Farming and Gardening Instructor

Job Responsibilities

• Design and deliver curriculum and lesson plans with clear developmental progression
• Assess student abilities and tailor projects through daily field notes
• Develop individualized learning plans as needed
• Foster a positive, inclusive learning environment aligned with Meristem's culture
• Support onboarding of new students and staff
• Collaborate with colleagues on interdisciplinary educational offerings
• Teach additional program content as required

Garden & Land Management

• Plan, budget, and schedule seasonal planting and garden modifications
• Maintain garden spaces with a focus on sustainability and land conservation
• Perform planting, watering, fertilizing, pruning, and pest management
• Select appropriate plants for the local climate
• Maintain irrigation systems, tools, and storage areas
• Harvest and process produce for program use and donation
• Cook and process produce for program use and donation
• Coordinate with culinary and life skills teams to align planting with program needs

Operations & Collaboration

• Attend staff meetings, trainings, and check-ins
• Contribute to a professional growth plan with supervision
• Engage with parents and the broader community as requested
• Uphold and contribute to Meristem's organizational culture
• Support team operations, including coverage when needed
• Perform additional duties as assigned

Qualifications & Requirements

• Bachelor's degree - a must
• Minimum of 2 years' experience in an educational setting
• Experience working with neurodiverse populations
• 1-2 years of experience with similar participant groups or relevant background
• Familiarity with one or more of the following approaches: Transformative Movement Education, Ruskin Mill Therapeutic Craft Education, Waldorf Education - a plus

Benefits

• Medical plus $3k HRA to help offset medical costs
• Dental, Vision, and 401K
• Daily Lunch and Snacks provided

Pay

Salary: $25.00 per hour

Schedule

Monday-Friday 8:00 am - 5:00 pm, with occasional weekend flexibility

Physical Requirements

• The ability to lift and move up to 50 pounds
• The ability to move in uneven terrain on our campus as needed
• The stamina to lead a class in different temperate climates (i.e., summer heat and winter chill)