Youth Farm Farmer
JOB TITLE: Youth Farm - Farmer OperationsDEPARTMENT(S): Program, Youth FarmREPORTS TO: CEOFLSA: Part-TimeSCHEDULE: Monday-Friday (with rotating Saturdays), 6-8 hours dailyStart and end times are dependent on the seasonORGANIZATION 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 programmingLead the preparation, maintenance, and care of farm grounds to ensure the land is ready for each growing seasonManage soil health through preparation, remediation, composting, and seasonal readiness practicesExecute planting, cultivation, and harvesting activities aligned with seasonal farm plans in partnership with the youth crewSupervise and manage large groups of volunteers (youth and adults), including:Assigning daily tasksProviding clear direction and expectationsEnsuring safety and productivityCreating a positive and engaging learning environmentEngage youth with patience, enthusiasm, and encouragement while teaching hands-on agricultural practicesProvide training on the proper use of farm tools and equipmentSupport operation and safe use of farm equipment (tractor, walk-behind tiller, and other tools as applicable)Maintain farm infrastructure, tools, irrigation systems, and equipmentSupport greenhouse operations and plant care as neededAssist in harvesting, washing, packaging, and preparing produce for marketHelp ensure the farm is market-ready, including quality control and presentation of produceSupport relationship-building with customers and community members by educating them about the food grown on the farmAssist with farmers market setup, sales, and customer engagement as neededFoster a safe, inclusive, and empowering environment aligned with the Girls Inc. ExperienceCollaborate with staff to ensure smooth coordination between farm operations and youth programmingOperate farm van for transportation of youth, supplies, and produce as neededRepresent Girls Inc. with professionalism, integrity, and respectQUALIFICATIONS: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 volunteersAbility to manage large groups with structure, clarity, and positive leadershipComfort teaching hands-on skills in an outdoor environmentExperience using farm tools and equipment; ability to operate or willingness to learn tractor and/or walk-behind tiller preferredStrong communication skills and ability to engage youth with patience and enthusiasmPassion for youth development, agriculture, and community impactAbility to work in outdoor, physically demanding environmentsMust demonstrate alignment with the Girls Inc. mission and pro-girl environmentHigh school diploma required; additional experience or training in agriculture or related field preferredSPECIAL 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 requiredWillingness and ability to drive a 15-passenger vanAbility to work evenings and weekends as neededAbility to lift up to 50 lbs. and work outdoors in all weather conditionsMust pass background check and drug screeningADDITIONAL EXPECTATIONS:Engage in ongoing professional development related to agriculture and youth engagementContribute to a culture of teamwork, accountability, and joyPerform other duties as assignedEQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER: