Seasonal Kiwanis Farm Assistant

                                                                             THIS TEMPORARY POSITION

                                             IS FOR THE MARCH THROUGH MAY PORTION OF OUR GROWING SEASON

SUMMARY: 

We had a record-breaking growing season last year and we are hoping to do even better this year!

This 20 hour per week,  three-month temporary position is responsible for supporting the management of the Thurston County Food Bank’s (TCFB) collaborative project Olympia Kiwanis Food Bank Gardens (OKFBG).   

Under the direction of the Farm Manager/Field to Food Bank Coordinator, primary responsibilities for supporting the OKFBG may include:  Tasks required to operate a small-scale vegetable farm including; soil preparation, tool use and maintenance, irrigation set-up and maintenance, field sowing, greenhouse tasks, transplanting, weeding, harvesting, and post-harvest handling and delivery in addition to volunteer recruitment and coordination. Garden staff will also have the opportunity to learn about irrigation, seed varieties, and other farming skills.  Farm Assistants should be prepared to work in all weather conditions.

This staff member will play a key role in supporting staff and volunteers in hunger relief by increasing food access, quality, and quantity.

KEY ROLES (Essential Job Responsibilities):

1. Assist farm program lead with propagation, soil prep, field seeding, planting, harvesting, cover cropping, field maintenance, produce delivery, and data entry.


2. Assist with managing farm volunteers.


3. Deliver produce to Food Bank buildings using TCFB vehicle.


4. Limited weekly gleaning opportunities

MINIMUM JOB REQUIREMENTS/SKILLS:

• Reliability


• Ability to work independently and with minimal supervision.


• Farm or Garden experience.


• Willingness to work outside in various weather conditions.


• Attention to detail.


• Ability to communicate well both verbally and in writing.


• Ability to understand and follow oral and written instructions.


• Ability to interpret and carry out Federal, State, and local program standards.


• Ability to understand and apply the philosophy and mission of the Thurston County Food Bank.


• Ability to maintain flexible work hours to accommodate meeting schedules, staff training, and other organizational related activities.


• Computer literacy includes the use of word processing, database, and spreadsheet software.


• Washington State Driver’s License and reliable transportation to be used on the job.


• Food Handler’s permit or ability to obtain one within 30 days of employment.
  

COMPUTER/TECHNOLOGY SKILLS/EQUIPMENT/SOFTWARE SKILLS:

The following is the common technology used in this position and is not all inclusive:

• Computer literacy including the use of word processing, database, and spreadsheet software.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

• 
  Ability to stand and/or kneel for up to 8 hours throughout the day.


• 
  Ability to lift 50 lbs throughout the day.


• 
  Ability to work outside in various weather conditions.

DISCLAIMER:

All of the above duties and responsibilities are essential job functions subject to reasonable accommodation. All job requirements listed indicate the minimum level of knowledge, skills and/or ability to perform the job proficiently. This job description is not to be construed as an exhaustive statement of duties, responsibilities or requirements. Individuals may be required to perform any other job-related instructions as requested by their supervisor, subject to reasonable accommodation.

This position requires availability for extended or non traditional hours as needed to perform job duties. The position also requires periodic participation and attendance at related program events and training.

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:

• Part-time: 20 hours per week


• Temporary (90 days)


• Salary:  $22.63 per hour


• Benefits:  THIS 90 DAY TEMPORARY POSITION IS NOT BENEFITS ELIGIBLE