What are the responsibilities and job description for the Farm Group Leader position at Learning 4 Life Farm?
Group Leader – Learning 4 Life Farm
Location: Johnstown, Ohio
Position Type: Part-Time
About Learning 4 Life Farm
Learning 4 Life Farm is a nonprofit teaching farm dedicated to empowering neurodiverse youth and young adults through hands-on learning, vocational training, and meaningful connections with agriculture, animals, and the community. Our programs provide inclusive opportunities for individuals to build confidence, develop life and job skills, and discover their strengths in a supportive farm environment.
Position Summary
Learning 4 Life Farm is seeking a compassionate, dependable, and creative Group Leader to support student and adult participants through farm-based educational and vocational programming. This role will lead small-group activities that combine animal care, gardening, farm maintenance, and life skills development while creating a safe, structured, and encouraging learning environment.
The ideal candidate enjoys working with neurodiverse individuals, has experience supporting diverse learning needs, and is comfortable working both indoors and outdoors in a hands-on farm setting.
Responsibilities
- Lead small-group instructional sessions that integrate farm activities with social, vocational, and life skills learning
- Adapt activities and lessons to meet the needs of neurodiverse learners, including individuals with autism and varying support needs
- Provide modeling, visual supports, encouragement, and step-by-step guidance during activities
- Support participants in developing vocational skills including:
- Animal care and handling
- Gardening and horticulture tasks
- Farm maintenance
- Teamwork and workplace readiness skills
- Facilitate daily farm routines including feeding, grooming, and caring for animals
- Guide participants through gardening activities such as planting, weeding, harvesting, and composting
- Maintain clean, organized, and safe indoor and outdoor learning spaces
- Implement positive behavior supports and proactive strategies to encourage engagement and success
- Promote communication, self-regulation, confidence, independence, and social connection through structured activities
- Build positive, trusting relationships with participants and encourage personal growth
- Monitor sensory needs, allergies, accommodations, and individualized supports
- Assist with preparing materials, visuals, and tools for daily programming
- Communicate participant progress, needs, and observations with program leadership and team members
- Complete daily documentation and data collection as required
- Collaborate with program directors, staff, and support team members to coordinate programming
- Participate in staff meetings, planning sessions, and professional development opportunities
- Follow all safety procedures, emergency protocols, and organizational policies
- Assist with occasional farm events, community outreach, marketing, and fundraising activities as needed
Qualifications
Required:
- Experience working with individuals with disabilities, neurodiverse learners, or youth/adult support programs
- Ability to provide patience, encouragement, and structure in a dynamic environment
- Comfortable working around animals and participating in outdoor farm activities
- Strong communication and teamwork skills
- Ability to follow individualized supports and program plans
- MUST pass a background check before beginning work.
Preferred:
- Experience as a Direct Support Professional (DSP), classroom aide, activity facilitator, paraprofessional, job coach, behavioral support staff, or similar role
- Experience supporting individuals with autism or developmental disabilities
- Experience with agriculture, animal care, gardening, or outdoor education
- CPR/First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain)
Physical Requirements
- Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions
- Ability to stand, walk, bend, lift, and participate in hands-on farm activities
- Ability to safely assist with animal care and program activities
Why Join Our Team?
At Learning 4 Life Farm, you’ll be part of a mission-driven team creating meaningful opportunities for neurodiverse individuals. This position offers the chance to make a direct impact while working in a unique environment where learning, connection, and growth happen every day!
Pay: $20.00 per hour
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- Flexible schedule
- Paid time off
Work Location: In person
Salary : $20