Farmer Training Coordinator

Full-time, year-round

About UFI

UFI is a mission-driven organization that strives to develop and advance urban farming, engage individuals in growing and harvesting, and build a healthy community. Our programs are community-centered and provide opportunities for all to experience and learn from urban agriculture.  From farm training programs, engagement with youth and seniors, to food delivery and education, UFI supports the diverse community in which it thrives.  Located in Greater Boston, our employees represent the wonderful and diverse city we live in. We are committed to considering candidates who represent and celebrate the rich multicultural community in which we serve.

UFI is seeking a Farmer Training Coordinator to collaborate on the coordination and implementation of the Farmer Training Program (FTP). The FTP is a hands-on learning initiative that combines classroom instruction, fieldwork, and mentorship and is designed to equip individuals with the knowledge and skills needed to become successful urban farmers.  The program provides a structured curriculum covering various aspects of urban agriculture, such as soil health, crop planning, and sustainable farming, while also exploring essential techniques such as seed starting and harvesting.  The salary range is $27.00 per hour - $30.00 per hour based on experience and background. 

Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

  • In collaboration with the Program Director, evaluate FTP delivery and effectiveness and revise curriculum as appropriate

  • Plan and manage daily training activities in coordination with the Program Director and Production Team, and collaborate with other staff to deliver hands-on learning and strengthen on-farm/off-farm educational programming

  • Support planning and logistics for classroom sessions, field training activities, independent projects, and extended learning opportunities

  • Manage consistent communications with participants/trainees (curriculum updates, schedules, assignments, Q&A/technical questions, volunteer opportunities, work locations, program updates, and special events)

  • Support delivery of classroom training and provide day-to-day guidance, supervision, and technical instruction to trainees during field training

  • Coordinate off-farm field trips and partner site logistics, including communication with hosts and internal staff

  • Conduct periodic trainee check-ins and evaluations in collaboration with the Program Director; identify support needs and follow-up actions

  • Support recruitment and marketing efforts for the FTP

  • Assist with selection of candidates for the field training cohort

  • Maintain communication with program alumni and provide technical assistance as requested by the Program Director

  • Assist in planning and delivery of volunteer group activities and special farm events

  • Support the Production Team with farm tasks as needed (greenhouse, field preparation, maintenance/repairs, farmstand support, seasonal field work, and season close-out)

  • Some evening and weekend work will be required

  • Other duties as assigned

Qualifications:

  • A minimum of 3 - 5 years of experience as a grower in a produce farm, including planting, growing, assessment, planning; and/or

  • A minimum of 3 - 5 years of experience in an education capacity, either hands-on training or classroom-based instruction, including curriculum building, measuring outcomes, and providing student and program assessments

  • Completion of UFI Farmer Training Program or similar program/qualification preferred

  • Valid driver’s license required

  • Knowledge of or familiarity with Boston neighborhoods strongly preferred (Mattapan, Dorchester, Roxbury)

  • Ability to coordinate with the members of the farmer training program, interface and build relationships with other farm members and the local community to facilitate positive outcomes

  • Strong organizational skills

  • Strong interpersonal skills

  • Have to be able to lift 50 pounds

  • Some weekend work required

 

To apply, please submit a resume and cover letter to jobs@urbanfarminginstitute.org.

You may also mail a resume to:

Urban Farming Institute

Attention: Hiring Manager

487 Norfolk Street

Mattapan, MA 02126

UFI is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. We prohibit discrimination and harassment of any kind based on race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, age, marital status, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. We encourage applicants from all backgrounds and experiences to apply.