Farmer

Unity Environmental University

At Unity Environmental University we are on a mission to make environmental education accessible and affordable to all. Our unique model combines a functional hierarchy and project-based structure through our four Sustainable Education Business Units (SEBUs) to promote collaboration and innovation (Distance Education, Sustainable Ventures, Hybrid Learning and the Technical Institute for Environmental Professions). We prioritize our students' needs above all else, offering a variety of modalities, including hybrid, in-person, hyflex, and online. Our innovative and inclusive culture prepares students to tackle real-world challenges and cultivate the next generation of environmental professionals and leaders who can make a positive impact on our world.
 

Our Mission:
We are dedicated to delivering quality education and experiences that produce outstanding environmentally competent professionals and inspire individuals from all walks of life to steward sustainable ecosystems.
 

About Sustainable Ventures:
Sustainable Ventures represents the real-world application of Unity Environmental University's curriculum through a range of lifestyle brands, including hospitality, retail, agriculture, and other environmentally and socially conscious businesses. We also offer curated learning opportunities in the form of non-degree, non-credit courses, upskilling programs, workforce training, and micro-credentials that serve the needs of employers and businesses. We believe that sustainability is key to long-term business success and tailor our messaging to each location and Venture. At Unity Environmental University: Sustainable Ventures, we serve as an incubator for products and services designed to appeal to a broad audience, helping to maximize non-tuition revenue and generate diverse income streams. Our goal is to demonstrate that sustainability and profitability can go hand in hand, creating a better world for all.
 

Job Overview:
The Seasonal Farmer (April 1 - June 15, 2024)position is responsible for providing agricultural services and hands on support to McKay Farm and Research Station. The Farmer is responsible for performing daily field and greenhouse operations at McKay Farm, including production, seeding & transplanting, field planting, weeding, irrigation, harvesting, washing and packing produce. This position also contributes to customer service, marketing, and sales of farm services and products. The salary range for this position is $15.00 - $20 per hour.

McKay Farm and Research Station is Unity Environmental University's multi-faceted greenhouse and field facility located on 27-acres in Thorndike, Maine. Certified by Maine Organic Farmers and Gardeners Association (MOFGA), it is a working production farm, with herbs and produce sold wholesale to local grocery stores. The Farmer supports and is supported by other members of Sustainable Ventures and works with all constituencies to realize the Unity Environmental University Mission and Strategic Plan.

Day to day responsibilities:

• Performs daily crop production activities in the field including bed preparation, mowing, mulching, watering, weeding, fertilization, planting, harvest, post-harvest handling, cover crop management, and pest management.
• Performs daily greenhouse activities including filling and seeding flats and pots, watering when necessary and routine monitoring of environmental conditions and adjusting accordingly.
• Monitor's condition of farm equipment and performs routine maintenance of all farm vehicles and equipment. Report's problems and works closely with farm management to ensure proper operation, maintenance, and repair.
• Operates outdoor/indoor irrigation systems.
• Operates farm equipment such as tractors, mowers, field implements and forklift.
• Contributes to record keeping efforts for evaluation of venture, productivity, energy use, and sustainability, as well as requirements for compliance with MOFGA Organic certification.
• Conducts wholesale and retail sales and updates database of customers and sales. Takes orders and makes deliveries.
• Operates the point-of-sale system, including running cards and collecting payment from customers.
• Demonstrates accurate cash management and inventory control accountability.
• Provides excellent customer service; acts in a courteous and professional manner when greeting guests at the facility.
• Monitor's inventory and recommends purchases of needed equipment and supplies.
• Follows protocols for safe use of chemicals.
• Performs repairs on buildings, irrigation systems, ventilation systems as needed.
• Maintains grounds for year-round visual appeal by performing regular mowing, trimming, weeding, mulching, and landscaping.
• Assists with the setup of displays both inside the greenhouses and outside as needed.
• Works continuously to improve safety at the facility by communicating and following safety guidelines; helps to identify and mitigate risks and demonstrates safe work habits.
• Works with the Manager to maintain an organized, inviting, safe and sanitary environment.
• Operating hours and time on-site will vary and may require early mornings, evenings, and/or weekends.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Do you have the skills?

• High School Diploma or GED equivalent
• 2-3 years working in a greenhouse agricultural setting.
• Implements a hands-on approach to assist with the management of daily operations.
• Ability to work as part of a team or independently as needed.
• Working knowledge of MS Office, including Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Outlook.
• Must possess a positive attitude.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills with all levels of the organization and with a variety of internal and external stakeholders.
• Organized and able to juggle multiple tasks at the same time and establish priorities for meeting deadlines, using time efficiently.
• Exercises independent judgement on a regular basis.
• Ability and willingness to work with students from diverse political/socioeconomic backgrounds and a wide range of physical and academic abilities.
• Contributes to the institutions commitment to sustainability and contributes to the institutions commitment to support a diverse and inclusive working and learning environment.
• Demonstrates commitment to Unity's core values and serves as a role model for the institutions standards of conduct.
• Personal commitment to the environmental focus and mission of the college.
• Ensures compliance with established Unity Environmental University policies & procedures
• A good driving record with the ability to obtain a valid Maine Drivers License.
• Ability to function effectively within a matrix organizational structure