What are the responsibilities and job description for the Farmer-Educator position at Friends of Boulder Knoll?
Farmer Educator
(12-14 average weekly hours from March 15 to Nov. 15)
Boulder Knoll Community Farm is a small-scale, environmentally sustainable farm in Cheshire, CT that leases gardening plots to individuals and community groups, including a gardening collaborative called Seeds&Weeds. We support the planting, growth and harvesting of healthy produce for our member gardeners, and we address food insecurity in the community by donating excess produce. Because education is central to our mission, we emphasize the links between people, plants and the earth to promote environmental responsibility.
The Farmer-Educator will report to a designated Friends of Boulder Knoll (FOBK) Officer.
Job Overview
The FOBK Farmer-Educator will work with the FOBK Board to plan and oversee the 2025 season at Boulder Knoll Community Farm. This is a hands-on job where soil health and crop planning expertise are essential. Equally important is the ability to communicate often and effectively with enthusiastic gardeners, who have a wide range of experience and skill.
Responsibilities and Duties
- Create and share a seasonal calendar, including crop timelines for both Seeds&Weeds and Farm-to-Table gardens, to coordinate efforts throughout 2025.
- Be physically on site and available to Seeds&Weeds gardeners as an organic farming resource, including planning, prepping, planting, nurturing and harvesting crops and providing information, instruction and education.
- Be physically on site and available to the FOBK Board to support prepping, planting, nurturing and harvesting crops for our Farm to Table Dinner on August 21, 2025.
- Oversee the distribution of the farm’s surplus produce to community food pantries and other non-profits.
- With the FOBK Board, create and implement consistent, effective communication messaging to our various audiences, which include BKCF gardeners, community partners and the larger community.
- Plan and coordinate at least four formal educational activities/workshops throughout the season.
General Qualifications
- Hands-on experience and knowledge of organic sustainable farming
- Good communicator with strong people management skills
- Strong work ethic
- Self-starter with initiative, flexibility, and organizational strengths
- Physically strong and able to handle farm equipment, work garden plots and lead work teams
Hours and Compensation
The Farmer-Educator is expected to average 12 to 14 hours a week, from mid-March to Mid-November. Hours are on-site, and some weekend hours are required.
This is an independent contractor position, offering no fringe benefits and income taxes will not be withheld. Compensation will depend on experience and hours worked. We ask for a full-season commitment.
Job Types: Part-time, Contract, Temporary
Pay: $400.00 - $500.00 per month
Expected hours: 12 – 14 per week
Work Location: In person
Salary : $400 - $500