What are the responsibilities and job description for the Farm Technician position at Solutions for Urban Agriculture?
Farm Food Lab
Position Overview
Farm Food Lab is seeking a reliable, highly capable Farm Technician to support daily farm operations, assist with educational programming, and help maintain a welcoming, well-run public farm. This role blends practical agricultural work with community engagement and requires someone who can take ownership of core farm functions with minimal oversight. The ideal candidate is comfortable working independently, solving problems in real time, and confidently engaging with the public. The Farm Technician plays a key role in keeping the site productive, organized, and accessible to the public.
Key Responsibilities
Farm Operations & Maintenance
- Perform routine farm maintenance to ensure safe, efficient daily operations
- Maintain cleanliness and organization of work areas, tools, and equipment
- Assist with installation, repair, and upkeep of irrigation systems, fencing, beds, and other farm infrastructure
- Operate and manage core farm systems independently, identifying and addressing issues proactively
- Support implementation of sustainable and regenerative farming practices, including basic permaculture elements
Planting & Crop Care
- Sow seeds, transplant seedlings, and support seasonal planting plans
- Lead seed starting and plant propagation efforts, including greenhouse or nursery management as applicable
- Monitor plant health, identify pests or disease issues, and report concerns to supervisors
- Assist with soil management practices, crop rotation, and general bed preparation
Landscape & Native Plant Care
- Maintain and support California native plant areas and demonstration gardens
- Perform pruning, seasonal maintenance, and plant replacement as needed
- Support landscape health and overall site aesthetics
Animal Care
- Support daily care of livestock, with primary responsibility for chickens
- Ensure animals are fed, watered, and housed in clean, safe conditions
- Observe animal health and communicate any concerns promptly
Public Engagement & Education
- Serve as a friendly and knowledgeable presence on the farm for visitors
- Confidently lead farm tours for schools, community groups, and the public
- Share information about farming practices, sustainability, and the pollinator garden in an approachable way
Events & Weekend Coverage
- Provide operational and visitor support during weekends and special events
- Assist with workshops, classes, volunteer days, and community programs as needed
Qualifications & Skills
- Demonstrated hands-on experience in farming, gardening, landscaping, or related outdoor work, with the ability to work independently
- Experience with seed starting, plant propagation, and seasonal crop cycles
- Experience with irrigation installation, maintenance, and troubleshooting
- Familiarity with California native plants and or sustainable landscaping practices
- Strong organizational skills and comfort using Google Workspace and Slack
- Clear communication skills and confidence interacting with the public
- Ability to assist with and lead educational tours or programming
- Ability to take ownership of daily farm operations and execute tasks without constant supervision
- Physically able to lift up to 50 lbs and perform repetitive, physically demanding tasks
- Comfortable working outdoors in varying weather conditions and standing for extended periods
- Availability to work weekends and occasional special events
Preferred (Not Required)
- Familiarity with permaculture or regenerative agriculture concepts
- Experience working on public-facing farms, gardens, or educational sites
If you are dependable, experienced, and ready to take ownership of a dynamic, public-facing farm environment, we encourage you to apply. The Farm Technician role offers the opportunity to build practical skills, engage with the community, and contribute to a mission-driven agricultural space.
Job Type: Part-time
Pay: $17.00 - $21.50 per hour
Work Location: In person
Salary : $17 - $22