WHAT WE DO: 
The Trellis Center operates a small non-profit vegetable, herb and flower production farm, dedicated to providing hands-on learning opportunities for teens and adults with developmental disabilities. Our ideal candidate is passionate about farming, sharing their knowledge and knows how to have fun while doing so. We offer a culture rooted in teamwork, collaboration and growth where people feel empowered to make a difference and are energized by building relationships with people of all abilities. 

POSITION OVERVIEW

The Farm Lead manages all aspects of our growing operation at several purposely constructed areas.

Hydroponic Building - Climate-controlled hydroponic room with automated LED grow lights, processing room, refrigerated cooler room for harvested plants
Herb Building - 340 sq. ft. of growing shelves utilizing automatic capillary mat irrigation system with LED grow lights
Greenhouses -1,800 sq. ft.  Fully automated, climate controlled greenhouses with automated LED grow lights, processing area
Outdoor area- 48 raised garden beds and a small cultivated/irrigated field for row crops

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES

- Creates an environment of accountability, respect, and teamwork in the workplace

- Work with the Program Manager in planning the delivery of tasks involved in the growing areas in accordance with the mission and goals of the organization

- Collaborate with staff on tasks, obtains needed materials, and instruct planting/tending/proper harvest

- Orient new staff to growing areas upon hire

- Assess and acquire all materials necessary for growing in specific areas

- Operate farm within budget

- Create and manage sales of all produce, herbs and flowers at on-site farm store and in the community

- Perform or oversee harvest and processing of produce

- Maintain clean and orderly growing areas and all processing areas

- Set up, monitor, and maintain irrigation delivery systems at all areas

- Winterize all outdoor growing areas at the end of the season

QUALIFICATIONS

- Educational background in agriculture, horticulture, environmental science or relevant experience in the above fields

- Practical experience working in vegetable production

- Organized with the ability to prioritize daily farm tasks for a smooth operation of programs

- Resourcefulness and handiwork skills to maintain smooth operation of infrastructure and equipment 

- Strong problem-solving skills

- Knowledge of plant biology and growing science

- Knowledge of produce, seasonality, and processing technique

- Knowledge or strong interest in the production of herbs/flowers

- Strong communication in both verbal and written form

- Management skills to teach proper technique (and adaptive technique) to staff and participants

- Leadership skills to guide staff and participants to achieve the highest level of success in the growing areas

- Knowledge of hydroponic and capillary mat growing techniques or willingness to learn

- Ability to keep detailed records of farm operations. Working knowledge of Microsoft Office and Excel and the ability to do extensive internet research

- Strong knowledge of compost and composting techniques

- Commitment to organic/sustainable practices

PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORK ENVIRONMENT

- Ability to lift 50lbs+ on a regular basis

- Ability to work through hot and cold temperatures as well as inclement weather

POSITION DATES: Full-time, year-round, 40hr/wk (Monday-Friday) with all major holidays off. 

The benefits package includes Medical/Dental, paid vacation, and sick leave.