, nutrient management, CSA coordination, weed management, harvest and post-harvest handling of vegetables. In addition the Farm Crew and Educator will teach farming to all Farm Learners. Applicant must be a self-starter, able to take initiative and communicate that initiative to others in an effective and inclusive way.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

•  Teach organic farming to people of skill levels
• Complete Manual field work, not limited to bed preparation, transplanting, hand-weeding, trellising, irrigation set up and management, propagation, cultivation, and care for greenhouse and field crops.
• Harvest, wash, and pack for CSA
• Keep farm neat and orderly at all times
• Communicate with other staff and volunteers

THE IDEAL CANDIDATE:

•  Has at least one full season of farm experience, and the ability to learn quickly and think fast and in the moment
•  Is energetic and has a great work ethic
•  Loves working outdoors in any weather
•  Can take direction, communicate effectively, and is a team player
•  Is organized and professional
•  Is able to work independently and be very self-motivated
•  Is punctual and time efficient
• Is able to lift 50 lbs repeatedly, and to squat, kneel, bend over, and reach for extended periods of time