Life Lab Farm Manager - Part Time

FT/PT: Part-time

Status: Non-Exempt, At-Will

Reports To: Life Lab Science Teacher and C.O.O.

Gateway School, in beautiful Santa Cruz, CA, is a CAIS-accredited, independent K-8 day school of approximately 180 students that provides children with an academically challenging environment that nurtures their commitment to social justice, community service, and compassion for others. Our school is noted for its innovative instruction, co-curricular program integration, close student-teacher relationships, and supportive parent/guardian community.

Summary of Life Lab Farm Manager Role:

The objective of the Farm Manager is to support the dynamic Gateway School Life Lab Garden, and the Life Lab science program through general garden maintenance and upkeep. Staffing needs an average 15 hours per week year-round. Weekly hours can change as the seasonal needs of the garden changes; for example more hours during events and lead up to planting season, and fewer throughout the winter season.

The position requires one to:

• Provide general maintenance of the Life Lab Garden which includes; entrance and perimeters of the garden, hedgerows and native plant gardens, seasonal vegetable and perennial garden boxes, garden club gardens, labyrinth/pumpkin patch, fruit trees, and select tree plantings around the campus.

• Plant, weed, water, fertilize, fall/winter pruning, organic and integrated pest management control methods

• Install, repair and monitor irrigation including valves, timers and drip systems

• Organize supplies and tools in shed, classroom and throughout Life Lab Garden

• Support events as needed (e.g., One World Day, Grandfriends' Day, Pumpkin Sale, Salad Feast, etc.)

• Build, turn and maintain compost and vermiculture

• Manage Life Lab green waste, trash, and recycling

• Manage occasional rodents and pests

• Be able to safely lift 50lbs

• Install and remove seasonal trellis structures

• Assist during class times as needed for safety

• Attend occasional meetings as assigned, with Life Lab Teacher and Farm Team

• Other duties as assigned by the Life Lab teacher or Facilities Manager

Qualifications:

Required

• 2+ years of experience in the fields of organic gardening, orchard care, agroecology, and/or permaculture

• Knowledge and hands-on experience with irrigation systems and repair

• Passion and experience working in an educational environment

• Flexible schedule

Preferred

• Completion of UCSC Agroecology Apprenticeship Program or equivalent

Salary and benefits

Hours: Average of 15 hours a week (the weekly schedule is generally 3 shifts of approximately 4 - 6 hours during the school day

Start Date: Rolling basis

Pay: $22/hour

Benefits: None

Candidates selected by the search committee will be called for personal interviews.

Gateway School is an equal opportunity employer, and opportunities are open to all individuals without regard to race, religion, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, marital status, age, or handicap.