Youth Farm Farmer

JOB TITLE: Youth Farm – Farmer Operations

DEPARTMENT(S): Program, Youth Farm

REPORTS TO: CEO

FLSA: Part-Time

SCHEDULE: Monday–Friday (with rotating Saturdays), 6-8 hours daily
Start and end times are dependent on the season

ORGANIZATION OVERVIEW:
Girls Inc. of Memphis inspires girls ages 6–18 to be strong, smart, and bold. Since 1946, Girls Inc. of Memphis has delivered research-based, outcome-driven programming that supports college readiness, leadership, and economic independence. At the Youth Farm in Frayser, girls engage in hands-on learning that integrates agriculture, entrepreneurship, and leadership development.

JOB PURPOSE:
Farmers is a hands-on farm practitioner and youth-facing leader responsible for maintaining the land, preparing the farm for seasonal production, and ensuring daily farm operations run effectively. This role works in tandem with the Farm Educator, with a primary focus on land stewardship, soil readiness, and overall farm maintenance.

This position requires a strong working knowledge of agriculture, including soil preparation, seasonal planting cycles, and the use of farm equipment. The Facilitator leads large groups of youth and volunteers, assigning tasks, supervising work, and transforming farm labor into meaningful learning experiences.

The Farm Facilitator plays a key role in creating a space where youth and volunteers contribute their energy and strengths to sustain the farm, while also learning agricultural practices through hands-on engagement. This individual supports the farm in being production-ready, market-ready, and community-connected.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

• Work in tandem with the Farm Educator and Youth Farm Manager to support overall farm operations and programming


• Lead the preparation, maintenance, and care of farm grounds to ensure the land is ready for each growing season


• Manage soil health through preparation, remediation, composting, and seasonal readiness practices


• Execute planting, cultivation, and harvesting activities aligned with seasonal farm plans in partnership with the youth crew


• Supervise and manage large groups of volunteers (youth and adults), including:
  
  
  
  • Assigning daily tasks
  
  
  • Providing clear direction and expectations
  
  
  • Ensuring safety and productivity
  
  
  • Creating a positive and engaging learning environment
  
  
  
  


• Engage youth with patience, enthusiasm, and encouragement while teaching hands-on agricultural practices


• Provide training on the proper use of farm tools and equipment


• Support operation and safe use of farm equipment (tractor, walk-behind tiller, and other tools as applicable)


• Maintain farm infrastructure, tools, irrigation systems, and equipment


• Support greenhouse operations and plant care as needed


• Assist in harvesting, washing, packaging, and preparing produce for market


• Help ensure the farm is market-ready, including quality control and presentation of produce


• Support relationship-building with customers and community members by educating them about the food grown on the farm


• Assist with farmers market setup, sales, and customer engagement as needed


• Foster a safe, inclusive, and empowering environment aligned with the Girls Inc. Experience


• Collaborate with staff to ensure smooth coordination between farm operations and youth programming


• Operate farm van for transportation of youth, supplies, and produce as needed


• Represent Girls Inc. with professionalism, integrity, and respect

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Strong working knowledge of agriculture, including soil preparation, seasonal planting, and land management (required)


• Experience in farming, landscaping, or land-based work (minimum 3 years preferred)


• Experience supervising or managing groups, especially youth and/or volunteers


• Ability to manage large groups with structure, clarity, and positive leadership


• Comfort teaching hands-on skills in an outdoor environment


• Experience using farm tools and equipment; ability to operate or willingness to learn tractor and/or walk-behind tiller preferred


• Strong communication skills and ability to engage youth with patience and enthusiasm


• Passion for youth development, agriculture, and community impact


• Ability to work in outdoor, physically demanding environments


• Must demonstrate alignment with the Girls Inc. mission and pro-girl environment


• High school diploma required; additional experience or training in agriculture or related field preferred

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Must be at least 25 years of age (age to rent equipment and vehicles-uhauls)


• Valid driver’s license, current car insurance, and reliable transportation required


• Willingness and ability to drive a 15-passenger van


• Ability to work evenings and weekends as needed


• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs. and work outdoors in all weather conditions


• Must pass background check and drug screening

ADDITIONAL EXPECTATIONS:

• Engage in ongoing professional development related to agriculture and youth engagement


• Contribute to a culture of teamwork, accountability, and joy


• Perform other duties as assigned

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER:
Girls Inc. of Memphis is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to creating an inclusive environment for all participants.