Farm Assistant

Heartland Human Care Services•Chicago, IL

10d•Onsite

About The Position

Under the direction of the Farm Supervisor, the Farm Assistant works collaboratively with internal and external partners to support the health, wellness, engagement, employment and community objectives of the program. We do this through two related goals: to distribute local produce of the highest quality to those who need it most, and to help people with multiple barriers to employment find full-time, permanent jobs. The Farm Assistant is a part time position for the growing season. The Farm Assistant is responsible for assisting with planting, maintenance, harvesting, post-harvesting handling, distribution and delivery, record keeping, volunteer management and supporting transitional jobs participants in farm education. The Farm Assistant leverages industry knowledge and best practices to promote the mission and vision of Heartland Human Care Services. Supports culture development and management efforts. Why Join Us? Make a meaningful impact on the lives of individuals seeking education and career pathways. Collaborate with a diverse and passionate team dedicated to the mission and vision of our organization. Providing flexibility and work-life balance. Participate in professional development opportunities to enhance your skills and expertise

Requirements

Minimum Associates degree from an accredited institute of higher education.
Minimum (3) years of related experience in urban agriculture or related experience is required.
Experience working with persons overcoming barriers to employment preferred.
Current driver’s license required
Execute a field plan, adjusting to possible unforeseeable variables such as weather, disease, or pest pressure
Be able to independently travel throughout Chicago
Demonstrate ability in presentation skills and leadership of group activities
Proficiency in Microsoft Office, Google Chrome, Outlook/Exchange; Windows operating systems and other software routinely used by Heartland Human Care Service.
Excellent communication skills. Strong networker, convener, relationship builder and communicator with experience collaborating with diverse work teams and stakeholders
Demonstrated ability to handle confidential and sensitive information possessing skills to handle situations in a professional manner
A high degree of collaboration and emotional intelligence, self-motivation, and analytical ability
Ability to solve practical problems and deal with a variety of concrete variables in situations where only limited standardization exists. Ability to interpret a variety of instructions furnished in written, oral, diagram, or schedule form
Ability to work independently and remain self-motivated with minimal direct supervision
Strategic thought partnership and consultancy skills

Responsibilities

Supports the coordination and execution of farm operations.
Executes crop plan, contribute to planting schedule, and calculate projections for yield per resident or consumer needs.
Delivers and handles produce abiding by post handling and health code regulations.
Works independently without direct supervision.
Supports the maintenance needs of the site, buildings, supplies, and equipment to standards of cleanliness, effectiveness and availability.
Coordinates work of transitional jobs participants, volunteers, youth participants, and others engaging in urban agriculture activities.
Utilizes Heartland Human Care Services (HHCS) Philosophy of Care when engaging with participants.
Assists with accomplishing program and contractual outcomes.
Ensures the implementation of organization and program/department policies and procedures (e.g. personnel and Standards of Professional Conduct, etc.).