Duke Farms (DF) is a leader in environmental stewardship and inspires visitors to become informed stewards of the land. It is a place of education, enjoyment and research that enhances the environmental health of the region.

Through the beauty of its natural setting, the diversity of its wildlife, and the scope and quality of its educational programs, demonstrations and research, DF inspires people to transform their approach to conservation and to start building a more sustainable future.

The Vegetable Grower is a member of the Natural Resources & Agroecology Team. They will be responsible for working under the supervision of the Manager of Sustainable Agriculture on the planting and maintaining of a small-scale farming operation from high tunnel and field production, to support our agroecology program and enhance visitor and community engagement by supplying our on-site farm-to-table café and catering operations, as well as local food banks and community soup kitchens. The individual will actively contribute to the implementation of Duke Farms’ multi-faceted agriculture program, including greenhouse production, vegetable growing, perennial crops, innovative cover crop/green manure practices and may be called upon to support other aspects of the farm as needed.

The Vegetable Grower will be required to reside at Duke Farms, as a condition of his/her employment, in provided housing subject to the Duke Farms Housing Protocols.

Day-to-day Operations

• All aspects of farm work, in all extremes of weather, including, but not limited to: irrigation, weeding, seeding, transplanting, feeding, greenhouse propagation/production, garden layout and marketing;
• Appropriate post-harvest washing and handling following best practices for food safety;

• Working with Sustainable Agriculture Manager and Coordinator as needed to address appropriate growing schedule, harvest schedule, delivery schedule and variety and quantity of produce grown;
• Assist with record keeping of pertinent information regarding the farming operation including seeding and transplanting dates, harvest quantities, and amendment schedule;
• General upkeep and maintenance of growing equipment, walk-in cooler, wash room   and growing area;
• Other related work as required.

• At least one year of experience in vegetable growing is required, preferably at a sustainable agricultural operation utilizing best management practices;
• Competent and familiar various hand tools needed to maintain the vegetable operation including seeders, weed whacker, small rototiller or the ability and willingness to learn from seasoned professional Duke Farms staff;
• Self-motivated and capable of completing daily tasks independently and without direct supervision;
• Ability to communicate to the general public the various aspects of the farming operation along with the ability work with and lead volunteers;
• Willing to work around and with various livestock;
• Able to traverse the 2700+ acre Duke Farm’s property as well as travel to other locations;
• Able to lift and carry at least 40 lbs;
• Willing to work indoors and outdoors under various weather conditions;
• Willing to work outside of traditional business hours, including weekends, evenings and occasional holidays;
• Valid driver’s license (to be able to travel to our other locations)

The Doris Duke Charitable Foundation is committed to inclusive hiring and dedicated to diversity in its work and workplace culture. We provide equal opportunity for employees and applicants in all aspects of the employment relationship, without regard to race, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, citizenship, marital status, military or veteran status, disability, age, religion or any other classification protected by law; and we strongly encourage candidates of all identities, experiences, orientations and communities to apply.