Last year, our large work exchange program was successful, thanks in large part to our thriving community garden. The garden provided tons of delicious, organic seasonal produce to many kitchens in our village, including Belly World and the work exchanger (aka wexer) kitchen co-op. It was also a consistent source of rewarding and productive work for volunteers. The success of the garden is critical to the program, so this year we’ve decided to hire a dedicated garden manager.  

We are looking for someone who has experience growing organic vegetables and working with volunteers. The garden is big, about 13,000 square feet, and you can expect to have 2-4 folks working with you a few times each week. The garden has been nicely put to bed and is basically ready to go in the spring, although it is still new and does not have a comprehensive set of systems and equipment. We are in planting Zone 6a.

The garden manager will stay on site in one of our charming natural buildings, and eat in an outdoor kitchen, participating in the co-op with members, residents, and work exchangers.  Expect to do ~2 cook shifts per week and participate in the co-op’s meetings and chores.

If you are interested in the position, please send a cover letter, a resume with relevant experience, and contact info for at least one reference to hello@dancingrabbit.org. I’m also happy to answer any questions!

Here is the full job description:

The Garden Manager position starts in April, with a required commitment of six months, at 15 hours per week. Position includes room and board and a monthly stipend of $250/month. If you choose to camp, the stipend is increased to $450/month. 

Garden Manager tasks:

• Manage a 13,000 sq ft organic vegetable garden to grow produce for on-site kitchens and program participants.
• Create and implement the season's growing plan, with consultation from experienced local gardeners. This includes figuring out seeds, starts, and succession planting throughout the growing season.
• Coordinate 1-5 volunteers in daily garden care tasks, leading multiple work sessions per week as appropriate through the changing season.  
• Plan ahead for work sessions, collecting necessary tools and materials.
• Explore and implement integrated pest management for each crop as needed.
• Take responsibility for delivering harvested produce to Belly World kitchen, program cooks or other kitchen co-ops. 
• Develop and maintain garden infrastructure and systems as needed, including tools, irrigation, compost bins, fencing, row cover, and seedling protection.
• Prepare neglected garden spaces for future productivity.
• Consult with local experienced gardeners as needed.
• Help with various community tasks, such as collecting firewood, path mulching, recycling, and invasive species management.
• Bonus: Take a lead role in preserving the harvest through canning, dehydrating, freezing and other preservation methods.